the guandi belief and customs constitute a vital component of southern fujian's folk religious culture. originating from the central plains, this belief system took root in southern fujian through localized adaptation and integration, eventually becoming a fundamental aspect of daily life for the local populace.
the widespread dissemination of guandi worship in southern fujian is inseparable from the region's distinctive cultural-ecological environment. its unique geographical position nurtured an exceptional maritime civilization. during the song and yuan dynasties, the rise of quanzhou port along with its thriving international trade, introduced abundant foreign cultural elements to southern fujian.