Ukai is an ancient style of fishing involving cormorants, a big fire, and many “ayu”. Here is Masahiko-san, one of the few cormorant-fishing masters left in Gifu. They use to fish at night on the Nagara river, right below Gifu castle, and catch mostly Ayus (also called sweetfish), a very local fish usually eaten simply grilled. Ukai today is mostly a touristic activity. When the boats fish on the river, swarms of little boats line up on the river, filled with people coming to enjoy a really beautiful moment.
This week’s pictures will mostly focus on this activity, while Gonzague finishes stabilizing the wonderful 4K video he recorded of that wonderful day.
Gear used: Fujifilm X-T2 + Mitakon 35mm f/0.95
