Last updated on June 15th, 2025
A Dujiangyan Itinerary could include to visit impressive Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Nanqiang for its blue tear, Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Guanxian Ancient Town, and more.
Dujiangyan (Chinese: 都江堰) is renowned for its impressive Dujiangyan Irrigation System. This irrigation system, built over 2,000 years ago, is considered one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements and is a must-visit site for tourists traveling to Chengdu. Not only is it a functional irrigation system, but it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to Dujiangyan can witness the remarkable harmony between innovation, nature, and culture.
In addition to the famous Dujiangyan Irrigation System, other popular attractions to visit in Dujiangyan include Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, and the Guanxian Ancient Town.
In this Dujiangyan Travel Guide blog, we will provide essential travel tips and a detailed Dujiangyan itinerary to help you plan your visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and other major attractions. We’ll cover how to get there, what to see, and offer tips for making the most of your experience.
How To Get to Dujiangyan from Chengdu
The nearest city to Dujiangyan is Chengdu, and most travelers plan their trips to Dujiangyan when visiting Chengdu. There are various transportation options available, including by car, bus, and train.
The distance between Chengdu and Dujiangyan is approximately 59 km, which takes about one hour by car. Moreover, Dujiangyan is well-connected by public transport. Daily buses and trains operating to and from Chengdu, making it easy and convenient to plan a day trip. However, keep in mind that the attractions in Dujiangyan are somewhat spread out, so you will still need to arrange transportation to get around.
Traveling from Chengdu to Dujiangyan by high-speed train, the journey takes only 30 to 50 minutes, depending on your specific destination.
- Dujiangyan Railway Station (都江堰站) is located about 6.1 km from the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The journey takes 15 to 20 minutes by car or taxi. Alternatively, tourists can take Bus No. 4 from the station to reach either Dujiangyan Downtown or the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
- Lidui Park Station (离堆公园站) is situated only 1.8 km from the entrance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The journey takes about 5 minutes by taxi.
Traveling from Chengdu to Dujiangyan by bus is also convenient. You can take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Dujiangyan Bus Station, and the journey takes around one hour.
If you prefer a private car tour, this option is the most convenient and hassle-free. With a private car tour, you won’t have to worry about navigating between the attractions.
Things To do for Dujiangyan itinerary
We booked a private car tour that took us to several locations in Dujiangyan at a reasonable price, allowing us to enjoy a comfortable pace without any hassles. While it’s possible to visit Dujiangyan on your own, you’ll need to plan your transportation and consider the traffic conditions independently. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
Things To do for 1-Day Dujiangyan itinerary:
- Dujiangyan Panda Valley
- Selfie with Giant Panda Sculpture at Yangtianwo Square
- Dujiangyan Scenic Spot
- South Bridge (Nanqiao) Night View
- Guanxian Ancient Town
- Other attractions: Mount Qingcheng
- Recommended Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Chengdu Dujiangyan
The above Dujiangyan itinerary is quite flexible; you can adjust it based on your interests. For hassle-free arrangement, below are some tour option where you can consider:
- One Day Tour: Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain in SiChuan With Blue Tears Option.
- Private Group Tour: Dujiangyan, Panda Valley, Yangtianwo Square, Zhongshuge, Nanqiao Night View.
Dujiangyan Panda Valley
The first agenda for our Dujiangyan itinerary was to visit the Dujiangyan Panda Valley (都江堰熊猫谷) to see the rare and adorable giant pandas. It is a wonderful place to observe pandas in their natural habitat.
During my previous visit to Chengdu, I went to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. However, since we loved meeting the adorable pandas there, we didn’t want to miss the chance to visit Dujiangyan as well.
At the Dujiangyan Panday Valley, you can explore the giant pandas’ residences, where you’ll see them eating bamboo, playing, or climbing trees. We were also fortunate to spot a few rare red pandas during our visit. The facility is well-maintained, secure, and clean.
Compared to the Chengdu facility, the Dujiangyan Panda Valley park is smaller, less commercialized, and less hectic. Additionally, the panda enclosures are spacious, allowing us to get even closer to the pandas.
