Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of the "Genglu Book," a traditional navigation guide essential for sailors in the South China Sea, emphasizing its cultural heritage and the efforts of individuals to preserve this knowledge for future generations [3][10][20]. Group 1: Cultural Heritage - The "Genglu Book" is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage since 2008, serving as a vital navigation guide for sailors [3]. - The museum dedicated to the "Genglu Book" in Qionghai City showcases the historical importance of this navigation tool and its role in maritime culture [4][7]. Group 2: Personal Stories - Wang Zhenzhong, a descendant of a family of sailors, has taken on the responsibility of preserving and promoting the "Genglu Book" through the establishment of a museum [10][15]. - The museum's creation was inspired by a call from Wang Zhenzhong's grandfather, highlighting the personal connection and familial legacy tied to the navigation practices [13][27]. Group 3: Educational Efforts - The museum has become a hub for educating visitors about the maritime history and navigation techniques of the South China Sea, with Wang Zhenzhong and his father actively engaging with tourists [19][28]. - The importance of making the "Genglu Book" accessible to younger generations is emphasized, ensuring that the stories and knowledge of the sea are not forgotten [15][24].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the South China Sea as a maritime civilization hub, showcasing archaeological findings that reflect China's ancient maritime trade routes and cultural exchanges with the world [1]. Group 1: Archaeological Discoveries - The National Cultural Heritage Administration is conducting deep-sea archaeological investigations on the Northwest Slope of the South China Sea, with over 900 artifacts extracted from two shipwreck sites, marking a significant advancement in underwater archaeology in China [7]. - A total of 103 nationally protected cultural heritage sites have been identified in Sansha, covering various historical periods including Tang, Song, Ming, Qing, and modern times [1][9]. - The discovery of the "Genglu Book," an ancient navigational text, has been pivotal in understanding the maritime navigation practices of ancient Chinese seafarers, with approximately 30 existing copies identified [5]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - The Coral Stone House on Zhao Shu Island, constructed by local fishermen using coral stones, serves as a small museum that preserves the maritime heritage and navigational history of the region [3]. - Ganquan Island, known for its freshwater well, played a crucial role as a supply station for ships during the Tang and Song dynasties, supporting the sustained operation of maritime trade routes in the South China Sea [11]. - The archaeological findings, including pottery and tools from the Tang and Song periods, indicate that Ganquan Island was a vital replenishment point for maritime activities, further emphasizing the island's historical importance [11].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance and cultural heritage of the "Genglu Book," a navigational manual used by Hainan fishermen, which has been recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage since 2008 [4][8]. Group 1: Historical Context - The waters around Sansha City in Hainan have been historically known as dangerous areas along the ancient Maritime Silk Road, where fishermen have navigated using traditional knowledge passed down through generations [2]. - The "Genglu Book" serves as an essential navigational tool for fishermen, documenting routes and experiences, and is crucial for maritime trade and cultural exchange with Southeast Asia [4][8]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - The Genglu Book is not only a fishing guide but also a record of trade routes to countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, showcasing the adventurous spirit and openness of Hainan fishermen [8][9]. - The museum dedicated to the Genglu Book in Qionghai City has become a popular tourist destination, referred to as the "Tanmeng Story Museum," reflecting the local cultural pride and historical significance of maritime activities [4][6]. Group 3: Preservation Efforts - The China (Hainan) Nanhai Museum is actively involved in the preservation and research of the Genglu Book, conducting field studies and collecting artifacts to ensure the continuity of this cultural heritage [11][13]. - The museum collaborates with local fishermen to restore and donate original manuscripts, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the maritime culture and history among the community [13].