Publications
A Textual Research on Cui Yuan’s Alleged Water Management Merits to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Historical records suggest that the renowned Eastern Han dynasty official Cui Yuan served as Magistrate of Guan County and contributed significantly to the governance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. However, this study challenges that narrative by analyzing authoritative texts such as the History of the Later Han and the Sichuan General Gazetteer. The research concludes that there is no credible evidence supporting Cui Yuan's involvement in the system's maintenance or governance, thereby revising long-standing historical assumptions. This textual analysis relies on cross-referencing multiple historical sources to assess consistency and reliability, ultimately determining the improbability of Cui Yuan’s alleged contributions.
Civilization Perseveres
A comprehensive analysis reveals the resilience of cultural heritage in the Wenchuan earthquake-affected region, highlighting its significant historical and cultural value. The study quantifies the area's rich heritage, including one UNESCO World Heritage Site (the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project), 49 state-protected sites, 225 provincial-level sites, and 684 county-level preservation areas. These findings underscore the importance of preserving such sites, which include diverse cultural landmarks like Mount Qingcheng and the Dazu Rock Carvings, as well as homelands for ethnic minorities such as Tibetans, Qiangs, and Huis. The research employs statistical data from the State Administration of Cultural Heritage of China to provide a detailed overview of the region's heritage landscape, emphasizing its enduring significance despite natural disasters.
Key Technical System for Water Resource Scheduling in Digital Twin Irrigation Areas with Multi-technology Integration Construction and Application Verification
A new digital twin irrigation system, integrating multi-technology solutions, has achieved significant advancements in water resource scheduling. This system, tested across multiple large-scale irrigation districts including the UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, demonstrated a 4.17% to 8.57% water savings and reduced scheduling workload by 60%. Key innovations include integrated intelligent perception for open channel measurement, physical model-machine learning fusion for water demand prediction, and 'four pre-processes' water allocation strategies. The system's digital twin simulation covers the entire process of perception-prediction-allocation-control, achieving a typical channel measurement coverage rate of 86.11% and a crop water demand prediction accuracy (NSE coefficients) above 0.94. This scalable solution offers a reproducible model for intelligent water management in irrigation districts.
New concept in ecological governance of rivers and lakes in China: opportunities and challenges
China's river and lake governance is undergoing a significant shift from engineering-centric approaches to an integrated, basin-scale model that prioritizes ecological sustainability. This transition, driven by institutional innovations and cross-sectoral coordination, has improved water-use efficiency and ecosystem health. However, persistent challenges such as regional water scarcity, emerging pollutants, and governance constraints threaten long-term progress. The study synthesizes historical data, policy documents, and technological advancements to highlight the effectiveness of the 'ecological priority and systematic governance' framework while emphasizing the need for stronger legal frameworks and institutional resilience. These findings offer both theoretical insights for China's water management system and practical lessons for global governance efforts.
Psychophysical evaluation of celebrity cultural heritage landscapes: scenic beauty and semantic perception at Zhang Daqian’s sites on Mount Qingcheng
A dual-layer structure underpins public perception of heritage landscapes at Mount Qingcheng: natural topography serves as the perceptual foundation, while cultural imprints form the semantic core. This study quantifies how scenic beauty and semantic meaning interact in celebrity cultural heritage spaces using a psychophysical framework combining Scenic Beauty Estimation (SBE) and Semantic Differential (SD) methods. Analyzing 17 built-environment samples from Zhang Daqian’s sites, researchers found that monuments and material remains rely heavily on explicit symbolic cues to evoke meaningful responses. Sense of Cultural Accumulation and Sense of Place Identity emerged as primary perceptual drivers, explaining 92.1% of the variance in landscape perception. The findings provide a replicable model for enhancing heritage landscape legibility and place identity, offering evidence-based strategies for cultural heritage planning.
