Imagine sailing back in time… Xu Lu, a passionate shipbuilder from the Chinese mainland, has spent the last decade crafting life‐size replicas of the great treasure ships commanded by Ming Dynasty admiral Zheng He. His workshop? A humble boatyard at Yuegang Port on the Fujian coast.
Over the years, Xu Lu’s voyages have taken him across the Taiwan Strait again and again, each journey fueled by curiosity and respect for maritime heritage. ⚓️ Every voyage in his handcrafted replica is a tribute to Zheng He’s legendary expeditions in the 15th century, when vast fleets sailed to Asia, Africa, and beyond.
In 2025, on the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival, Xu Lu’s latest project began: rebuilding one of Zheng He’s treasure ships from the keel up. Surrounded by piles of teak and local hardwood, his team measures and carves each plank by hand. It’s a delicate dance of tradition and modern engineering, blending ancient shipbuilding techniques with 21st-century tools. 🔨🛠️
"When I first saw the historical records of Zheng He’s fleet, I was hooked," Xu Lu says, wiping sweat from his brow. "I wanted to feel the same wind in my sails."
The process is no small feat. Each replica stretches over 100 meters long, making it one of the largest wooden vessels ever attempted. Xu Lu studies old blueprints, consults maritime archaeologists, and even uses computer modeling to ensure the ship’s stability. Yet, the heart of the project remains rooted in age-old craftsmanship: hand-carved figureheads, intricate dragon motifs, and a hull designed to glide through waters like a flying dragon.
For young professionals and adventurers alike, Xu Lu’s story is a reminder that history isn’t just something we read about—it’s something we can experience. From university researchers documenting the construction to travel enthusiasts planning their next cultural dive, this project bridges cultures and centuries. 🌏✨
When the finished treasure ship finally sets sail from Yuegang Port, it won’t just be a ship; it will be a floating monument to human curiosity, resilience, and the timeless call of the open sea. And for Xu Lu, it’s proof that one person’s passion can keep history alive.
Stay tuned as the ship nears its launch—this is one voyage you won’t want to miss! 🚢
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
