Blue skies in south while North China suffers smog

While China's northern regions continue to struggle with persistent heavy air pollution, the air quality in the southern coastal city of Xiamen is among the best in the nation, according to official monitoring data.

In addition to the city's clean air, its blue seas, green mountains and pleasant weather also add to the allure of this popular tourist destination, which is known for such attractions as Gulangyu Island and South Putuo Temple, said Jin Jianming, a local environmental scientist.