At the mouth of the Yellow River, where the waters meet the sea, lies Hongguang New Village—a place where fishermen have cast their nets for generations. Amidst the rapid pace of digital transformation, this village is finding new ways to keep its maritime traditions alive.
The residents of Hongguang New Village are no strangers to the challenges of a changing world. With smartphones in hand, young fishermen now navigate the tides using GPS and check weather updates in real-time. “Technology has made the sea less unpredictable,” says Liu Wei, a third-generation fisherman. “We can plan our trips better and stay connected with our families.”
Digital platforms have also opened new markets. Fishermen live-stream their catches to potential buyers across the country, bringing fresh seafood from net to table faster than ever before. E-commerce apps allow them to sell directly, cutting out middlemen and boosting their incomes. “We used to rely on wholesalers,” explains Zhang Ning, another local fisherman. “Now, we have customers from far away who appreciate our fresh catch.”
While embracing technology, the community remains rooted in its traditions. Festivals honoring the sea are still celebrated, and elders pass down fishing techniques to the younger generation. The fusion of old and new is a source of pride for the villagers. “We are modern fishermen with ancient souls,” smiles Liu Wei.
Hongguang New Village is just one of many settlements along the Yellow River adapting to the digital era. Their story reflects a broader trend of rural communities in the Global South finding innovative ways to preserve their heritage while navigating the waves of change.
