Experience the Magic of Winter: Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival in Songyuan, China

Published on January 8, 2026

Songyuan City, Jilin Province, is set to host the 24th Chagan Lake Fishing and Hunting Cultural Tourism Festival, which will kick off on January 8, 2026. This festival marks the return of one of northeast China’s most iconic winter events, blending tradition, nature, and cultural celebration in a picturesque setting. Known for its long history, Chagan Lake’s winter fishing tradition has been practiced for over a thousand years and is celebrated as a national-level intangible cultural heritage.

As Chagan Lake comes alive with festivities, visitors will have the chance to witness hand-cut ice fishing firsthand, as well as experience the historic horse-drawn winches that pull fishing nets from beneath the frozen lake’s surface. The festival is not only a celebration of this ancient tradition but also a unique opportunity to explore Songyuan and the surrounding area, attracting both domestic and international tourists to this beautiful part of Jilin Province.

A Longstanding Tradition of Ice Fishing

The Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival has become a cherished part of China’s winter tourism, drawing crowds eager to experience the time-honoured fishing practices that have been passed down through generations. The tradition of ice fishing at Chagan Lake dates back over a thousand years, making it one of the oldest and most unique cultural practices in China.

Visitors to the festival will have the chance to witness the traditional method of hand-cutting the ice, a process where fishermen use large chisels to carve holes in the thick winter ice. Once the holes are made, the horse-drawn winches are used to pull nets from the water, creating an authentic and visually stunning experience for attendees.

This fishing tradition is deeply rooted in the local culture of Songyuan City and Jilin Province, offering travelers a rare glimpse into China’s intangible cultural heritage. As one of the most unique winter events in China, the Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival provides a captivating way to learn about local customs and explore the region’s heritage.

New Energy: Ice and Snow Amusement Park

This year, the festival promises an enhanced experience with the addition of a 230,000-square-meter ice and snow amusement park, adding an exciting new dimension to the event. The park will feature more than 30 winter activities, catering to all ages and interests. This new attraction allows visitors to immerse themselves in the fun of winter sports, snow play, and traditional ice fishing while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

One of the park’s standout features is a 500-square-meter air-supported dome designed to serve as an ice-fishing camp, offering 100 fishing spots that bring guests even closer to the action. The dome is designed to provide an authentic winter fishing experience, while allowing visitors to fish in comfort. The amusement park can host up to 3,000 visitors at a time, ensuring there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the exciting activities on offer.

Alongside the ice fishing experiences, the park will include a range of other winter-themed attractions, such as sledding, snowboarding, and snow sculpture exhibitions, making it a perfect destination for families, adventure-seekers, and those simply looking to enjoy the magic of winter.

Celebrating the Winter Season in Songyuan

The Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival takes place during the cold winter months, just before the arrival of Spring Festival, one of China’s most important traditional holidays. This timing makes it a perfect stop for travelers looking to embrace the winter season and experience the beauty of northern China. In addition to ice fishing and the amusement park, visitors will also have the chance to enjoy traditional Chinese performances, including folk music, dance, and local crafts.

For those interested in exploring more of Jilin Province, Songyuan offers a range of natural attractions and cultural landmarks that provide a complete experience. The surrounding Chagan Lake area is known for its tranquil environment and scenic beauty, making it ideal for winter photography, nature walks, and relaxation in the peaceful countryside.

The event also draws attention to Songyuan’s tourism development, as the area works to promote cultural tourism and attract visitors to explore the rich natural landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites of the region.

How to Get to Chagan Lake

Songyuan is accessible by train and road from major cities such as Changchun, Harbin, and Beijing. Visitors can easily take the train to Songyuan and then reach Chagan Lake via public transport or taxis. For those traveling from further afield, the Changchun Longjia International Airport is the nearest airport, about an hour’s drive from Songyuan.

For travelers planning to attend the Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival, it’s advisable to book accommodations early, as the event draws large crowds and many of the local hotels fill up quickly during the busy festival period. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses in Songyuan City and near the lake.

A Winter Wonderland Awaiting Discovery

The Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival is more than just an opportunity to witness a time-honored tradition—it’s a celebration of winter, culture, and the stunning landscapes of Jilin Province. With its rich cultural heritage, modern winter attractions, and breathtaking natural beauty, this festival offers something for everyone, from families and adventurers to cultural explorers and photographers.

With its combination of tradition and new-age attractions, the Chagan Lake Ice Fishing Festival has firmly positioned itself as a standout event on China’s winter tourism calendar. For those looking for a unique and unforgettable winter getaway, the festival promises to deliver a magical experience unlike any other.