Dujiangyan Panda Valley (都江堰熊猫谷)
Opening time: Daily fom 8:00 to 17:30 (Best visit at morning as Pandas are more active).
Ticket price: CNY55 per person – Get the Entrance Ticket to Dujiangyan Panda Valley.
Time Needed: about 2 to 3 hours.
Selfie with Giant Panda Sculpture at Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square
Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场) features a massive panda sculpture that has become one of the landmark attractions of Dujiangyan. Designed by renowned Dutch artist Ferolentine Hoffman, this giant panda measures 26 meters long, 11 meters wide, and 12 meters high, weighing in at 130 tons. It is constructed from 3 million lacquered stainless steel wires.
The sculpture is depicted holding a selfie stick, with a giant LED screen designed to resemble a mobile phone camera, making it a fun and entertaining sight.
Many visitors come here to take pictures with the panda. While it may not be a must-visit attraction, it’s a great spot for photography if you’re in the area. Yangtianwo Square is open to the public and free to enter.
Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场)
Opening time: Always open, but best to visit at 10:00 to 20:00.
Ticket price: Free.
Time Needed: 15-30 minutes.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The next agenda for our full-day trip was to visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, located by the Minjiang River.
Built over 2,200 years ago during the Qin Dynasty, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰水利工程) is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and the world’s oldest water management project still in use today. It was designed to divert water without relying on traditional dams and has been instrumental in irrigating the Chengdu Plain.
Visitors to the Dujiangyan Scenic Spot can marvel at its ingenious waterworks while walking through scenic areas surrounded by mountains and lush forests.
Get the Entrance Ticket for Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Key attractions of Dujiangyan Scenic Area include the Yuzui (Fish Mouth), Feishayan Spillway, and Baopingkou Water Inlet, each meticulously designed to balance water distribution. This remarkable system has transformed the Chengdu Plain into a fertile “Land of Abundance,” a legacy that continues to thrive today.
Must-See Highlights on Dujiangyan Irrigation System Visit
The Dujiangyan Scenic Area is a huge area, and you will probably need to allocate about 3 to 4 hours to explore it. Here are some must-see highlights during your visit:
Anlan Suspension Bridge (安澜索桥) – This picturesque suspension bridge offers a fun and scenic experience. It is renowned as one of the top five bridges in ancient China. Crossing it is a unique and memorable experience; however, it can get overcrowded, which raises safety concerns.
Erwang Temple (二王庙) – Dedicated to Li Bing and his son, the masterminds behind the irrigation system, this temple offers breathtaking views of the river. Locals come here to pay their respects to these engineering pioneers, and you can see statues of Li Bing and his son on the grounds.
Fulong Temple (Fulongguan, 伏龙观) is a significant ancient structure located in the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can be found in Lidui Park. The existing buildings date back to the mid-Ming Dynasty, boasting a history of over 400 years, and they have been well preserved.
Qinyan Tower (秦堰楼) – Situated near the irrigation system, Qinyan Tower provides a bird’s-eye view of the entire area. Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Dujiangyan and the surrounding landscape.
Qinxi Garden (秦溪) – For a peaceful experience, stroll through the serene Qinxi Garden, which features traditional Chinese landscaping, including ponds, pavilions, and walkways.
Nanqiao (South Bridge, 南桥) – This bridge is another scenic spot, particularly in the evening when illuminated by colorful lights. It connects to the nearby city of Dujiangyan, making it a great location for a leisurely walk.
Entrance Fees and Opening Hours
The entrance fee for the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is CNY80 per person. If you would like to explore nearby Mount Qingcheng, you can purchase a combo ticket for about CNY155. The site opens daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends and during Chinese holidays.
Dujiangyan Scenic Spot (都江堰景区)
Opening time: Daily from 8:00 to 18:00.
Ticket price: CNY60 – Get the Entrance Ticket for Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours.
