Chinese Fuchuan (Merchant Ship)

Timeline

1. 1000–1200Quanzhou · FujianWith the flourishing of Song maritime trade offices, the fuchuan, with deep holds, multiple masts, and watertight compartments, became the mainstream merchant ship, sailing between South China Sea states and Indian Ocean ports.
2. 1265–1270Guangzhou · GuangdongFrom the late Southern Song to early Yuan, fuchuan merchant fleets remained active at Guangzhou, Quanzhou, and other ports, carrying porcelain, silk, and spices, while the Yuan court continued using the maritime trade office system to manage overseas trade.
3. 1400–1430Longjiang, Nanjing · JiangsuMing treasure ships and other large fuchuan were built at the Longjiang Treasure Ship Yard, inheriting Song-Yuan merchant ship watertight bulkhead and sail rigging technology, and were used for Zheng He's fleet voyages.