Jinan’s Version of the “Red Flag Canal”: In-Depth Travel Guide to Qunying Aqueduct

Hidden in Liubu, Nanshan, Jinan, the Qunying Aqueduct is a water conservancy marvel from the 1970s and a vivid landmark engraved with the spirit of “Yu Gong Moving Mountains.” This massive stone structure spanning a gorge remains a beautiful, less-crowded secret spot. This guide will help you unlock all its charm. Key Highlights: Touching a Half-Century Engineering Legend • Architectural Wonder: Construction began in 1975, with over a thousand stonemasons and laborers from more than 60 villages building it by hand in just two years. The fully stone structure, about 100 meters long and 24 meters high, has withstood the elements and remains as sturdy as ever. The upper level serves as a walking and viewing platform, while the lower level channels fresh water from Huangchao Reservoir for irrigation, showcasing the ancestors’ ingenious three-dimensional design. • Spiritual Imprint: The side of the aqueduct is engraved with the eight characters “Yu Gong Moving Mountains, Self-Reliance,” and the stone at the bridgehead reads “Mountain Battle Professional Team Built in 1977,” silently telling the passionate story of those “battling heaven and earth.” If you meet the village’s old builders, you might hear firsthand tales of carrying stones on their shoulders and chiseling the aqueduct by hand. • Natural Wild Charm: Nestled in a high, forested gorge, the aqueduct overlooks a babbling stream and scattered strange rocks. In spring and summer, lush greenery creates a natural oxygen bar; in winter, occasional small ice waterfalls appear. From an aerial view, it looks like a giant dragon stretching across the mountains. Practical Guide: Pitfalls to Avoid and Photo Tips Transportation and Navigation • Best by Car: Navigate directly to “Xishan Stone Bridge.” After crossing Liubu Bridge and seeing the “Xishan Village” rock landmark, turn onto the mountain road. After passing Majiagou, turn left at the house with a mural depicting the era, then park near the nearby viewing platform. • Notes: The mountain road is narrow, prone to congestion and limited parking on holidays. It’s recommended to start early on weekdays and park away from villagers’ travel paths. Travel Tips • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, with spring mountain flowers and autumn’s colorful foliage. Summer is great for cooling off by the stream under the bridge, while winter visitors should watch for icy stone steps. • Photo Spots: The viewing platform offers panoramic shots of the aqueduct; the upper walkway is perfect for close-ups of stone carvings; the gorge below captures the grandeur of the “aerial canal.” Every snap has a vintage, timeless feel. • Safety Reminder: Some paths down to the bridge base are rough and rocky; wear non-slip shoes. Stay away from the water channel edges and watch over elderly and children. Nearby Attractions: Unlock a One-Day Nanshan Tour 1. Morning: Arrive at Qunying Aqueduct, stroll along the stone trough, explore the valley beneath the bridge, and immerse yourself in the blend of engineering and nature. 2. Noon: Head to the area around Huangchao Reservoir, where several farmhouses offer local cuisine. Try the authentic big pot stew for a taste of mountain flavors. 3. Afternoon: Visit Huangchao Waterfall for water play and sightseeing, enjoying the scenic zigzag mountain road; or check out nearby ancient villages to experience Nanshan’s slow-paced life. 4. Return Snack: In the city, stop by Puli Street for Mu De’s Lao Zhou Family Beef Pancakes or Da Guan Yuan’s Youxuan Zhang to satisfy your taste buds. Conclusion The Qunying Aqueduct, free of admission and crowds, offers a dual shock of engineering marvel and spiritual strength. Here, every stone holds a story, every arch connects to the past. It’s a place to visit with reverence and engage in a dialogue with time.