Mulanbei, Historical reservoir in Putian, China.
Mulanbei is a historical irrigation system in Putian built with channels and storage structures designed to direct water to agricultural lands. The site shows how water was distributed across different elevation levels to water fields across a wide area.
The system was established many centuries ago to support agricultural output in the region by providing reliable water supply. Over time, subsequent generations of engineers improved and refined the structures to enhance water distribution efficiency.
The site remains woven into the fabric of local life, connecting residents through shared memories of irrigation traditions and water management practices passed down through families. People gather here to maintain awareness of how farming communities once depended on such engineering for their survival.
The site is accessible for visitors to view the channels and structures up close and understand how the system operated. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the terrain can be uneven and parts of the area run alongside water.
The design used natural slope and gravity to redirect and distribute water without requiring additional mechanical force. This approach allowed large quantities of water to be moved across great distances while consuming minimal energy.
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