Winter fishing provides a chill community spectacle

SHENYANG — On the frozen expanse of Wolong Lake in Northeast China's Liaoning province, the calls of fisherman Dong Lijun motivate his team to haul up a massive net teeming with carp.

Among the spectators was Renat Lusupov, a Russian social media blogger, who captured the scene with his camera.

"In Russia, we also have winter fishing traditions, but they're small-scale events with fishing rods. The winter fishing on Wolong Lake feels more like a grand communal ritual. It is a real showcase of the power of teamwork," he said.

It was not long before Lusupov had edited his footage and shared this unique cultural experience with his friends overseas.

As winter settles in, China's rich "cold resources" are heating up inbound tourism. The expansion of China's visa-free travel policies, including the recent extension of transit visa-free stays to 240 hours and the increase of eligible ports of entry to 60, has opened the door for more international travelers to visit the country.

Among the seasonal highlights, winter fishing stands out, captivating foreign visitors with its distinct charm. Kicking off on Jan 11 and slated to run to the middle of next month, the 10th Wolong Lake Winter Fishing Festival is welcoming foreign tourists eager to experience the age-old tradition.

Lusupov arrived early on the frozen lake, posing with a 10-kilogram fish while sharing his plans to cook it in a hearty stew.

The tradition of winter fishing on Wolong Lake dates back to the Liao (907-1125) and Jin (1115-1234) dynasties when it was first celebrated for its remarkable spectacle. According to fisherman Dong, the process involves a series of intricate steps, including entering the lake, cutting through the ice, laying the nets, pulling them in, and finally, reaping the bounty.