It not only includes exhibitions but also opportunities for education and academic research.
Exhibits include maps of the route of Zheng's voyages and the Da Ming Hun Yi Tu (World Map of the Ming Dynasty) drawn in 1389. It is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved maps of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). There are also ancient shipslogs meticulously recording daily events.
A theater with a 270-degree surround-screen shows an eight-minute film about navigation.
For those who have always wanted to be great helmsmen, there's navigation simulator on the second level where people can experience sailing a ship, feel the wind and the rolling deck.
The Maritime and Navy Hall exhibits new technologies and achievements of China's maritime industry. It aims to create an international maritime exchange platform to enhance international shipping contact.
In the Hall of Seafarers, visitors can learn how sailors lived, ate, dressed, tattooed themselves and passed the time aboard ship.
Visitors can also learn how to tie knots.
In the Children's Center, kids put on costumes of mariners and pirates and have their pictures taken.
(Source: Shanghai Daily)
