This January, Bosten Lake in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is serving up icy adventures with its annual winter fishing festival! Local fishermen are drilling through thick ice to cast their first nets of 2026, continuing a tradition that turns subzero temperatures into a celebration of culture and community 🎣❄️.
Known as China's largest inland freshwater lake, Bosten Lake produced 4,000 tonnes of premium fish in 2025 through eco-friendly 'catch large, release small' practices. But this festival isn't just about fish—it's a full winter wonderland experience! Visitors this week are zooming across frozen waters in ice bumper cars, slurping steaming hotpot on glittering ice tables, and cheering as fresh catches leap from frosty nets.
Tourism officials say the event has become a must-see for winter travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences mixed with Insta-worthy snowy fun. Pro tip: Don't miss the sunset sledding sessions—they're pure magic ✨!
