The houseboat in pre-modern China: Technology and culture in mobility history

Abstract

This exploration of the history of the houseboat in China joins three investigative approaches: the context of transport systems, the technological perspective and transformations in cultural preferences. In a long-durational survey, it follows the boat as a means of transport but rarely as a means of travel from antiquity to about the third century. In the following centuries, boats became increasingly common, but they held little prestige compared to the riding horse or the carriage. In the tenth century, houseboats appear as lavish and fashionable means of elite travel, and until the eve of industrialisation remained the preferred mode for all who could afford them. The analysis traces gradual processes in seemingly sudden events and finds that stability may result from upholding traditions across historical ruptures.