In a global celebration of water and heritage, four sites in the Chinese mainland have earned a spot on the World Heritage Irrigation Structures list. Announced at the 76th International Executive Council Meeting of the International Commission on Irrigation & Drainage in Kuala Lumpur, these landmarks showcase centuries of human ingenuity in managing water.
The newly inscribed sites include the Yuanyang Hani Terraces in Yunnan, a mosaic of hilltop paddies carved by Hani ancestors; the Chishan Lake Irrigation System, an intricate network supporting local biodiversity; the Jianjiangyan Irrigation System, a testament to ancient hydraulic engineering; and the Mentougou Ancient Canals of the Yongding River, which have nourished communities near Beijing for generations.
Each site tells a unique story—from terraced rice fields that transform mountain slopes into vibrant mosaics, to canals that channel life-giving water across vast distances. For travellers and digital nomads, these locations offer immersive journeys through living history and sustainable landscapes.
With these additions, the Chinese mainland now boasts 42 sites on the WHIS list, reflecting a growing global appreciation for water heritage. As climate change and resource challenges rise, these structures remind us that traditional wisdom and modern innovation can flow together.
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4 Chinese sites added to World Heritage Irrigation Structures list
cgtn.com