South Bridge (Nanqiao) Night View
On your way out, head to South Bridge, also known as Nanqiao, located next to the east entrance of Dujiangyan Irrigation Park.
South Bridge (Nanqiao, 都江堰南桥) is an ancient, roofed corridor-style bridge that spans the Inner River of Minjiang. It is the first bridge over the mother river of Chengdu.
Take some time to enjoy the cozy interior of Nanqiao. The bridge is often bustling with activity as friends and families gather to have fun, take pictures, and, most importantly, appreciate the view of the rushing water.
The Duqiangyan Nanqiao bridge is unique because its galleries function as an open-air museum, showcasing intricate wood carvings, traditional paintings, and calligraphy.
Don’t miss the stunning night view, as the riverside offers an enchanting experience after dark.
When night falls, the river shimmers in soft blue hues, creating a magical atmosphere known locally as the “Blue Tears.” Blue lights are turned on, contrasting beautifully with the yellow lights on the buildings. This transformation makes the riverside a captivating scene, making the bridge a must-visit destination for anyone seeking natural beauty and tranquility in the evening.
Guanxian Ancient Town
On the left side of the South Bridge, you’ll find the Guanxian Ancient Town (灌县古城). Like many ancient cities in China, it features stunning traditional architecture, along with a variety of local foods, snacks, and unique experiences.
The charming streets and alleys are lined with restaurants, shops that boast traditional Chinese roofing and facades, and some trendy bars. You’ll also find numerous shops that rent beautiful photo outfits. When it comes to dining options, there are plenty to choose from. You can enjoy authentic local street food or sit down for a meal with a lovely view of the water, though the latter tends to be more expensive.
Most of the shops and restaurants in the ancient town closes at 10 PM. Many locals and visitors are arrived around sunset to soak in the vibrant night market town atmosphere.
How Many Times for Dujiangyan itinerary?
You can visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System on a half-day trip at a comfortable pace. However, if you wish to explore additional attractions in Dujiangyan, such as the Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Mount Qingcheng, the South Bridge, and the charming shops and restaurants in Guanxian Ancient Town, it’s best to dedicate an entire day. This will give you the opportunity to fully enjoy all the main sights and appreciate the area more deeply.
If you plan to see the South Bridge Blue Tear night view, we also recommend staying overnight in Dujiangyan. Please note that the last train back to Chengdu from Dujiangyan departs at 9 PM.
Where To Stay in Dujiangyan
We chose to stay one night here as we didn’t want a rushed Dujiangyan itinerary. If you plan to spend the night near Dujiangyan, there are various accommodations available throughout the town, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options.
Some popular choices for where to stay in Dujiangyan include:
Hampton by Hilton Chengdu Dujiangyan: This upscale hotel is in a prime location, making it very convenient for travelers. It’s close to restaurants and shopping areas, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city with ease. The staff is super friendly, kind, and helpful.
Yue Lanli S Hotel (Dujiangyan DaRongcheng Store): This hotel is located in the city center, offering great convenience. Next to the hotel, there is a mall with many restaurants and a supermarket. It’s also easy to arrange Didi (a ride-hailing service) pickups. The staff is very nice and friendly, and the rooms are spacious and clean.
Holiday Inn Dujiangyan Ancient Town: A more budget-friendly option located in the heart of the city. This hotel is very clean and bright, with family rooms available, making it suitable for families with young children. It offers great value for money.
Overall: A Trip to Dujiangyan
All in all, Dujiangyan is an excellent destination to visit and explore, renowned for its impressive irrigation system, historical attractions, temples, and delicious food. The city offers a variety of transportation options, making it easy to navigate and plan your Dujiangyan itinerary. It’s a perfect spot for a day trip, and it can also be included in your plans if you’re visiting other attractions in Sichuan. Highly recommended!
If you want to get more inspiration on how to plan your travel to Chengdu (Sichuan), be sure to check out our travel blog below:
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- Chengdu Hotel Review: Mercure Chengdu ChunXi Taikoo Li Hotel
- Trip to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Xiongmao Jidi)
- Chengdu Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Chengdu
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