Yangshuo: Cormorant Fishing —A Living Tradition You Can Experience
- anywherechina020
- 10h
- 2 min read
When people think of Yangshuo, they often picture the dramatic karst peaks rising above the Li River, or the tranquil bamboo rafts drifting downstream. But hidden within this postcard landscape lies one of China’s oldest and most fascinating traditions—cormorant fishing.
What Is Cormorant Fishing?
Cormorant fishing has been practiced in southern China for more than a thousand years. Local fishermen train cormorant birds to dive into the river, skillfully catching fish in their beaks. A small ring around the bird’s neck prevents them from swallowing larger fish, which are instead brought back to the fisherman. It’s a unique partnership between man and bird, built on trust, patience, and tradition.
Your Experience on the Li River
Today, visitors to Yangshuo can do more than just watch this heritage from the riverbank—you can join it. Step onto a bamboo raft and spend nearly one hour alongside local fishermen as their cormorants glide into the moonlit waters. Under the glow of lanterns, the Li River becomes a stage where culture and nature merge in the most mesmerizing way.
Practical Details
Duration: About 1 hour on the Li River
Price: $30 per person
Includes: Bamboo raft ride, close interaction with fishermen, and the chance to witness cormorants fishing right before your eyes.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Cormorant fishing is more than entertainment—it is a living tradition passed down through generations. Experiencing it in Yangshuo is like stepping into a story where history, nature, and local life intertwine. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, photographer, or simply a curious traveler, this experience will be a highlight of your journey in China.
Don’t just visit Yangshuo—live its traditions.
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