2h Escape from Beijing｜A Hidden Water Town in the North That Takes Your Breath Away

I used to think Jiangnan water towns were the epitome of poetic charm...
Until I visited Zhangqiu, the hometown of Li Qingzhao
Only then did I discover such tenderness in the north
Stone bridges over murmuring streams, rowing boats, summer fireworks, the moonlit West Tower
Staying two days amid such scenery
Finally, I understood the romance of "drunkenly forgetting the way home" 🪷

📍Location: Qingzhao Quancheng Mingshui Ancient Town, Jinan, Shandong
🚄Transport: Beijing South → Zhangqiu North (just 2h one way), then a 15min taxi ride
⏰Itinerary: Perfect for a weekend getaway (depart early Saturday, return Sunday afternoon)

🍃【Ultimate Itinerary】
Day❶ Visitor Center → Rowing Boat Ride → Fountain Show → Tiediehua (Iron Flower) at Dongma Bay → Fireworks Festival at Beima Bay → Night Walk & Open-air Movie on the City Wall
Day❷ Breakfast at Morning Market → Stroll Mingshui Street → Visit Mo Spring → Explore Baimai Spring → Tour Longquan Temple → Li Qingzhao’s Former Residence → Relax at Guilai Academy

📸【Must-See Highlights】
1⃣ Li Qingzhao’s Former Residence: Step into the home of the legendary poetess, where Plum Blossom Spring and Shuyu Spring evoke the Song Dynasty
2⃣ Baimai Spring Park: Enjoy chilled watermelon by Mo Spring, watch koi fish play in Longquan Temple—pure summer bliss
3⃣ Guilai Academy: A hidden gem on the ancient wall, offering panoramic views of the town, ideal for quiet reflection
4⃣ City Tower: The town’s iconic landmark—majestic by day, dazzling by night
5⃣ Mingshui Street: A lively retro district with theaters, fabric shops, fan workshops, and taverns—endless fun

🪷【Summer Spectacles】
1⃣ Fireworks Show: Beima Bay, Fri/Sat ~21:30
Against the ancient walls, with springs as the backdrop, the sky blooms like a dream from Li Qingzhao’s poetry!
‼️Best view: Opposite the "Qingzhao Quancheng" LED sign
2⃣ Fireworks Concert: Beima Bay, Sat 20:00
"Wind Rises" sparks nostalgia, with fireworks climaxing at the chorus—pure euphoria!
3⃣ Tiediehua (Iron Flower): Dongma Bay, Sat 21:00; Mon-Fri/Sun 20:30
1,600°C molten iron explodes into a starry sky🌠—a tear-jerking spectacle
4⃣ Open-air Cinema: City Wall, daily 20:00-22:00
Classic films under the stars, with breezes and ancient stones—utterly romantic
5⃣ Fountain Show & Drones: Daily 20:00
A must-see! Drones, lights, dancing fountains, and sparks blend tech with tradition—beyond words!

🪭【Unique Experiences】
1⃣ Morning Market: Local breakfasts like lamb soup, tofu pudding, and donkey burgers—delicious and affordable😋
2⃣ Rowing Boat: Drift under willow trees, fan in hand, soaking in the north’s watery poetry

🏨【Stay Tips】
Book in-town hotels (e.g., Yi’an Yue, Shuangquan) for early access and shuttle rides—crowd-free exploring!

Post by Stewart Christine Chrissy | Aug 9, 2025