Winter at Ulungur Lake isn’t just about frosty landscapes – it’s *the* season for a centuries-old cultural spectacle! ❄️ The annual Winter Fishing Festival launched this week in Xinjiang’s Altay region, where ice-cutters and fishers brave subzero temps to harvest Ulungur’s famed cold-water fish. 🐟 Why now? The freezing waters make the fish extra tender – locals swear it’s nature’s perfect marinade!
Hundreds gathered January 20 to watch teams drill through meter-thick ice, their nets pulling up wriggling treasures. But the real showstopper? The “First Catch Auction,” where a golden-scaled carp symbolizing prosperity sold for record bids. 💰 “This fish carries our hopes for a lucky year,” shared a veteran fisher bundled in traditional gear.
Beyond the catch, the festival serves up Uygur heritage through folk dances, ice sculptures, and steaming bowls of fish stew – a tasty reminder of how communities thrive even in Earth’s chilliest corners. 🌍✨ Whether you’re a foodie, culture buff, or just love winter magic, this is one icy tradition that’s definitely *reel* news!
