Part Four. The Jiuliyang Irrigated Plain 九里洋水利系统

Abstract

This chapter outlines the irrigation systems of the Jiuliyang Irrigated Plain, discussing the main channels, secondary canals and sluice-gates of each irrigation system. It introduces the main temples of each of the higher order regional ritual alliances into which the different irrigation systems of the Putian plains are organized. The chapter also introduces the sub-cantons into which each irrigated plain was divided and provides maps of each sub-canton in each irrigation system. It outlines the ritual activities conducted during the Yuanxiao festival at the first full moon of the year. The birthday celebrations of those gods who receive special rites are then listed. The chapter includes some of the village entries discusses particular ritual groups active in a village, such as spirit mediums or tanban spirit medium altar associations.Keywords: Jiuliyang Irrigated Plain; Putian plains; tanban spirit medium altar associations; Yuanxiao festival