Dujiangyan, located just west of Chengdu, is famous for its irrigation system, which was built in 256 BC.  One of the oldest irrigation projects in recorded history, its continued use to the present day is astounding. Due to its historical significance it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
 
Prior to the advent of the system, snowmelt from the Min Mountains caused the Min River to flood annually, destroying farms and plaguing the people. Li Bing, a local official, designed the irrigation to split the river in two, allowing one side to flow normally and the other side to irrigate the farms.  In order to do this he split Yulei Mountain, which had been blocking the river's path to the Chengdu plain. This task required seven years of hard labor to accomplish. Once complete, one side of the river still flowed higher than the other, so adjustments to the dam were needed.  Therefore, a man-made island levee with hundreds of huge bamboo cages (each several dozen meters long) with boulders inside was constructed in the middle of the river to create a sturdy filter.  With water still flowing through the system to this day, Dujiangyan is a distinguished forerunner of contemporary irrigation solutions earning it admiration from modern scientists.

Dujiangyan is an ideal destination for those with an interest in ancient Chinese engineering projects, as well as those who wish to take a leisurely hike which includes visits to temples, shrines and beautifully landscaped royal gardens.  The landscaping throughout the park is well maintained and contains creative fountains and ponds to highlight the water theme of the park. Visitors may encounter some young couples using the lush setting to take their wedding photos.

Visit Dujiangyan on an Overland China journey:
Secrets of Sichuan