Dujiangyan Irrigation System

The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as one of the oldest and most remarkable hydraulic engineering projects in the world. Built over 2,000 years ago during the Warring States Period, this ancient water conservation system continues to serve the Chengdu Plain, demonstrating the incredible wisdom of ancient Chinese engineering.

Essential Information

Admission

Adult ticket: ¥80
Opening hours:
- Summer (Apr-Oct): 8:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
- Winter (Nov-Mar): 8:00 - 17:30 (last entry 17:00)

Best Time to Visit

Spring (Mar-May): Comfortable temperatures with blooming flowers
Autumn (Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather with golden ginkgo leaves
Summer (Jun-Aug): Hot but impressive water flow
Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but fewer crowds

Getting There

High-speed Rail: Take the train from Chengdu Xipu Station to Dujiangyan Station (30 minutes)
Bus: Regular buses from Chengdu Chaodianzi Bus Station to Dujiangyan (1.5 hours)
Tourist Bus: Available from major Chengdu attractions like Wide and Narrow Alleys, Jinli Street, and Wuhou Temple

Main Attractions

Fish Mouth Levee (Yuzui)

The Fish Mouth Levee is the heart of the irrigation system, ingeniously dividing the Min River into inner and outer streams. The inner stream provides water for irrigation, while the outer stream manages flood control. This remarkable feat of engineering demonstrates the ancient Chinese understanding of hydraulics and river management.

Bottle-Neck Channel (Baopingkou)

Named for its bottle-neck shape, this artificial channel controls water flow into the inner stream. The narrow design helps regulate water volume and speed, ensuring stable water supply throughout the year. Ancient water level markers can still be seen on the rock walls during low water periods.

Flying Sand Fence (Feisha)

The Flying Sand Fence is a crucial component that manages sediment flow. During flood seasons, excess water and sediment are diverted to the outer stream, preventing siltation in the irrigation channel. This innovative design has helped maintain the system's effectiveness for over two millennia.

Erwang (Two Kings) Temple

This magnificent temple honors Li Bing and his son, the engineers behind the Dujiangyan system. The temple complex features traditional Sichuan architecture and houses historical artifacts related to the irrigation system's construction and maintenance.

Anlan Bridge

The historic Anlan Suspension Bridge spans the Min River, offering spectacular views of the water system. This traditional bridge combines practical functionality with aesthetic beauty, making it a popular spot for photography.