The "海上丝绸之路" (Maritime Silk Road) was an ancient trade route that connected China with various regions across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. It facilitated the exchange of goods such as silk, spices, and precious metals, promoting cultural and economic interactions between different civilizations. This maritime route was crucial for the spread of ideas, technology, and religion, including Buddhism and Islam. Major ports along the route included Quanzhou and Canton in China, as well as Malacca and Hormuz in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, respectively.