Dujiangyan Scenic Area (都江堰景区) is home to one of the most remarkable ancient water management systems in the world, constructed in the 3rd century BC during the Warring States period of China. The project was initiated by Li Bing, the governor of Shu County under the Qin State, and his son, and it remains the oldest and only surviving large-scale water conservancy project that utilizes a dam-free approach to water diversion.
For over two thousand years, Dujiangyan has continuously served as a vital flood control and irrigation system, transforming the Chengdu Plain into a fertile “Land of Abundance.” This extraordinary feat of engineering is often compared to the Great Wall in its significance to Chinese civilization.
The Dujiangyan water system is located on the Minjiang River, at the foot of Mount Qingcheng, and consists of three main parts: the Fish Mouth (鱼嘴), the Flying Sand Weir (飞沙堰), and the Bottle-Neck Channel (宝瓶口). The harmonious interaction between these three components ensures the effective and sustainable operation of the Dujiangyan system, making it a model of ancient hydraulic engineering.
Travel Information about Dujiangyan Scenic Area
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: 80 CNY
Opening Hours:
8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (December to February)
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (March to November)
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Dujiangyan are during spring and summer. In spring, visitors can experience local customs during the Dujiangyan Water Releasing Festival and the Erwang Temple Fair. Summer is lively with the Summer Beer Festival. Keep in mind that most rainfall occurs between May and September, so be prepared for wet weather during this period.
How to Get There
Location: Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, on Gongyuan Road, Guankou Town.
By Intercity Train: Take the intercity train from Xipu Station to Dujiangyan. The journey takes about 20 minutes, and the ticket costs 10 CNY.
Scenic Ratings
- Beauty: ★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Relaxation: ★★★★
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★
- Adventure: ★★★
- Romance: ★★★
Highlights of Dujiangyan Scenic Area
City God Temple
The City God Temple, originally built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, is a masterful architectural complex that takes full advantage of the surrounding mountainous terrain. The structure is carefully designed and features an intricate layout, with the buildings divided into upper and lower sections, forming a “T” shape. Key structures within the complex include the Horse King Hall, the Main Hall of the City God, the Goddess Hall, and the Wealth God Hall.
The Main Hall of the City God serves as the temple’s central hall. A plaque inscribed with “公正廉明 Fair and Just” hangs prominently in the center, symbolizing the hall’s function as a court where justice is administered. Adjacent to the Main Hall is the Goddess Hall, a place of rest for the City God and his consort. This hall is elegantly decorated, reflecting a refined and classical style.
Erwang Temple
Erwang Temple, located at the foot of Mount Yulei on the eastern bank of the Minjiang River, was originally built during the Northern and Southern Dynasties to honor Li Bing and his son Erlang, who were key figures in the construction of the Dujiangyan irrigation system. The existing structures were rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty, and the temple is renowned for its majestic and graceful architecture, earning the nickname “Fairyland of Yulei.” Inside the temple, statues of Li Bing and Erlang are enshrined, and the stone walls are engraved with Li Bing’s maxims and sayings on water management, as well as those of later generations.
Behind the temple stands the Qinyan Pavilion, which offers a panoramic view of Dujiangyan. From here, visitors can observe the Minjiang River as it flows down from the mountains, where it is divided into two by the Fish Mouth levee. The ingenious designs of the Feishayan floodgate and Baopingkou channel control the water flow, directing it into irrigation channels and preventing sediment buildup.
In front of Erwang Temple lies the ancient Songmao Path, a historic trade route over 1,000 years old. This path was once part of the famous “Tea-Horse Road,” where merchants and mule caravans would travel daily, making it a bustling hub of commercial activity.
Anlan Suspension Bridge
The Anlan Suspension Bridge, originally constructed before the Song Dynasty, is celebrated as one of the “Five Ancient Bridges of China” and is one of the most iconic sights at Dujiangyan.
The bridge spans across the Inner River, Jin’gang Levee, and Outer River. Initially, it was supported by wooden piers and stone bases, with bamboo cables as thick as a bowl spanning the river. Wooden planks were laid across the cables to form the bridge deck, and bamboo ropes were used as railings on both sides. However, the original bridge was destroyed during wartime.
The current bridge, which was relocated over 100 meters downstream, has undergone significant improvements. Bamboo has been replaced with steel, and the wooden piers have been substituted with reinforced concrete, making the bridge much more durable and resilient.
Fish Mouth
The Fish Mouth, located 1,950 meters from the mouth of the Minjiang River, is a key feature of the Dujiangyan irrigation system. It is situated in the middle of a bend in the river and resembles a crescent moon. The front of the structure is flat and extends into the water, resembling the mouth of a fish, hence its name “Fish Mouth.”
The Fish Mouth divides the Minjiang River into two parts. The left side is known as the Outer River, which carries the main flow of the river and is primarily used for flood control. The right side, running along the base of the mountains, is the Inner River, an artificial channel designed for irrigation purposes.
The Fish Mouth is ingeniously designed to take advantage of the natural terrain, effectively regulating water flow. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in sediment management by directing silt away from the irrigation channels.
Flying Sand Weir
Flying Sand Weir, located 1,070 meters southwest of the Fish Mouth, is a crucial component of the Dujiangyan irrigation system, ensuring that the Chengdu Plain is protected from floods and droughts. The weir spans 200 meters and serves two primary functions: flood control and sediment management.
