Digang village in Nanxun district, Huzhou, Zhejiang province, honored as a "Best Tourism Village" by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, buzzed with excitement on Jan 23 as it hosted a traditional fish-themed folk activity to welcome Spring Festival.

The event, featuring fish-catching activities, themed markets, and a lively street banquet, attracted enthusiastic crowds, bringing the ancient village to life.

Visitors donned waders to join locals in fish ponds, where laughter and splashes filled the air. Emel Aksoy, a tourist from France, said, "Although I didn't catch any fish, understanding the local customs and cultural depth is more important than the catch itself!"

The freshly caught fish symbolized a bountiful harvest in the new year, with some served at the communal feast.

A street feast serves a variety of delicious fish dishes to both visitors and local villagers. [Photo/Tide News]

Vibrant markets offered fresh fish, homemade dried fish, traditional pastries, and specialty agricultural goods.

The event culminated in a communal fish feast, where visitors and villagers shared freshly prepared dishes, fostering community spirit.

"This event aims to preserve culture, attract visitors, and invigorate local development," said Mo Haiping, Party chief of Digang village.

As a core area of the globally significant Mulberry-Dyke and Fish-Pond System, Digang village leverages its rich agricultural heritage to drive growth through cultural tourism.

The village received 6,000 visits on Jan 23 through this event, offering a boost to the local economy.