A grand sea sacrifice ceremony is held in Xiangshan county of Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province, on Sept 15, 2019. [Photo/VCG]

The "sea sacrifice ceremony" has a history of over 1,000 years, when worshipers came from nearby villages and recreated traditional folk worship rituals.

Before sailing, fishermen would worship the Chinese patron Goddess Matsu, who is said to protect seafarers, to pray for safety and good harvest. Since the adoption of the midsummer moratorium system, the custom has become even more important to fishermen. 

Now, the sea sacrifice ceremony has become one of the most special cultural activities held during the Fishing Festival in Xiangshan.