A bird's-eye view of Mingshui Ancient Town in Zhangqiu district, Jinan. [Photo/WeChat account: jinanshibao1996]

The long-awaited Mingshui Ancient Town in Zhangqiu district, Jinan officially opened to visitors on Oct 1.

During the trial operation over the eight-day holiday, which was from Sept 29 to Oct 6, Mingshui Ancient Town was so popular that visitors came in an endless stream. It is estimated that the cumulative number of visitors to Mingshui Ancient Town exceeded 100,000 during the holiday.

Upon entering the scenic area, visitors are first greeted by the natural waterscape. Visitors can enjoy the landscape by taking a dark-awninged boat. The ancient buildings and Zhangqiu-themed streets cannot be missed.

Further inside is the upgraded Baimai Spring Park, with many lively springs such as Moquan Spring, Plum Blossom Spring, and Shuyu Spring.

Integrating Zhangqiu's characteristic spring culture, culture of scholar merchants, and culture of Li Qingzhao – a famous female poet in Song Dynasty (960-1279), Mingshui Ancient Town brings visitors a rich experience. Visitors can not only enjoy the spring but also watch acrobatics, taste delicious food and enjoy folk art.

Mingshui Ancient Town will be open to local Zhangqiu residents for free from Oct 7 to Apr 30, 2024, excluding legal holidays.

Visitors can make ticket reservations through an official account or mini-program. The daily reservation limit is 5,000 people. Residents can make reservations in advance according to their travel arrangements.

Visitors swarm Mingshui Ancient Town in Zhangqiu district, Jinan. [Photo/WeChat account: jinanshibao1996]