Things To Do
in Duijiang
Duijiang, located near 27.0782, 105.5256 in Sichuan Province, is a historic city anchored by the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO-listed feat from 256 BCE. It sits along the Min River and is framed by the Qingcheng Mountains, offering a blend of engineering marvels, lush landscapes, and traditional Sichuan culture. Visitors come for the irrigation site, Taoist temples, and easy access to scenic trails and riverbank strolls.
The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, making outdoor exploration feasible much of the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a stroll through Dujiangyan's picturesque ancient water town, where traditional Chinese architecture is harmoniously integrated with the flowing rivers. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting quaint shops and tasting local delicacies like sweet tofu pudding. Capture stunning photographs of the bridges and canals as the sun rises over the mountains.
In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the rivers to see the historical irrigation system that has been in place since ancient times. Visit the nearby gardens and parks to relax and take in the serene landscapes. Perhaps enjoy a picnic with local snacks while surrounded by lush greenery.
As the sun sets, wander around the vibrant night market, where you can sample various street foods and shop for handmade crafts. The streets come alive with local performances, providing a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and mingling with locals. End your day by sitting by the river, enjoying the view of the illuminated town and the distant mountains.
Begin the day with a guided tour of the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about its significance in Chinese history and agriculture. Stroll along the pathways and admire the engineering marvels that date back over 2,000 years. Be captivated by the surrounding natural beauty and the tranquil sound of flowing water.
In the afternoon, hike up to the nearby Erwang Temple to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire irrigation area and the surrounding mountains. The temple is dedicated to the founder of the irrigation system and offers a peaceful setting for reflection. Use the opportunity to connect with local monks or guides who can share fascinating stories about the site.
Conclude the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant, focusing on Sichuan cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and spices. Engage with locals and perhaps learn to cook a traditional dish during a mini cooking class. The evening atmosphere is enhanced by natural sounds, making for a serene dining experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Beverage (local tea or soda) | $1-3 |
| 🚇Local transit ride | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🎟️Entrance to major sights | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a UNESCO irrigation system
- Scenic mountains and tranquil rivers ideal for nature lovers
- Excellent Sichuan cuisine with vegetarian options
- Relatively compact and walkable Old Town area
- Friendly, approachable locals and manageable crowds
- Tourist numbers can rise on weekends and holidays
- Some attractions require walking on uneven or uphill paths
- Limited high-energy nightlife compared to big cities
- Currency and mobile payment adoption can vary in smaller shops
- English may be less widely spoken outside major tourist spots
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Qǐng wèn, zhèr zǒu qù lù zǒu shì nǎlǐ?" - Excuse me, where is the way to...?
- "Wǒ yào zhège" - I want this
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Qǐng nǐ zhǎo yīxià dìtú" - Please show me this map
Places to Visit in Duijiang
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic angles along the levees and waterways offering opportunities to capture the engineering that supports the region.
Dense bamboo groves with soft light and misty air—perfect for tranquil nature photography.
Stone steps, lanterns, and quiet courtyards provide timeless temple photography moments.
Riverside paths that reflect golden hour light on water and mountain silhouettes.
Food in Duijiang
Duijiang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy sesame-laced noodles with minced pork; a quintessential Sichuan street-food favorite.
Must-Try!
Silky tofu in a pungent, chili-laden sauce with Sichuan peppercorn for a numbing heat.
Stir-fried chicken with peanuts and dried chilies; widely available in local eateries.
Pork belly simmered with peppers and scallions, a classic Sichuan staple.
Tender fish in a hot chili-oil bath; share if you’re sensitive to heat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market near the Min River with stalls offering snacks, fresh produce, and local gifts.
Skewered meats, grilled vegetables, and tofu bites; best enjoyed in the evenings.
Freshly pulled noodles with spicy sauces and crisp vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, speak softly in temples, remove hats, and ask before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
Respect lines and wait your turn; avoid pushing in crowded areas.
Address people politely by title and surname; a small bow or handshake is common in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Duijiang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most establishments; you may tip guides or drivers 5-10% for exceptional service.
Cash (RMB) is widely accepted; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in towns and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with blooming flora; occasional light showers; bring a lightweight rain shell.
Warm to hot with high humidity; frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Mild to cool; generally dry with occasional cool mornings on the mountains; layers advised.
Duijiang at Night
Hiking in Duijiang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular Taoist trails offering wooded paths, temples, and sweeping mountain views.
Riverside routes with varying elevations, ideal for photography and relaxed hikes.
Airports
How to reach Duijiang by plane.
Major international gateway to the region; about 60-90 minutes by car to Duijiang depending on traffic.
Newer airport serving many domestic and international flights; roughly 1.5-2.5 hours by road to Duijiang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dominant ethnic group in the area; locals are typically Mandarin-speaking with Sichuanese dialects.
A sizable portion of the local economy consists of guides, shopkeepers, and service staff who support visitors to the irrigation site and Taoist temples.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and urban centers; many community courts and local leagues.
Common pastime in parks and community centers; casual and competitive play alike.
Popular for morning workouts along mountain trails and temple grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Duijiang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared with tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables; request no meat stock and look for vegetarian labels.
Ask for dishes prepared without soy sauce or gluten-containing ingredients; communicate clearly with staff.