Under a canopy of stars, the fishermen of Tanmen set sail into the vast expanse of the South China Sea. But unlike modern sailors, they didn’t rely on GPS or advanced navigation tools. Instead, their guide was the ‘Genglubu’, an ancient navigation manual passed down through generations.
Li Wei, a seasoned fisherman from Tanmen, shares tales of his ancestors who braved the unpredictable seas during the Age of Sail. “My great-grandfather taught me how they used the ‘Genglubu’ to read the winds, currents, and stars,” Li recalls with pride. “It wasn’t just a book; it was our compass and our connection to the sea.”
The ‘Genglubu’, which translates to “Route Book,” is a compilation of maritime experiences, detailing sailing directions, hidden reefs, and safe harbors. It was instrumental for Chinese sailors in navigating the intricate waterways of the South China Sea long before modern technology existed.
“Each page tells a story,” Li says. “It reminds us of where we come from and the wisdom our ancestors possessed.”
Today, while technology has transformed navigation, the legacy of the ‘Genglubu’ lives on in Tanmen. Fishermen like Li continue to honor their heritage, sharing these ancient practices with younger generations to keep the tradition alive.
