Ancient Weir Painting Village is the Lishui excursion that most clearly feels worth the trouble. The scenic area spreads across both banks of the Ou River, with old wharves, lanes of traditional houses, bamboo boats, and a steady population of artists painting the water, trees, and low hills.
It is partly a tourist village, but the setting carries it. Go early or late for softer light, take the ferry crossing included in the ticket, and leave time to wander away from the busiest shop lanes.