Shanghai Daily news

(Map: CRIENGLISH.com)

The Zheng He Ocean Voyages Exhibition and International Marine Expo will visit Shanghai for only a week next year when it runs from July 8-14.
The exhibition celebrates the 600th anniversary of the first voyage by Chinese admiral Zheng He to other territories in 1405. In addition, it will document China's navigation history and work in marine science.
The show in Shanghai Exhibition Center will cover an area of 25,000 square meters, consisting of five exhibits introducing the history of Zheng's voyages. Other exhibits will chronicle China's navigation skills and knowledge of marine, oceans, ports and shipbuilding.
Zheng, a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) official who was rewarded command of the national fleet by the emperor, visited 37 countries during his 28-year navy career.
He traveled to places throughout the South Pacific, Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf and distant Africa in seven voyages. He died on a return journey in 1433.
Zheng, with a fleet of at least 317 ships and 37,000 men at his command, never seized land or treasure from abroad.
"We commemorate him for his life-long efforts to promote openness of his country and exchanges among nations," said Yao Mingde, director of the expo's organizing committee.
Part of the exhibits will be kept for establishing an ocean museum in the city.