River–Canal Changes in the Middle Reaches of the Minjiang River (1644–1949): Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Mechanisms
A comprehensive analysis of the Minjiang River's middle reaches reveals distinct spatiotemporal patterns of river-canal changes from 1644 to 1949, shaped by a complex interplay of human intervention and natural forces. The study identifies four subregions with unique driving mechanisms: Inner River (human-dominated), Outer River (flood-stressed), Nanhe River (low-disturbance stable), and Lower Basin (natural-human composite). Using archival documents, historical maps, remote sensing imagery, and water cultural heritage sites, researchers quantified changes such as anthropogenic constructions and environmentally driven alterations. They found that population growth drove human-led interventions, while floods and canal maintenance failures exacerbated environmental changes. This research offers new insights into long-term human-water interactions in large irrigation districts under climate change.
A Method for Constructing Open‐Channel Velocity Field Prediction Model Based on Machine Learning and CFD
A novel machine learning and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based method achieves high-precision real-time prediction of open-channel velocity fields, addressing challenges posed by rapid water-level fluctuations. Applied to the Renmin Canal of China's UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan Irrigation System, this approach integrates adaptive optimization of flow data characteristics with CFD simulations, yielding predictions that align with known hydraulic principles while offering practical value for irrigation system design and maintenance.
Identification and Evolutionary Characteristics of Regional Landscapes in the Context of Rural Revitalization: A Case of Dujiangyan Irrigation District, China
Over the past two decades, the Dujiangyan Irrigation District—a UNESCO World Heritage Site central to Chengdu’s rural revitalization—has experienced significant landscape transformations. Research reveals a sharp decline in idyllic agricultural landscapes (from 36.20% to 73.59%) alongside rapid growth in village woodlands and groves, driven by policies promoting urban-rural integration, ecological agriculture, and forestry protection. Urban settlement landscapes have expanded steadily, while low-hill forest landscapes show modest growth. These changes, analyzed through literature reviews, field surveys, and remote sensing data from 2000–2020, highlight the tension between modern development and heritage preservation in this culturally significant region.
Livelihood status and adaptation strategies of ethnic mountain households: Evidence from Sichuan, China
Ethnic mountain households in Mount Qingcheng, Sichuan, China, face significant livelihood challenges characterized by low human capital (education, health, and vocational skills), limited natural and physical capital (cultivable land, housing quality, production tools), restricted financial access, and weak social networks. Despite these constraints, larger family sizes correlate with higher household incomes and cultivable land areas, which positively influence dwelling quality, financial security, and loan accessibility. Adaptation strategies rely heavily on agriculture, off-farm income activities, social networks, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), and migration for work. The study underscores the need for continuous development programs to safeguard cultural heritage while enhancing livelihood security for these communities.
Research on Habitat and Species Diversity of Spontaneous Plants in the Dujiangyan Canal Corridors
A comprehensive survey of spontaneous plants in the Dujiangyan Canal Corridors, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, reveals significant variations in species composition, diversity, and life forms across six distinct habitats. The study identified 257 plant species, with native plants comprising the largest proportion (42.02%). Hard revetment habitats exhibited the lowest species richness and diversity, likely due to anti-seepage materials used for irrigation efficiency. Conversely, wastelands showed the highest family, genus, and species richness. The research highlights the critical role of ferns in hard revetments and the adaptability of Papermulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) in wasteland and self-use vegetable plot habitats, suggesting their potential for ecological restoration. These findings underscore the importance of habitat-specific plant community construction and dynamic monitoring to sustain biodiversity in irrigation areas.
Perception Study of the Conservation and Utilization of Linpan Cultural Landscape Heritage: The Case of Dujiangyan City
A perception study of Linpan cultural landscape heritage reveals that indigenous villagers in Dujiangyan City generally support the conservation of water systems and fields, recognizing its vacation and health benefits. The research found a preference for land market transfers, particularly for arable land and homesteads, while also highlighting significant differences in perceptions based on location and local characteristics. Conducted through questionnaire surveys and quantitative analysis, this study provides valuable insights into villagers' perspectives on Linpan conservation and utilization, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing factors in cultural landscape revitalization efforts.
