Travel to Chengdu, China—Dujiangyan Scenic Area: Experience the Miracle and Charm of a Millennium-Old Water Conservancy Project

The Dujiangyan Scenic Area is located in the northwest of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. It is easily accessible by high-speed train, bus, or car.

The core attraction of the Dujiangyan Scenic Area is the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project. It consists of three main parts: the Yuzui Diverting Weir, the Feisha Weir Flood Discharge Channel, and the Baopingkou Water Intake. This ancient project has provided abundant water and fertile land to the Chengdu Plain and is renowned as the “Source of the Land of Abundance.”

In addition to admiring the marvelous structure and ingenious operation of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project, visitors can also explore historical and cultural sites such as Fulong Temple, Erwang Temple, and Yulei Pass. These sites offer a glimpse into the story and spirit of Li Bing and his son, who managed the waterworks over a thousand years ago.

The Dujiangyan Scenic Area also offers nearby attractions such as the ancient city of Guanxian, Qingcheng Mountain, and Hongkou Drift, catering to various interests and preferences of visitors.

Here’s a one-day itinerary for your trip to Dujiangyan Scenic Area, which may be helpful:

One-Day Tour Route:

• Depart from Chengdu around 8:00 AM.
• Take a high-speed train or bus to Dujiangyan City.
• From Dujiangyan City, take Bus 4 or a taxi to the South Bridge Entrance of the Dujiangyan Scenic Area.

Enter the scenic area through the South Bridge Entrance, and walk along the Qingxi Garden to Nanmu Forest. Enjoy the clear waters of the Neijiang River and the lush Nanmu Forest.

Continue your walk from Nanmu Forest to Yanggong Dao, the highest point of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project, where you can get a panoramic view of the entire scenic area.

Descend from Yanggong Dao to Fulong Temple, the place where Li Bing and his son are said to have subdued the malevolent dragon during their water management efforts. This temple also serves as a place of worship for Li Bing and his son. At Fulong Temple, you can see the Baopingkou Water Intake, which functions as the “regulating gate” of the Dujiangyan project, automatically controlling the flow of water into the Neijiang River.

Walk along the Neijiang Riverbank from Fulong Temple to the Feisha Weir Flood Discharge Channel. This area serves as the “sand discharge gate” of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project. It uses the force of the water flow to flush out sediment from the riverbed, ensuring that the water quality of the Neijiang River remains clear.

Continue your walk from the Feisha Weir to the Yuzui Diverting Weir. This area functions as the “diverting gate” of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project, allowing for the regulated diversion of water based on flow rates. During periods of abundant water, 60% of the river water flowing through Yuzui goes to the outer river, while 40% goes to the inner river. Conversely, during low water periods, the distribution is reversed. This system achieves the “diverting 60% and 40% for flood and drought balance” effect.

Cross the Anlan Suspension Bridge from Yuzui to reach the right bank of the Minjiang River. The Anlan Suspension Bridge is a historic bridge spanning both the inner and outer rivers and is one of China’s five great ancient bridges. From the bridge, you can experience the grandeur and scenery of the Minjiang River and enjoy a panoramic view of the Yuzui Diverting Weir.

From Anlan Suspension Bridge, climb to Erwang Temple, the highest point of the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, dedicated to Li Bing and his son. Here, you can pay respects at their statues and view cultural relics such as famous water management quotes and poet inscriptions.

Descend from Erwang Temple via the Songmao Ancient Path to Yulei Pass, the western gate of the ancient Dujiangyan city and an important part of the water conservancy project. At Yulei Pass, you can see a map of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project and enjoy distant views of the Feisha Weir and Yuzui Diverting Weir.

Here’s a summary of the rest of your itinerary along with some helpful tips:

From Yulei Pass, walk to Yulei Mountain Square, the central plaza of Dujiangyan City, where you can find numerous shops and restaurants for a break and meal.

Around 2:00 PM, walk from Yulei Mountain Square to Guanxian Ancient City, the historical and cultural district of Dujiangyan. Here, you can explore ancient buildings and folk exhibitions, immersing yourself in the history and charm of the area.

Around 4:00 PM, walk back from Guanxian Ancient City to the South Bridge Exit, and then take Bus 4 or a taxi to Dujiangyan City. From there, catch a high-speed train or bus back to Chengdu.

Notes:

• Entrance Fee: The ticket to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area is 80 RMB per person. Booking online may offer discounts.
• Rental Services: The scenic area offers sightseeing vehicles and audio guides for rent, costing 15 RMB per person and 20 RMB per unit, respectively. It’s advisable to book or rent these in advance to save time and effort.
• Footwear and Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as there are many stairs and slopes. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Facilities: The scenic area has free drinking water stations and restrooms. There are snack stalls and souvenir shops, but they can be pricey, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water.
• Guided Tours: To enhance your visit and gain more insights into the historical and engineering aspects of Dujiangyan, consider renting an audio guide or hiring a local guide. You might also be interested in watching the “Dujiangyan Interpretation” live performance to learn about the project’s legendary story and spirit.
• Nearby Attractions: If you have extra time, you can explore other nearby attractions like Qingcheng Mountain, Hongkou Drift, or Panda Valley. For a deeper cultural experience, consider staying in Guanxian Ancient City or Hongkou Town.