From the perspective of transknowletology, this paper explores van Gulik’s English translation of Chinese classics and its impact on knowledge production, which is of great practical significance for promoting the international dissemination of local knowledge in the new era. The study finds that van Gulik constructed the cultural context of the original text through the practice of thick translation, while simultaneously popularizing pertinent knowledge. This included information of the author’s background, knowledge of the subject (or the theme), writing style, and the customs, allusions and myths contained within words or sentences. During the thick translation process, van Gulik meticulously examined various versions of the source text and consulted others’ translation to ensure the accuracy of local knowledge in his translations and annotations. Concurrently, he rectified misunderstandings of relevant Chinese knowledge in the West and facilitated the international dissemination of Chinese culture. His translation has the function of knowledge construction and has a profound influence on the target language culture.