As the Spring Festival approaches, the coastal county of Xiangshan in Ningbo City, east China’s Zhejiang Province, comes alive with vibrant traditions. Among them, the crafting of fish lanterns stands out as a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and renewal.
Rooted in the ancient Chinese saying “年年有余” (nián nián yǒu yú), meaning “May you have surplus year after year,” these luminous creations embody the hopes of fishermen for a bountiful and joyous new year.
For generations, the art of making fish lanterns has been passed down in Xiangshan. To the residents, these lanterns are not merely decorative pieces but a tribute to their seafaring heritage and a reflection of their wishes for prosperity.
One of the master craftsmen keeping this tradition alive is 80-year-old Bao Jiqin. Born and raised in the town of Shipu in Xiangshan, Bao has dedicated decades to perfecting the craft of lantern-making. His passion for drawing since childhood led him to start making carp lanterns at a young age.
After the late 1990s, when Xiangshan held its first Fishing Season Festival—a celebration marking the start of a new fishing season following the fishing moratorium—Bao expanded his designs to include a variety of marine life such as yellow croakers and cuttlefish. To ensure his lanterns accurately capture the appearance of real fish, he has collected numerous books and materials on marine life, studying fish shapes and behaviors meticulously.
Every year, on the 14th day of the first lunar month, Xiangshan County hosts a grand parade. Locals hold fish lanterns high as they walk through the streets, illuminating the night and celebrating the start of the new year. The glow of the lanterns not only lights up the streets but also warms the hearts of the community, bringing people together in a shared celebration of culture and heritage.
The tradition of fish lanterns in Xiangshan is more than an artistic expression; it’s a living legacy that connects the past with the present. It reflects the community’s respect for nature and their reliance on the sea, reinforcing the cultural fabric that defines the region.
As the glow of the fish lanterns dances through the streets, it carries with it the hopes and blessings for the year ahead, ensuring that the legacy of craftsmanship and tradition shines brightly for future generations.
Reference(s):
Legacy Trails: Illuminating Spring Festival with fish lanterns
cgtn.com
