Qingdao West Coast New Area kicks off fishing season with traditional ceremony

The Yellow and Bohai seas welcomed the end of the four-month fishing moratorium on Sept 1, and Jimiya Harbor in Qingdao West Coast New Area witnessed a flurry of activity as thousands of fishing boats set sail on the open sea in pursuit of a plentiful catch.

Fishing boats set sail in hopes of a plentiful catch on the Yellow and Bohai seas. [Photo/IC]

In a festive spirit, Qingdao West Coast New Area organized a celebratory event by Lingshan Bay, which included a traditional sea worship folk ceremony to mark the commencement of the fishing season.

The ceremony is a rich cultural display, featuring melodious ancient music and rhythmic drumming that accompanied the chief officiant in reciting the sea-praying text. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]

Residents bring home the freshest catch, enjoying the autumn seafood harvest. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]

The event was a vibrant affair, with singing performances by local vocalists and lively lion dance performances adding to the festive atmosphere. Fishermen representatives participated in the ceremony, offering grains as a symbolic gesture, praying for good weather and an abundant haul from the sea.