As the Spring Festival approaches, the coastal county of Xiangshan in east China’s Zhejiang Province comes alive with the glow of fish lanterns. These luminous creations, symbols of abundance and prosperity, reflect a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Rooted in the ancient Chinese saying “年年有余” (nián nián yǒu yú), meaning “May you have surplus year after year,” the fish lanterns embody the hopes of fishermen and residents for a bountiful and joyous new year. In Xiangshan, fish lanterns are more than decorative art; they are a tribute to the community’s seafaring heritage.
At the heart of this tradition is Bao Jiqin, a master craftsman now in his 80s. Born in the town of Shipu, Bao has dedicated decades to the art of making fish lanterns. Starting with carp lanterns in his youth, he expanded his designs after the late 1990s when Xiangshan held its first Fishing Season Festival, marking the end of the fishing moratorium. His repertoire now includes yellow croakers, cuttlefish, and other marine life, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
“I wanted my lanterns to capture the true essence of the sea creatures,” Bao explains. He has collected numerous books and materials on marine life to ensure his lanterns accurately represent the shapes and behaviors of real fish.
Every year, on the 14th day of the first lunar month, Xiangshan County hosts a vibrant parade. Locals hold their illuminated fish lanterns high as they walk through the streets, transforming the town into a sea of lights. The parade not only celebrates the new year but also strengthens community bonds and preserves a cherished cultural heritage.
The glowing fish lanterns of Xiangshan serve as a beacon, illuminating the enduring legacy of craftsmanship and the collective hopes for prosperity in the coming year.
Reference(s):
Legacy Trails: Illuminating Spring Festival with fish lanterns
cgtn.com
