Imagine sailing across the Taiwan Straits in a handcrafted replica of a 15th-century treasure ship—sounds like a scene from a pirate movie, right? 🏴☠️ For Xu Lu, this is reality. Over the past decade, the adventurous shipbuilder has crossed the straits multiple times in vessels inspired by the legendary Ming Dynasty admiral Zheng He, blending history with modern-day exploration.
In 2025, ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival 🎏, Xu returned to Yuegang Port to kick off his most ambitious project yet: reconstructing one of Zheng He’s iconic treasure ships. These vessels once symbolized China’s maritime prowess, connecting cultures and trade routes from Asia to Africa. Xu’s mission? To revive that spirit of unity and curiosity—one plank at a time.
🌍 “These ships aren’t just relics—they’re bridges,” Xu shared. His voyages aim to spark dialogue between communities on both sides of the strait, celebrating shared heritage through craftsmanship and adventure. With every voyage, he’s rewriting history—literally—by proving ancient engineering can thrive in the 21st century.
For young travelers and history buffs, Xu’s story is a reminder that the past isn’t just in textbooks. It’s alive, waiting to be rediscovered. Who’s ready to set sail? ⚓✨
