Dujiangyan Irrigation System



The Dujiangyan Irrigation System is a pearl in the water works construction of ancient China. Built over 2,200
years ago, it still provides benefits for the people. On the 29th of November 2000, Dujiangyan Irrigation System
and Mt. Qingcheng were placed on the world cultural heritage list.

The origins of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System date back to 256 BC, when the provincial governor Li Bing set
up an irrigation scheme to the counter the devastating flooding caused by the Min River. His system makes
subtle use of the local topography. It splits the Min into an inner flow for irrigation and an outer channel for
flood control. The original system has been preserved, but modern building materials and technology have
been utilized to enable this ancient system to conform with the requirements of the present day.

The ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System is unique and a scientific marvel. It provides the vital passage that joins mountain and plain. The main
system consists of three parts: a fish-mouth-like water-dividing dyke, two spillways for discharging flood waters and silt, and a channel cut through
Yulei Mountain as a water inlet. These three parts interact and depend on one another, constituting a carefully designed and reasonably arranged
water diversion hub that contributes to irrigation, flood control, and shipping.

Anlan Suspension Bridge over both the inner and outer river, right above Yuzui dyke, spans 500 meters. It used to be secured by thick bamboo
rope. Although it is reinforced by tight steel wire now, visitors still can have fun by swinging back and forth on the bridge while walking across.

The Dujiangyan Region has a beautiful landscape and many cultural relics and historical sites,
including the Fulong Temple, Erwang Temple, and the trail bridge. All of these, plus moving
legends have exerted a great attraction for both domestic and overseas tourists.

On May 12, 2008 a massive earthquake cantered on the Dujiangyan area struck. Initial reports
indicate that the Yuzui Levee was cracked but not severely damaged.