description Chengdu Plain Overview
The Chengdu Plain is a large, fertile alluvial plain in southwestern China’s Sichuan province. Shaped by the Min River and its tributaries, it's notable for extensive agriculture supporting a significant population. It primarily serves as a vital agricultural region and sustains a dense urban area, making it essential for residents and farmers within this subtropical zone.
insights Ranking position
Chengdu Plain ranks #14 of 237 in the Plain ranking, behind Nile Delta, ahead of Plains of Abraham.
help Chengdu Plain FAQ
What Chinese province is the Chengdu Plain located in?
The Chengdu Plain is located in Sichuan province in southwestern China. The city of Chengdu, the provincial capital, sits at the center of the plain. The alluvial plain was formed by sediments deposited by the Min River and its tributaries flowing from the Tibetan Plateau.
What ancient irrigation system made the Chengdu Plain fertile?
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed around 256 BCE by the Qin Dynasty engineer Li Bing, diverts and regulates water from the Min River to irrigate the Chengdu Plain. Remarkably, the system is still in operation today and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It enabled the plain to become one of the most productive agricultural regions in China.
Why is the Chengdu Plain called the "Land of Abundance"?
The plain has been nicknamed "Tianfu zhi guo" (Land of Abundance) since ancient times due to its fertile soil, reliable water supply from Dujiangyan, and temperate climate. These conditions supported continuous intensive agriculture and a large population. The nickname dates back at least to the era of the Three Kingdoms period, when the Shu Han kingdom was based there.
What crops are primarily grown on the Chengdu Plain?
The plain is a major producer of rice, wheat, rapeseed oil, and vegetables, enabled by year-round water availability from the Dujiangyan network. Rice cultivation is particularly important and supports multiple harvests per year. Sichuan's agricultural output from this region contributes significantly to China's food supply.
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