Three Chinese fishery patrol ships engaged in a verbal confrontation with Japanese Coast Guard ships in waters near the Diaoyu Islands on Wednesday, fishery authorities said Thursday.

Chinese Yuzheng-202, Yuzheng-204 and Yuzheng-35001 patrol ships encountered with Japanese Coast Guard ships in waters near the Diaoyu Islands early Wednesday during a routine patrol, according to a statement from the East China Sea Fishery Bureau. The Chinese vessels have regrouped and are continuing to patrol the area.

The Yuzheng-202, Yuzheng-204 and Yuzheng-35001 patrol ships encountered the Japanese vessels early Wednesday during a routine patrol, according to a statement from the East China Sea Fishery Bureau.

The Chinese vessels arrived at about 2 a.m. The Japanese ships were spotted at 9:45 a.m., when the Yuzheng-204 sent administrative staff to a Chinese fishing boat anchored nearby to conduct a safety inspection.

"The Diaoyu Islands and its affiliated islets have been part of Chinese territory since ancient times. Our fishery patrol ships are conducting normal duties in protecting fishery activity in Chinese waters. Please do not interfere and leave immediately," the Chinese ships said via radio when asked by the Japanese ships to leave the area.

The Chinese vessels have regrouped and are continuing to patrol the area.

The China Fishery Administration Bureau has included areas near the Diaoyu Islands as part of regular patrols since 2010.

Chinese fishermen have welcomed the patrols and hope to receive protection from the ships while fishing in the area, the statement said.