The name of the ancient trade route that connected China to the West is the Silk Road. This extensive network of trade routes facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture between the East and West, linking China with regions in Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The Silk Road was instrumental in the introduction of commodities like silk, spices, and precious metals, as well as the spread of religions such as Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity. Its influence spanned centuries, significantly shaping commerce, culture, and the interconnectedness of civilizations.