Tongji Weir, Historical water management site in Lishui, China.
Tongji Weir is a historic water management site in Lishui that uses a system of gates and channels to direct water flow for agricultural irrigation. The structure demonstrates how water has been distributed across different field areas through engineering designed centuries ago.
The weir system was built in ancient times to secure water supply for fields in the region, demonstrating the technical knowledge of early Chinese engineers. It has retained its basic structure through centuries and continues to function today as a working irrigation system.
The name Tongji refers to the traditional practice of dividing water, a method that has shaped how communities here manage irrigation for generations. Walking through the site, you can see how farmers still rely on the gates and channels to direct water to their fields.
The site is freely accessible year-round with no entrance fee, allowing you to explore the historical water structures at your own pace. It is well positioned for independent visits and works well for those interested in studying the engineering methods used by ancient builders.
The weir system still functions today much as it did in ancient times, actively irrigating fields in the region. This makes it a rare example of ancient engineering that remains not just preserved but actually alive in daily use.
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