With a population of around 800,000 and covering over 1,200 square kilometers, Dujiangyan boasts clean air, lush forests, and a balance between tradition and modernity. During my visit, I found myself unexpectedly reminded of my hometown, Kigali, Rwanda. From its quiet, green environment to its peaceful energy, Dujiangyan felt like home.
When I landed in Sichuan Province, something clicked almost instantly. The calm streets, the green scenery, and the fresh air made me feel like I had returned to Kigali. Within thirty minutes of arriving in Chengdu, I found myself breathing deeply and smiling without even realizing it. The streets weren't crowded, and trees were everywhere. Nature seemed to take the lead hereâ€"just like back home.
Every street in Dujiangyan whispered stories of peace and connection. I saw how a city could hold onto its cultural soul while still welcoming the new. It's that same harmony I've always loved about Kigali, and finding it in Dujiangyan was both surprising and heartwarming.
Dujiangyan's ancient town is more than just a historic areaâ€"it's a living symbol of China's frontier trade history. Once a key stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road and the connection point between Chengdu and the Aba Autonomous Prefecture, this area was a thriving center for goods, travelers, and culture.
Centuries ago, it bustled with merchants and traders who built prosperous businesses such as teahouses, inns, cloth shops, and even money exchange shops. The commercial vibrancy of the town earned it the nickname 'Small Chengdu.'
Today, the charm of that era lives on through its well-preserved architecture and winding stone streets, making it a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the soul of old China.
During my visit, I had the honour of listening to Li Huaqiang, Deputy Director of the Sichuan Foreign Affairs Office. In his speech, he highlighted how Dujiangyan has become not only a national ecological model and cultural treasure, but also an international partner.
"Chengdu stands alone as the world's only megacity where skyscrapers share the horizon with 6,000-meter snow-capped peaks. For 15 consecutive years, it has topped the list of the Happiest Cities in China. It's a city you won't want to leave once you arriveâ€"and one you'll always want to return to," Li said.
The city is part of 10 international organizations and has built friendly relations with 36 cities across countries such as France, Germany, Japan, and the U.S.
Li emphasized the city's commitment to openness and sustainable growth, noting how Dujiangyan continues to be a bridge between cultures and a model for integrated development.
Technological progress
Despite its deep roots in history, Chengduâ€"which administers Dujiangyan as a county-level cityâ€"is a symbol of technological progress. The city is home to several groundbreaking enterprises that reflect China's rapid development and innovation.
One of the companies I visited was Sichuan Huati Lighting Technology Co., Ltd., established in 2004. It stands out as the first and only mainboard-listed company in the road lighting field in China. With designations such as National Industrial Design Center and Green Factory, Huati is helping lead the way in sustainable city lighting solutions.
Another major player in the city's industrial rise is TGOOD, a firm founded by German and Chinese engineers. It specializes in power distribution solutions such as prefabricated substations and switchgear.
Also based in nearby Chengdu is China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd. (CSWADI)â€"one of China's largest architectural firms, known for its blend of historical preservation and futuristic design.
Christian Mugisha
