Must-Try Foods In Dujiangyan Irrigation System (Chengdu) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Chengdu, China

The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an engineering marvel that dates back to the Warring States period, has played a vital role in the agricultural prosperity of the Chengdu Plain, known as the "Land of Abundance". This ancient system has facilitated the growth of a rich culinary culture in the region. The area's fertile soil and abundant water supply have given rise to a diverse range of crops, thus influencing the local cuisine of Chengdu. With a history steeped in Sichuan gastronomy, the culinary practices around Dujiangyan have evolved to include a variety of Sichuan dishes, renowned for their bold flavors, particularly the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns and the heat from red chilies.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Dujiangyan, Chengdu, China

1. Mapo Tofu (Non-Veg) - This spicy and numbing Sichuan dish combines tofu with minced meat (usually pork) in a bean based sauce, fermented black beans, along with Sichuan peppercorns.
2. Kung Pao Chicken (Non-Veg) - A classic Sichuan dish of chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers, known for its spicy and slightly sweet flavor profile.
3. Sichuan Hotpot (Both) - A popular communal dish, where an assortment of ingredients such as meats, vegetables, mushrooms, and noodles are cooked in a flavorful spicy broth.
4. Yuxiang Shredded Pork (Non-Veg) - Also known as fish-fragrant pork, this dish does not actually contain fish but is named after the seasoning mixture that is often used in Sichuan fish cookery.
5. Chengdu Cold Noodles (Veg) - These chilled noodles are served with a tangy, spicy sauce and are perfect for cooling down in the summer heat.
6. Twice Cooked Pork (Non-Veg) - Pork belly slices are boiled, then stir-fried with vegetables and a flavorful sauce that includes fermented black beans and chili peppers.
7. Sichuan Bean Jelly (Veg) - Known as Liang Fen, this dish is made with bean starch and served cold with a savory and spicy sauce.
8. Vegetarian Mapo Tofu (Veg) - A meatless version of the classic dish, using ingredients such as mushrooms or peas to provide a similar texture and flavor profile.
9. Dan Dan Noodles (Both) - A famous Sichuan street food dish that consists of a spicy sauce containing preserved vegetables, chilies, minced pork, and scallions served over noodles.
10. Sweet Water Noodles (Veg) - A sweet and spicy dish with a unique mix of flavors, including brown sugar, sesame paste, and soy sauce served with noodles.

Top Famous Restaurants in Dujiangyan, Chengdu, China

Shu Jiuxiang Hotpot Restaurant

Address: 123 Qingcheng Road, Dujiangyan, Chengdu

Famous Food: Sichuan Hotpot (Both)

Kong Liang Eel Noodles

Address: 22 Binjiang Middle Road, Dujiangyan, Chengdu

Famous Food: Eel Noodles (Non-Veg)

Zhenjiang Lou

Address: 89 Xingfu Road, Dujiangyan, Chengdu

Famous Food: Twice Cooked Pork (Non-Veg)

Lidui Park Noodle House

Address: Lidui Park, Dujiangyan, Chengdu

Famous Food: Chengdu Cold Noodles (Veg)

Old Chengdu Jiao Zi

Address: 45 Guanxian Old Street, Dujiangyan, Chengdu

Famous Food: Chengdu Dumplings (Non-Veg)