Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi is considered to be the outcome of the Indo-Chinese trade, which was popular during the reign of Kublai Khan. Zheng He, the Chinese explorer was the introducer of these beautiful and large nets in India. Commonly known as Cheenavala, these Chinese Fishing Nets is unique to Cochin and dates back to the 1350 - 1450 AD period.

The coastal region and the beaches along the Fort Kochi and Vypeen are scattered with the Chinese Fishing Nets; however the best of these can be seen at the ‘Vasco Da Gama Square’. These areas are situated almost 14kms away from the main city. The Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi are the livelihood for the numerous fishermen residing along the coastal regions of Cochin. These are built with bamboo poles and teak wood, hereby increasing there durability. The Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi are suspended in the air all along the beaches, giving them the shape of huge hammocks. Part of the Chinese Fishing Nets, almost twenty meters or more than that, is stretched towards the sea. Approximately six fishermen are required to operate these ten meters high Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi. Depending on the size and width the Chinese Fishing Nets are used in different depth of water.

The natives of Cochin have the perfect aptitude to handle these delicately and skillfully designed Chinese Fishing Nets. This unique style of catching fishes and other aquatic creatures is renowned all around the country as well the world. People visiting Kerala make it a point to visit Cochin to witness the beautiful beaches adorned by the antique Chinese Fishing Nets. Apart from its attractive shape, size and elegance, which augment its photogenic characteristics; these are the chief means to earn the livelihood for the fishermen as well. Either the catches are sold at the location or market places, depending on the requirements. With increase in economic activities, tourism in Cochin is also gaining in prominence with examples like Chinese Fishing Nets attracting the attention of visitors in a big way.