Fish lanterns are seen everywhere in Shipu town during the Spring Festival. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

Fish-shaped lanterns were seen everywhere in Shipu ancient town in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province during the Spring Festival holiday, which fell from Jan 21 to 28 this year.

As an old saying goes, when the fish-shaped lanterns are on in Shipu ancient town, it's time for fishermen to return home for the Spring Festival. This local tradition to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year has become a major tourism draw.

Fish lanterns were an important component of folk customs in Shipu, reflecting local fishermen's sincere hopes for good weather and bumper catches in the New Year. When Spring Festival approaches, people will hang fish lanterns in front of their houses, which spruce up the town with a colorful and festive touch.

Fish lantern dance is also a distinctive custom in Shipu. Accompanied by sonorous drum beats, people will cruise along the streets and shake their fish lanterns up and down from side to side, extending their wishes for a peaceful and affluent New Year.