During the Song Dynasty around 1100, the construction of large junks revolutionized maritime trade in China. These multi-masted vessels featured watertight compartments, allowing for safer and more efficient long-distance voyages. This innovation facilitated increased trade with Southeast Asia and beyond, significantly impacting the economy and cultural exchange during this prosperous period.

The construction of large junks during the Song Dynasty inspired poetry that celebrated maritime exploration and the grandeur of naval fleets. Poets like Su Shi wrote evocatively about the ocean's vastness and the adventures of seafarers, intertwining themes of nature and human endeavor.