Dujiangyan Travel Guide: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering in Sichuan

Located about 60 kilometers from Chengdu in Sichuan Province, Dujiangyan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the world’s oldest and most ingenious irrigation systems. Built over 2,000 years ago by Li Bing and his son, this engineering marvel continues to function today, showcasing the wisdom of ancient China. Beyond its historical significance, Dujiangyan offers stunning natural scenery and a rich Taoist culture, making it a perfect complement to nearby Mount Qingcheng. This Sichuan travel guide will help you explore one of the most fascinating Sichuan attractions.

Getting to Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan is easily accessible from Chengdu, with multiple transportation options:

By High-Speed Train
Take a high-speed train from Chengdu Railway Station or Chengdu East Station to Dujiangyan Station (approx. 30-40 minutes, CNY 15-25). From there, transfer to bus 101 or 4 (15 minutes, CNY 2) or take a taxi (10-15 minutes, CNY 20) to the scenic area.

By Bus
Direct buses are available from Chengdu’s Chadianzi or Xinnanmen Bus Stations to Dujiangyan Bus Station (approx. 1-1.5 hours, CNY 15-25). From there, take local transport to the scenic area.

By Car
Drive from Chengdu via the Chengdu-Guanxian Expressway (approx. 1 hour). Parking is available near the scenic area (CNY 10-20/day).

Within the Scenic Area
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System is best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance. If you plan to visit Mount Qingcheng, take a taxi or bus (approx. 20 minutes).

Top Attractions and Activities

Dujiangyan is centered around its ancient irrigation system, but the area also boasts cultural and natural highlights:

Dujiangyan Irrigation System

• Highlights: Built in 256 BC, this system includes three main components: Yuzui (Fish Mouth Levee), Feishayan (Flying Sand Weir), and Baopingkou (Bottle-Neck Channel). It’s the oldest non-dam irrigation system still in use today.
• Tip: Visit Lidui Park for a panoramic view of the system, or cross the Anlan Suspension Bridge for a thrilling experience over the rushing river.

Lidui Park

• Highlights: Adjacent to the irrigation system, this park features lush greenery, historical sites like Fulong Temple and Erwang Temple, and scenic viewpoints.
• Tip: Learn about Li Bing’s water management legacy at Fulong Temple and pay respects at Erwang Temple, dedicated to Li Bing and his son.

Anlan Suspension Bridge

• Highlights: A historic iron-chain bridge spanning the Minjiang River. Its swaying walkway offers both excitement and stunning views.
• Tip: Be cautious when crossing, especially during peak hours.

Nanqiao (South Bridge)

• Highlights: A beautifully carved ancient bridge in downtown Dujiangyan. At night, the bridge is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. The nearby food street is perfect for sampling local snacks.
• Tip: Visit in the evening for photos and a taste of local street food.

Guanxian Ancient Town

• Highlights: A charming area near the scenic spot, featuring traditional tea houses, snack stalls, and historic architecture.
• Tip: Stroll through the old streets to experience local life and culture.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Trip: Dujiangyan Irrigation System (Yuzui → Feishayan → Baopingkou) → Anlan Suspension Bridge → Lidui Park → Return.

One-Day Trip: Morning: Explore the irrigation system and Lidui Park. Afternoon: Visit Guanxian Ancient Town and Nanqiao. Evening: Enjoy local food at Nanqiao Food Street.

Two-Day Trip: Day 1: Explore Dujiangyan. Day 2: Visit Mount Qingcheng (Front or Back Mountain).

Food Recommendations

Dujiangyan’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Sichuan flavors and local specialties:

Dujiangyan Grilled Fish

• Try: Fresh fish from the Minjiang River, grilled with spicy Sichuan seasonings (CNY 50-80/person). Best enjoyed at restaurants near Nanqiao.

Fat Intestine Noodles (Fenchang Fen)

• Try: A local favorite, featuring chewy noodles in a rich, slightly spicy broth (CNY 10-15/bowl). Available in Guanxian Ancient Town.

Tofu Banquet

• Try: A variety of tofu dishes, from steamed to braised, served at local farmhouses (CNY 30-50/person).

Chuanchuan (Skewers)

• Try: DIY skewers with a range of ingredients, dipped in spicy broth (CNY 20-40/person). Popular at Nanqiao Food Street.

Sweet Water Noodles (Tian Shui Mian)

• Try: Thick noodles served with a sweet and spicy sauce (CNY 10/bowl). A unique local snack.

Accommodation Options

In the City: Hotels and guesthouses in downtown Dujiangyan (CNY 100-300/night).
Near the Scenic Area: Budget-friendly lodges near Lidui Park (CNY 50-150/night).
Luxury Options: Qingcheng HaoSheng Hotel or Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain (CNY 500-2000/night), offering hot springs and stunning views.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
• Summer (June-August): High water flow, ideal for viewing the irrigation system.
• Autumn (September-November): Clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): Fewer tourists but colder weather.

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes (some areas have slippery steps).
• Sunscreen and a hat for summer; warm clothing for winter.
• Rain gear (especially during the rainy season).

Costs

• Entrance fee: CNY 90 (student discounts available). Additional fees for certain attractions like Erwang Temple (CNY 10).
• Total budget (including transport and meals): CNY 150-300/person.

Safety Tips

• Be cautious on the Anlan Suspension Bridge, especially during crowded times.
• Avoid getting too close to fast-flowing water in the irrigation system.
• Respect local customs and historical sites.

Sample One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Depart Chengdu → High-speed train to Dujiangyan → Arrive at the scenic area → Explore Yuzui, Feishayan, and Baopingkou.
Midday: Lunch at a nearby farmhouse or with packed snacks → Visit Fulong Temple and Erwang Temple in Lidui Park.
Afternoon: Cross the Anlan Suspension Bridge → Stroll through Guanxian Ancient Town → Take photos at Nanqiao.
Evening: Enjoy grilled fish or skewers at Nanqiao Food Street → Return to Chengdu or stay overnight.

Dujiangyan is not only a testament to ancient engineering but also a gateway to Sichuan’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether you’re marveling at the irrigation system, exploring ancient temples, or savoring local delicacies, this Sichuan travel guide ensures your journey to Dujiangyan will be both memorable and enriching.