Dujiangyan: The 2,000-Year-Old Water System That’s Still Changing Lives Today

History, engineering, and nature meet in perfect harmony at Dujiangyan — one of China’s greatest ancient wonders that most travelers still haven’t discovered.

Built over 2,200 years ago during the Qin Dynasty, Dujiangyan is the world’s oldest surviving irrigation system, and astonishingly, it’s still in use today. But this isn’t just an old relic — it’s a breathtaking blend of ancient innovation and scenic beauty that left us in awe.

🌿 What to Expect:
Walk across wooden bridges above rushing turquoise water, explore Pagoda Park, and marvel at the ingenious design that has prevented flooding and fed Sichuan’s farmlands for centuries — all without using a single dam. The landscape is peaceful, lush, and framed by snow-dusted mountains.

🧭 Cultural Bonus:
Climb up to Erwang Temple for sweeping views of the river system and learn about Li Bing and his son, the engineering duo who made it all possible. The temple complex, with incense curling into the sky, feels like stepping into a living piece of Chinese philosophy.

🐼 Pro Tip:
Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Dujiangyan Panda Base, where you can see adorable pandas in a more relaxed, less crowded environment than Chengdu.

#travel #chengdu #dujiangyan

Post by Skyythomas | Jul 27, 2025