Escape the imperial capital in 2 hours! This northern "Little Jiangnan" is stunningly beautiful and is actually the hometown of Li Qingzhao!

Just 2 hours away🚄 Jinan, this seriously underrated "Little Jiangnan of the North," is absolutely amazing! "Often recalling the creek pavilion at dusk, intoxicated and unaware of the way home"🌅 Unexpectedly, the hometown of the talented poet Li Qingzhao, the ancient city of Mingshui in Zhangqiu, hides such a surprise! This 1,546-year-old ancient city is built above the Baima Springs, surrounded by green waters and gently rowing boats. Who dares say there’s no Jiangnan in the North~🎋 ✨Transportation Guide✨ 📍Location: No. 2017 Huiquan Road, Zhangqiu District, Jinan, Shandong 🚄Recommended High-Speed Train Trips: G1061 Beijing South → Zhangqiu North (Saturday 07:34-09:48 💰180) G1078 Zhangqiu North → Beijing South (Sunday 18:25-21:20 💰194) 🚌Bus: Zhangqiu Route 10 / Route 9 direct to the scenic area 🕒Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00 (April-October) / 9:00-20:30 (November-March) 💡2 Days 1 Night Highlights💡 【Day❶ Ancient City Stroll】 Visitor Center ➠ Confucian Merchant Street ➠ Cloth Workshop (must-see Washing Silk Girl performance!) ➠ Meng Family Courtyard ➠ Fox Fairy Residence (18:30 “The Legend of Lanruo Temple” show) ➠ Yamen (government office) ➠ Bean Grinding Workshop ➠ Sanwei Opera House (Zhangqiu Bangzi opera is stunning)🎭 【Day❷ In-Depth Spring Water Tour】 Li Qingzhao’s Former Residence (be sure to listen to the guide!) ➠ Shuyu Spring (a breathtaking photo spot) ➠ Plum Blossom Spring (five-eye fountain is amazing) ➠ Ink Spring (cozy tea brewing by the stove) ➠ Golden Mirror Spring (the reflections are incredible)🍵 🌈Must-Do Activities🌈 ☑️Rowboat Experience (60 RMB one way per person, a soothing ride on the springs) ☑️Hanfu Costume Change (choose Song, Ming, or Warring States robes, photo success guaranteed) ☑️Quanshow Performance (two shows every night, spectacular light and water curtain) ☑️Morning Wine Market (enjoy breakfast while listening to opera, full of local life vibes) 📸Hidden Photo Spots Recommendations 1⃣️Waterside Tea Stall (next to Plum Blossom Spring, perfect for reflection shots) 2⃣️Second Floor of the Dye Workshop (colorful fabric backdrop, maximum ancient vibe) 3⃣️Corner of Beihe Street (stone pavement + lantern walls, instantly transported to the Song Dynasty) ⚠️TIPS: 1. The electronic map of the scenic area is super useful! Includes show times and attraction info 2. It’s more cost-effective to buy a combo ticket (entry + boat + show all in one) 3. The night lighting creates a completely different atmosphere, don’t miss it 4. Nearby hotel recommendation: Ancient City Inn (5-minute walk, about 200 RMB per person) This hidden gem city so close to Beijing is truly worth a special trip to enjoy autumn! Ginkgo leaves everywhere + tinkling spring water + ancient-style architecture, every snap is a masterpiece✨