On May 16, 25 volunteers, local residents, and expats visited a museum dedicated to the traditions of the Tanka people in Yantian and took part in a workshop on making Tanka fish tie New Year pictures.

Visitors listen to explanations at the Tanka Cultural Museum. Photos courtesy of the event organizers

At the Tanka Cultural Museum, housed in the Yantian Modern Industry Service Center complex, visitors examined small fishing boats, utensils, and fishing tools used by the Tanka people, observed historical photos and records, and learned about Tanka customs. Unlike many Han people, who traditionally dress their brides in red, Tanka brides wear azure tops and dark blue skirts during their weddings — colors that echo the ocean. However, they also carry a red parasol and wear a red headdress with gold ornaments.

The group also experienced Tanka fish tie prints, a craft that was added to the Yantian District cultural heritage list in 2024. As a form of New Year picture featuring fish patterns, Tanka fish tie prints were often displayed inside the cabins of fishing boats, carrying wishes for safety and a bountiful harvest.

Visitors make Tanka fish tie prints.

Early fish tie pictures were made from woodprints. Later, fishermen used real fish to create prints. Nowadays, craftsmen have refined the technique and use silicone fish molds to produce the patterns.

To make a fish tie print, one simply needs to apply layers of yellow, brownish red, and black paint to the fish mold, then paint black spots on the side of the mold before pressing it onto paper. The final step is to add an "eye" to the print.

The event, organized by the Yantian District Foreign Affairs Bureau and Haiyun Community Service Center, helped expats integrate into local life and facilitated cultural exchanges between locals and international friends.

Participants pose for a group photo.