A Study on the Dynamic Mechanism of Community Participation in the Construction of Giant Panda National Park -- Taking Longxi Hongkou National Nature Reserve in Dujiangyan Irrigation Project City as an Example
A comprehensive framework for mobilizing community participation in the construction of national parks, such as the Giant Panda National Park, has been developed. This study identifies that effective engagement hinges on three key drivers: residents' interests, established systems, and a sense of identification with the project. Using push-pull theory and empirical data from Longxi Hongkou Nature Reserve within Dujiangyan Irrigation Project City, researchers found that sustainable development can be achieved by integrating these factors into park construction efforts. The approach combines qualitative methods like interviews and questionnaires to provide actionable insights for balancing ecological protection with community involvement.
Assessing Land-Use Conflict Potential and Its Correlation with LULC Based on the Perspective of Multi-Functionality and Landscape Complexity: The Case of Chengdu, China
Land-use conflicts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, are exacerbated by competing demands for multi-functional land use. A study reveals that high conflict potential emerges when both functional suitability and landscape complexity thresholds are exceeded, often necessitating land consolidation or adjustments. Researchers developed a 1 km resolution model to assess these conflicts using LULC data from 2000–2020, identifying spatial patterns of 'high-low' combinations. This approach offers a quantitative framework for territorial planning in protected areas facing urban sprawl pressures.
Dujiangyan irrigation system and its over 2,200 years of sustainable development
The Dujiangyan irrigation system, a dam-less water diversion project, has sustained operation for over 2,200 years by ingeniously leveraging local terrains and water dynamics. It achieves gravity-based irrigation while flushing siltation through flow dynamics, demonstrating remarkable engineering resilience. Beyond its functional significance in China's unification, the system embodies profound water management philosophies rooted in ancient Shu culture, encapsulated in texts like the Three-character Classic and Eight-character formula. These philosophies form a rich core of water culture, inspiring sustainable development practices globally. The study highlights the system's dual value: as an engineering marvel and a cultural heritage that continues to influence modern water governance approaches.
A Review on the Post-Earthquake Emergency Conservation Project of Fulong Taoist Temple
The post-earthquake emergency conservation project for the Fulong Taoist Temple, part of the UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan Irrigation System, demonstrated rapid and effective restoration of cultural heritage. Damaged by the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, the temple was fully restored in just 18 months using innovative conservation principles and techniques. This review highlights the project's historical significance, as recognized by the Asia-Pacific Heritage Protection Award, and provides insights into its technical methods. The successful restoration underscores the importance of emergency conservation strategies for preserving cultural heritage in disaster-prone regions.
Daoism and Sacrifices to the Five Sacred Peaks in Tang China (618–907)
During the Tang Dynasty (618–907), Daoist practices significantly influenced state sacrifices to China's five sacred peaks, with Mount Qingcheng playing a central role. Research reveals that the establishment of shrines and temples dedicated to these peaks was largely due to the recommendations of the influential Daoist master Sima Chengzhen under Emperor Xuanzong (r. 712–756). These constructions served as Daoist abbeys, integrating religious practice with political functions by praying for the state, emperor, and people, rather than replacing the existing state sacrifice system. The study highlights how imperial authority later permeated Daoist sacred geography, while the elevated status of Daoist Perfected Ones and Transcendents became prominent in Tang folklore.
Research on the Effect of Authenticity on Revisit Intention in Heritage Tourism
A study at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, reveals that authenticity significantly boosts tourists' revisit intention through memorable experiences and emotional attachment to the site. Using cognitive appraisal theory, researchers analyzed data from 596 valid responses via structural equation modeling, demonstrating that perceived authenticity not only directly influences revisit behavior but also indirectly shapes it by fostering positive emotional connections with heritage destinations. This finding provides a theoretical framework for enhancing tourist loyalty in heritage tourism, offering actionable insights for site managers and policymakers aiming to sustain long-term visitor engagement.
