Hey fam, ever heard of Ulungur Lake, aka Fuhai – the Lake of Blessings? Nestled in Altay Prefecture in the Chinese mainland’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, this icy wonderland goes next-level every winter. 🌨️❄️
Since 2008, the Fuhai Winter Fishing Festival has drawn crowds to watch fishermen hack through thick sheets of ice, waiting for that triumphant first catch. In 2025, the festival hit its 18th lap, and on January 18, when the sun peeked over the horizon, second-generation fisherman Zhang Haijiang – now the Yubatou (lead fisherman) – let out a cheer as the first fish burst through the ice. 🎉🐟
Zhang’s story is as deep as the lake itself. He grew up chasing his dad on the ice, learning every trick and tool. Now, he carries on the tradition, blending ancestral know-how with new gear. It’s not just a festival; it’s a promise to keep Ulungur Lake thriving for generations. 🌱✨
Local vibes are off the charts: colorful stalls selling steaming mutton skewers, TikTok-worthy ice sculptures, and beats from live DJs turning the frozen plains into a party. Whether you’re here for the hunt, the gram-worthy pics, or the community spirit, Fuhai’s festival has you covered. 📸🥳
So if you’re craving a winter adventure that mixes culture, nature, and a pinch of adrenaline, mark your calendar for next January and head to Ulungur. After all, who wouldn't want to fish in the Lake of Blessings? 😉
Reference(s):
Xinjiang Dawn to Dusk | Weishi: Ulungur's ice fishing spectacle
cgtn.com
