Winter brings ice fishing to China's northeast

Ice fishing at Chagan Lake dates back to the Liao Dynasty (916-1125) and was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.The recent surge in tourism has breathed new life into the ancient practice.

Since the first seasonal haul on Dec 18, 2024, fishermen have landed several "red nets" — single catches exceeding 50,000 kilograms — which not only sparked cheers from spectators but also attracted millions of viewers through livestreaming.

During last year's snow season, Chagan Lake had 1.4 million visits, a remarkable year-on-year increase of 229.9 percent, generating record-breaking tourism revenue of 1.25 billion yuan ($173.87 million).

In December, China relaxed its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours, and this is expected to attract more international tourists to the ice fishing season.

The visa-free transit policy allows international visitors to explore beyond famous sites and experience new cultures, Raschid says, adding that his friends and family plan to join him in Northeast China for winter tourism.

At Lianhuan Lake in the Mongolian autonomous county of Dorbod, Heilongjiang, a crowd cheered as a plentiful catch was hauled in during the annual ice fishing event.