Ice Drills & Fish Feasts: Chagan Lake’s Frozen Spectacle
As 2025 winds down, Chagan Lake in Jilin Province transforms into a winter wonderland where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Fishermen’s rhythmic chants cut through the -20°C air as ‘red nets’ haul up silver-scaled treasures from beneath meter-thick ice 🧊.
From Lake to Plate
Watch steaming fish feasts cook beside the ice holes – a sensory overload of sizzling oil and Uygur-style spices. Local vendors package catches at lightning speed, while livestreamers broadcast the action to 15M+ viewers globally 📱🌍.
More Than a Catch
This UNESCO-noted tradition dates back 1,000+ years to the Liao Dynasty. ‘It’s our cultural heartbeat,’ says third-generation fisher Li Wei, 28. Pro tip: Try the ‘fish-jumping-into-pot’ experience – instant TikTok gold! 🎥
With direct high-speed rail from Beijing (6.5 hours), this icy carnival blends heritage with Gen-Z energy. Pack your thermals! ❄️
