Pop Japan

Fishing isnt just a livelihood activity. It is also an art.

A part of the Japanese tradition for already 1300 years, ukai or cormorant fishing has become a custom in Gifu Prefecture. Held for five months in a year, ukai is an activity wherein cormorants (aquatic birds) and fishermen will be roaming on Nagare River in the evening, aiming to catch ayu, or sweet fish.

The fishing tradition has been an instant attraction for visitors of the protected river. In fact, famous personalities like poet Matsuo Basho and comedian Charlie Chaplin once came to Nagare River to watch see cormorant fishing.

Tags: Art, fishing, Nagare River, Gifu, cormorant, ukai, tradition, cormorant fishing