A Tradition Rooted in History

This annual event commemorates Li bing, a visionary governor of the Shu state during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), who, in 256 BC, initiated the construction of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. This system stands as one of the oldest operational water-control projects in the world, playing a crucial role in protecting the Chengdu Plain from the devastating effects of both floods and droughts. Its success has earned the region the moniker “land of abundance.”

The ingenuity of the Dujiangyan system lies in its ability to divert water from the Minjiang River without the need for a dam.This innovative design, utilizing natural topography and ingenious engineering principles, continues to provide sustainable irrigation to approximately 770,000 hectares of farmland across eight cities and 41 county-level regions in Sichuan province.Its impact on the region’s agricultural productivity and economic stability is undeniable, offering a compelling case study in sustainable infrastructure.

Imagine a system built over two millennia ago still efficiently managing water resources. It’s like the Hoover Dam,but built by hand with bamboo and stone! This is the legacy of Li Bing and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.

Recreating History: The Water-Releasing Ceremony

The festival’s centerpiece is the water-releasing ceremony, a vibrant past reenactment that transports attendees back in time. The ceremony meticulously recreates the ancient methods used to construct cofferdams, block the river, perform sacrificial rituals, and ultimately, release the life-giving water to irrigate the Chengdu Plain.

In ancient times, workers used bamboo cages filled with stones, along with wooden tripods called “macha” to block the Minjiang River during winter. This allowed them to dredge the river channel and reinforce the dikes.As spring arrived, they would tear down the macha to release water for irrigating farmland in the Chengdu plain.

Huang Shasha, a first-time visitor from the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, expressed her awe, stating, “Li Bing’s wisdom in water control is truly extraordinary.” her sentiment captures the shared admiration for the ancient engineer’s foresight and ingenuity.

A Cross-Cultural Festivity: Joining Hands with Thailand’s Songkran Festival

A new and exciting dimension to the 2025 festival was its joint celebration with Thailand’s Songkran Festival. Local officials have announced that this collaboration will be a permanent fixture, fostering cross-cultural exchange and strengthening ties between the two regions.

This partnership highlights the shared appreciation for water as a vital resource and a symbol of renewal. Like Songkran, which involves joyful water splashing, the Dujiangyan Water-Releasing Festival emphasizes the importance of water management and its connection to cultural heritage.

Think of it as a cultural exchange akin to a sister-city relationship, but focused on water and celebration. It’s a unique blend of ancient Chinese engineering and Thai New Year festivities.

Economic and Cultural Showcase

Beyond the historical reenactment, the festival also features a range of activities designed to promote consumption, showcase local culture, and boost tourism. Visitors have the opportunity to experience intangible cultural heritage skills and purchase unique products from eight cities within the Dujiangyan Irrigation System’s service area, as well as from Kangding in Sichuan and Thailand.

Seeking UNESCO Recognition

The Dujiangyan Water-Releasing Festival was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item in 2006. Now, local authorities are seeking to elevate its status further by applying for inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

This pursuit of UNESCO recognition underscores the cultural significance of the festival and its importance in preserving traditional knowlege and practices related to water management. Similar to how Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and its associated festival are being considered for their remarkable cultural value.

Here’s why UNESCO recognition matters: it not only draws international attention and tourism, but also provides resources and support for preserving the tradition for future generations, much like the preservation efforts at historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg.

Practical Applications and Modern Relevance

While the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is an ancient feat of engineering, its principles remain relevant in modern water management. The system’s emphasis on natural flow, minimal infrastructure, and community involvement offers valuable lessons for addressing contemporary water challenges.

Consider California’s ongoing drought. The Dujiangyan system’s sustainable approach, minimizing reliance on large dams and maximizing natural water flow, could offer insights for developing more resilient and environmentally friendly water management strategies in the American West. The focus on community involvement also resonates with the growing emphasis on local water governance and stakeholder engagement in the U.S.

The ongoing work to preserve and promote the Dujiangyan Water-Releasing Festival offers a powerful example of how cultural heritage can contribute to sustainable development and international cooperation. As the world faces increasing water scarcity and climate change impacts, the ancient wisdom of Dujiangyan offers a timeless reminder of the importance of responsible water stewardship.

A Glimpse into the Festival

While images are unavailable, imagine the vibrant colors of traditional costumes, the rhythmic beat of drums, and the collective energy of a community celebrating its heritage. The Dujiangyan Water-Releasing Festival is a sensory experience that connects visitors to the past while offering a vision for a sustainable future.