When the water level in the Inner River exceeds the capacity of the Bottle-Neck channel, Flying Sand Weir diverts the excess water back into the Outer River. In the event of an extreme flood, Flying Sand Weir is designed to breach automatically, allowing a large volume of water to flow back into the main channel of the Minjiang River, thus preventing flooding in the irrigation areas.
Flying Sand Weir also plays a vital role in sediment management. The stronger the flood, the more effective Feishayan becomes at removing sediment, ensuring that the water flow in the Inner River remains unobstructed and the irrigation system functions smoothly.
Bottle-Neck Channel
Bottle-Neck Channel, named for its shape resembling the neck of a bottle, is a strategic opening in the long ridge of Mount Yulei that extends toward the Minjiang River.
Bottle-Neck Channel serves as the passageway for water from the Inner River to flow into the Chengdu Plain. It regulates the water flow with a fixed intake capacity. Regardless of the volume of water entering the Inner River, any amount exceeding Bottle-Neck Channel’s capacity is diverted, ensuring that the Chengdu Plain has a sufficient water supply for irrigation without the risk of flooding. This precise control system protects the region from water-related disasters while maintaining its agricultural productivity.
Lidui Park
Lidui Park, located to the left of Baopingkou, covers an area of 60,000 square meters. The park is named after the “Lidui,” a detached hill that was formed when Li Bing and his workers carved through the mountain to create the Dujiangyan irrigation system.
The park is a serene and picturesque setting with traditional pavilions, towers, and corridors that exude an ancient charm. It features lush greenery, rock gardens, fountains, and a wide variety of trees and flowers, including ancient groves, plum blossom gardens, osmanthus gardens, bonsai gardens, and crabapple gardens. The park is also home to several cultural and historical relics, such as the Lidui itself, Fulong Temple, a stone statue of Li Bing, the Feilong Iron Cauldron, and the Xunlou Stele.
Tianfuyuan Old Teahouse
Nestled within Lidui Park, beneath the shade of ancient trees, lies the Tianfuyuan Old Teahouse, a beautifully crafted structure that exudes traditional charm. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters, the teahouse offers a serene and elegant atmosphere.
Visitors to Tianfuyuan can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, including traditional tea ceremonies, classical music performances, and dance shows. While sipping a fragrant cup of tea, guests can immerse themselves in the melodies of ancient music, engage in activities like calligraphy, painting, or chess, or simply take in the scenic beauty that surrounds the teahouse. This blend of cultural enrichment and natural splendor makes Tianfuyuan Old Teahouse a delightful retreat within Lidui Park.
Visitor Guide for Dujiangyan Scenic Area
Accommodation in Dujiangyan
Dujiangyan offers a wide range of hotels for visitors, with options close to scenic areas or near transportation hubs for convenience.
Yanquingluan Yunshe Hotel (堰青峦韵舍酒店): Located at 150 Yukang Road, Waihuali Community, Yutang Street, this hotel is set away from the bustling city. To the left, guests can enjoy the beautiful Minjiang River, while to the right, the tranquil mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. The hotel’s design is both modern and elegant, with each area featuring unique scenic views that blend contemporary simplicity with classical charm. The hotel also offers a mountain-view terrace and leisure areas, perfect for private barbecues or small outdoor gatherings.
Minjiang New Pearl Hotel (都江堰岷江新濠酒店): Situated at 388 Dujiangyan Avenue, this hotel is in a peaceful area yet remains conveniently accessible. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, making it an ideal spot for gathering with friends. Guests can relax in hot springs, enjoy tea, listen to the soothing sounds of nature, and admire the vast starry sky. The refreshing bamboo and wooden decor creates a serene atmosphere, providing a delightful escape for visitors.
Cuisine in Dujiangyan
The Dujiangyan Scenic Area is conveniently located near the city, making it easy to find delicious dining options. The annual Dujiangyan Beer Festival also features outstanding nighttime snacks, with mouthwatering river shrimp, small fish, and crabs that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Nighttime dining by the riverside and at local farms is a must-try.
Junshoufu Restaurant (都江堰郡守府): Located at the center of Tianyi Street, Yangtianwo in Dujiangyan, Junshoufu is a restaurant that focuses on natural ingredients. The menu features a variety of wild fish from the Minjiang River and other nearby rivers, as well as wild mushrooms and fresh vegetables from the surrounding hills. Signature dishes include the Junshou Longsheng Feast and Green Glutinous Rice Cake, highlighting the local flavors.
Miaochu Laodie Spring Steamed Stone Pot Fish (妙厨老爹泉水蒸汽石锅鱼): Situated at 226 Jiang’an Middle Road, this restaurant specializes in stone pot fish with an extensive selection of fish types, including Qingjiang fish, Jiangtuan, and fathead fish. Diners can choose fish according to their taste preferences. The menu also offers a variety of cold dishes, such as bitter lettuce with pig ears and crispy Ma family celery. The stone pot fish broth is exceptionally flavorful and can be complemented with a selection of fresh vegetables.
Festivals in Dujiangyan
Water-Splashing Festival: Held annually during the Qingming Festival at Chenghuang Temple, this festival commemorates Li Bing and his son. During the event, hundreds of brave men take to the stage, performing lively dances with bamboo baskets, all while shouting “Water Splash!” as torrents of river water rush down. The festival features a variety of exciting cultural performances, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Erwang Temple Fair:The Erwang Temple Fair takes place on the 24th and 26th days of the sixth lunar month each year, marking the birthdays of Erlang God and Li Bing. During these two days, people from the western Sichuan region make arduous journeys to the temple, bringing offerings to pay their respects. The fair is filled with traditional rituals, making it a significant cultural event that draws large crowds.