❄️ Each January, Chagan Lake in northeast China transforms into a frozen stage for a centuries-old ice fishing tradition. Local fishermen carve holes in the 50cm-thick ice, set up hand-carved nets, and haul in thousands of fish — it’s as epic as it sounds!
🎣 The star moment? The season’s first catch. This year, it sold for a staggering 1,699,999 yuan (about $243,000), making headlines and proving that tradition still packs big value.
🌊 Nestled in Jilin Province, Chagan Lake ranks among China’s top freshwater lakes. Its winter fishing ritual, honored as a national intangible cultural heritage, combines techniques passed down through centuries, from lotus-like nets to community-driven hauls.
🌏 For sea- and sun-lovers from South Asia to Southeast Asia, this ice harvest is a cool counterpoint to tropical beaches. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply hunting for culture gems, Chagan Lake’s winter spectacle is pure magic. Pack your warmest gear! 🧣
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
