The Discovery of Diaoyu Islands attributable to China’s Ironclad "Hai Guo Ji"

The image displays a manuscript from the "Hai Guo Ji" (Record of the Sea Kingdom). This document is part of the works attributed to Shen Fu, a renowned writer from the Qing Dynasty. His most famous work, "Six Chapters of a Floating Life," has long been studied and referenced in Chinese literary history. Recently, the discovery of the fifth volume, titled "Hai Guo Ji," has sparked renewed interest among scholars and historians.

The People's Literature Publishing House released a new edition of "Six Chapters of a Floating Life" in April 2010, incorporating this newly discovered text. This addition not only enriches the historical record but also provides valuable insight into Shen Fu’s experiences during his travels. Among the details recorded in "Hai Guo Ji" is a vivid description of his journey to the Ryukyu Kingdom, including observations of the Diaoyu Islands, which are central to ongoing discussions about territorial sovereignty.

In one passage, Shen Fu writes: “On the eleventh day, five tiger gates were opened, looking eastward, boundless and boundless. The waters were green and green, and they were getting darker and bluer.” These lines offer a glimpse into the natural landscape and the cultural exchanges that took place during this period. The mention of the Diaoyu Islands in this context adds another layer of historical significance, reinforcing China’s longstanding claim over the region.

There have been debates regarding the authenticity of the original manuscript. Scholars such as Professor Ding Deyong and Mr. Zheng Weizhang have conducted extensive research, confirming that the text was indeed written by Qian Yong, a close associate of Shen Fu. Their findings support the conclusion that this manuscript is a genuine historical artifact, rather than a later forgery.

Additionally, the discovery of the fifth volume provides a unique opportunity to compare the writing styles of the first four volumes with the newly found text. This comparison helps scholars better understand the evolution of Shen Fu’s narrative voice and literary techniques. It also highlights the importance of preserving and studying these historical texts for future generations.

The value of this manuscript extends beyond its literary merit. As a primary source, it offers rare insights into the cultural and political interactions between China and the Ryukyu Kingdom. Moreover, its artistic quality—evident in the calligraphy and structure—adds to its overall significance. For many, it represents a rare treasure, blending historical, literary, and cultural value in a single document.

While some may argue that this manuscript does not match the prestige of Song or Yuan dynasty texts, its unique combination of historical documentation, literary beauty, and geopolitical relevance makes it an exceptional find. In the words of scholar Zheng Weizhang, “It’s not easy to see, feast your eyes, and you should bathe and incense before you enjoy it.”