The willingness to pay for agricultural irrigation water and the influencing factors in the Dujiangyan irrigation area: An empirical double-hurdle model analysis
A study reveals that farmers' willingness to pay for agricultural irrigation water is significantly influenced by factors such as age, education level, participation willingness, arable land area, and water-saving awareness. The research, conducted using a double-hurdle model on data from 335 farming households in the Dujiangyan Irrigation Area, Sichuan, China, found that while higher water prices deter payment, water-saving awareness positively impacts willingness to pay. The findings underscore the need for strengthened water-saving training, promotion of agricultural modernization, and scientifically formulated water price standards to encourage sustainable water management and farmer participation.
Ancient WEF: Water–Energy–Food Nexus in the Distant Past
Ancient WEF systems demonstrate long-term sustainability and minimal tradeoffs between water, energy, and food. The study highlights two pre-common era examples—Persian qanats and China's Dujiangyan irrigation scheme—that harnessed local resources and expertise to stabilize agriculture in arid regions. Both systems relied on ingenious infrastructure and decentralized governance, devolved decision-making authority to users, which persists today despite modern challenges like climate change. This suggests that historical WEF governance models may offer valuable insights for contemporary sustainability efforts.
Stem Embedded in the Dujiangyan Irrigation System: A Descriptive - Interpretive Analysis to Design Stem Course
A groundbreaking analysis reveals that the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed 2,275 years ago by Li Bing during China's Warring States period, inherently embodies STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) principles. This study, leveraging cultural-historical activity theory and content analysis, identifies key STEM components within the system—such as hydraulic principles, cobblestone construction techniques, water-level measurement, and mathematical calculations for sand discharge. By integrating these findings with UNESCO's educational pedagogy of learning from daily life, this research offers a novel framework for designing globally applicable STEM curricula rooted in cultural-historical events. The approach provides a replicable model for incorporating interdisciplinary knowledge into education, bridging historical engineering marvels with modern pedagogical strategies.
Sustainability of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System for over 2000 Years–A Numerical Investigation of the Water and Sediment Dynamic Diversions
A numerical investigation reveals the hydrodynamic and topographical mechanisms that have sustained the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (DIS) for over 2300 years, allowing it to automatically divert water and sediment while mitigating flood risks. The study demonstrates how the system leverages natural features—such as river morphology and hydrology—to discharge excess sediment and floodwater downstream, ensuring environmental sustainability without human intervention. Researchers developed a two-phase flow model based on Shallow Water Equations (SWEs) and coupled it with a Sediment Mass (SM) model to simulate fluid and sediment dynamics under varying discharge conditions. Findings highlight the system's ability to harness natural forces for long-term resilience, offering insights into ancient engineering solutions that remain effective today.
The Retreat of the Human: Processes of Rewilding after Warfare in Sichuan, China
Decades of warfare during the Late Ming and Early Qing dynasties in Sichuan, China, led to a dramatic population decline, triggering significant environmental changes. The study reveals that the neglect and collapse of the Dujiangyan irrigation system, due to labor shortages, resulted in rewilding of agricultural landscapes. This process was further marked by a reversal in predator-prey dynamics, with tigers proliferating and becoming a common threat. Tiger attacks were interpreted as symbols of social failure, reflecting the tension between humans and their environment. The research highlights the intricate relationship between human activity and ecological systems, demonstrating how historical upheavals can reshape landscapes and species interactions.
Impact of culture and natural disasters on residents' behaviors toward eco-environmental conservation: Sichuan province case studies
A comparative analysis of Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Jiuzhaigou National Park in Sichuan Province reveals that cultural heritage and natural disaster awareness significantly influence residents' pro-environmental behaviors. The study, using multi-group structural equation modeling on 642 valid questionnaires, found that altruistic values and eco-environmental beliefs strongly predict conservation actions, with no significant differences between the two sites despite variations in personal norms and daily habits. These insights underscore the importance of cultural education and disaster preparedness in sustaining ecological conservation efforts at tourist destinations.
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