Shuangyu, Maritime trading post in Liuheng Island, China
Shuangyu was a former trading harbor located on Liuheng Island off the Zhejiang coast, featuring multiple natural harbors. The site provided direct access to East China Sea shipping routes and served as a hub for regional commerce.
The port rose to prominence starting in 1524 as a center for international trade operating beyond Ming dynasty regulations. Its destruction by imperial naval forces in 1548 marked the end of its trading operations.
Foreign merchants, especially Japanese traders, lived and worked alongside local Chinese families in this harbor community. Their presence reshaped daily commercial practices and introduced new goods and trading methods to the region.
The remains of the former harbor lie submerged near the shore and are only accessible under specific tidal conditions. Local maritime transportation services are necessary to reach this remote and challenging site.
The trade network connected Chinese silk merchants with Portuguese traders who exchanged silver for goods at this harbor. This arrangement was remarkable because it operated despite imperial restrictions on foreign commerce.
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