Island in spotlight as it vies for UNESCO recognition

As Gulangyu Island, also known as the "garden upon the sea", vies to join the ranks of World Culture Heritage Sites, the popular tourist destination in Xiamen, Fujian province is once again in the limelight.

The island that showcases distinct and valuable elements of culture will contend for the one Chinese slot in 2016.

The islet that spans 1.88 square kilometers and boasts a 1,000-year history is not only a retro, photogenic scenic spot that appealed to 35 million tourists in 2012.