Geographical Location
The Li Bing River Patrol Statue stands proudly within the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, nestled along Lidui Park Road in Chengdu, Sichuan Province. This iconic spot sits alongside the Min River, offering stunning views of the waterway that flows through the heart of the ancient irrigation system. The statue is easy to find—just follow the crowds or listen for the sound of rushing water!
How to Get There
Reaching the Li Bing River Patrol Statue is a breeze. If you’re coming from Chengdu, take a short train or bus ride to Dujiangyan City (about 1 hour). From there, a 10-minute taxi or shuttle bus will drop you at the scenic area’s entrance. For a more immersive experience, walk along the riverside paths after entering the park; the statue appears suddenly, framed by lush greenery and mist-kissed mountains.
Natural Landscape
The setting of the Li Bing River Patrol Statue is nothing short of magical. Towering mountains loom behind it, while the Min River rushes below, carving a path through jagged rocks. In spring and summer, the air buzzes with the sound of cascading water, and autumn paints the surroundings in fiery reds and oranges. Winter, meanwhile, adds a serene stillness, with mist swirling around the statue’s base. It’s a perfect blend of human creativity and nature’s raw power.
Cultural Significance
The Li Bing River Patrol Statue honors a legend. Li Bing, a 2nd-century-BCE engineer, designed Dujiangyan—a feat of ancient engineering that still irrigates Sichuan’s farmlands today. The statue depicts him gazing thoughtfully at the river, symbolizing his eternal vigil over this masterpiece. Locals say he looks so real that visitors sometimes pause, half-expecting him to step down and explain the canals!
Visitor Facilities
The area around the Li Bing River Patrol Statue is packed with amenities. Nearby, you’ll find clean restrooms, souvenir shops selling Sichuan tea and handicrafts, and snack stalls serving hotpot and dandan noodles. For a deeper dive into history, the adjacent museum showcases Dujiangyan’s design with interactive models and ancient tools. There’s even a cable car offering bird’s-eye views of the river and statue.
Immersive Experience
Standing before the Li Bing River Patrol Statue, you can’t help but feel connected to Sichuan’s past. The statue’s bronze surface gleams in the sun, and its details—from Li Bing’s robes to the water patterns at his feet—are mesmerizing. At night, soft lighting illuminates the figure, creating a mystical atmosphere. Many visitors leave small stones or written wishes at the base, a modern tribute to this timeless guardian of the river.
Insider Tips
For the best photos of the Li Bing River Patrol Statue, visit during sunrise or sunset when the light casts long shadows across the river. Avoid peak holiday times if you prefer a quieter moment. And don’t miss the nearby Anlan Bridge—a rebuilt ancient bridge where you can snap shots of the statue framed by traditional Chinese architecture.
Final Thoughts
The Li Bing River Patrol Statue isn’t just a monument; it’s a window into Sichuan’s soul. Whether you’re fascinated by engineering, nature, or culture, this spot offers something for everyone. Come with curiosity, and you’ll leave with stories—and maybe a newfound appreciation for the genius of Li Bing.