Compared to Suzhou and Hangzhou, I love this dreamlike Jiangnan of the northerners even more

Half is the earthly fireworks of life, half is a poetic and picturesque dream

This is the intoxication described by Li Qingzhao. Here, you can find the blue bricks and black tiles of Jiangnan, small bridges and flowing water, as well as crystal-clear springs everywhere. When night falls, the streets and alleys of Mingshui Ancient City are filled with the warmth of human life, and all of this deeply moves me.

Mingshui Ancient City
Address: Zhangqiu District, Jinan City, Shandong Province
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

How to get there?
High-speed train: Qingdao 1.5h | Beijing 2h | Shanghai 3h
Self-driving: Qingdao 3h | Beijing 4.5h | Flight: Shanghai 2h | Guangzhou 3h

Itinerary
Day 1: West Gate Visitor Center → Changhong Bridge → Mingshui Street → Meng Hongsheng Cloth Workshop → Meng Family Courtyard → Fox Fairy Garden Party → Ancient City Yashu → Song Dynasty Post Office → Lotus Banquet Area → Spring Show
Day 2: Morning Wine Market → Mo Spring → Longquan Temple → Baima Spring → Li Qingzhao Former Residence

Attractions

1. Longquan Temple, a thousand-year-old ancient temple, where the famous Baima Spring is located.
2. Rowing Boat, take a rowing boat to shuttle through the ancient city and experience the charm of the Jiangnan water town.
3. Meng Family Courtyard, the mansion of Mencius’ descendants, featuring the Meng Family Opera House with wonderful opera performances.
4. Li Qingzhao Former Residence, with numerous springs inside the courtyard, more spectacular than Baotu Spring; the water-covered steps are a must-visit spot.
5. Mingshui Street, a riverside street full of Jiangnan’s lively atmosphere, where you can feel the rich local culture and enjoy many special snacks.

Photo Spots

1. Around the Lotus Banquet (multiple bridges can be captured)
2. Spring Walk on Water (Mingshui Ancient City large character wall)
3. Meng Hongsheng Cloth Workshop (blue printed fabric)
4. The red walls of Longquan Temple are very photogenic, and there are Buddhist characters inside the temple.
5. City Wall (feels like Chang’an, perfect for Hanfu makeup and photos)
6. Rowing Boat (sit at the bow for a water town vibe)

Tips for Visiting

1. Mingshui Ancient City is in Zhangqiu; take the high-speed train to Zhangqiu Station.
2. At 9 AM, try the local breakfast specialties (sweet soup, tandoor baked flatbread, spring water lamb soup, etc.).
3. There are many special performances during the day and at night; check the Mingshui Ancient City mini-program for the show schedule.
4. For accommodation, the recommended Shuangquan Hotel offers shuttle buses and luggage transfer. The evening spring show has exclusive viewing seats.