Dujiangyan Irrigation System

1.Introduction: The Living Museum of Water

Located approximately 50 kilometers from Chengdu in Sichuan Province, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is a marvel of ancient engineering that defies the passage of time. Built around 256 BC during the Warring States period, it is the oldest and only surviving no-dam irrigation system in the world still in use today. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, it is often hailed as the "Ancestor of World Water Culture" and a "Living Water Museum". Unlike modern concrete dams that block river flow, Dujiangyan harnesses the Minjiang River's power through natural diversion, a philosophy that perfectly embodies the Taoist principle of "harmony between humanity and nature".

History: A Miracle of 256 BC

2.The story of: Dujiangyan begins over two millennia ago when Li Bing, the governor of the Shu Prefecture, along with his son and the local people, undertook the massive task of taming the flood-prone Minjiang River. Using primitive but ingenious methods—such as heating rocks with fire and then dousing them with cold water to crack them, and using bamboo cages filled with stones for stability—they transformed the Chengdu Plain from a region plagued by floods into the fertile "Land of Abundance". Even today, the system irrigates over 30 million mu (approx. 2 million hectares) of farmland.

The Engineering Triad

3.The brilliance of: Dujiangyan lies in its three main components, which work in perfect harmony without the need for a dam:

• 4.Yuzui (The Fish Mouth Water-Dividing Dike): This dike divides the river into the Inner River (for irrigation) and the Outer River (for flood discharge). It automatically adjusts the flow: during the dry season, it directs 60% of the water into the Inner River, while in the flood season, it sends 60% to the Outer River.
• 5.Feishayan (The Flying Sand Weir): A spillway that uses centrifugal force and river currents to discharge excess water and silt from the Inner River into the Outer River, preventing the irrigation channels from silting up.
• 6.Baopingkou (The Bottle-Neck Channel): A narrow passage cut through the Yulei Mountain that acts as a check gate, controlling the amount of water entering the Chengdu Plain. The rushing water here creates a thunderous and impressive spectacle.

Cultural Highlights and Sites

Beyond the engineering, the scenic area is rich in history and atmosphere.

• 7.Erwang Temple (Two Kings Temple): Built to honor Li Bing and his son, this temple complex nestles against the mountain, offering panoramic views of the entire irrigation system.
• 8.Anlan Suspension Bridge: Known as the "Couple's Bridge," this swaying bridge spans the turbulent river. Originally made of bamboo cables, it offers a thrilling crossing and excellent photography opportunities.
• 9.Lidui Park and Nanqiao (South Bridge): The park offers serene paths and ancient trees, while the South Bridge is famous for its vibrant night views, colorful lights, and local snacks.

Festivals and Philosophy

The site is deeply connected to the local culture. The "Water-Releasing Festival" held during Qingming (early April) is a grand tradition where locals worship Li Bing and celebrate the opening of the irrigation season. The engineering philosophy is summarized in the six-character secret: "Deepen the channel, keep the weir low" (深淘滩，低作堰), a rule that has ensured the system's survival for thousands of years.