Exploring Jinan's Lesser-Known Mountain Park

Jinan's autumn is hidden in every fallen leaf of Jinji Ridge Mountain Park. Here is an autumn travel guide to help you experience the wild charm of the forest. Basic Information • Address: Located in the southeast of Dougou Subdistrict Office, Shizhong District, Jinan City. You can navigate to "Jinji Ridge Mountain Park" or "Liyang Lake." • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. • Admission: Free. Transportation Guide • Bus: Take K43 and get off at Shunyu Community, then walk about 1.66 km to reach the park; or take K28 and get off at Liyang Street on Tourism Road, then walk about 789 meters. • Self-driving: You can park at Qilishan Parking Lot, or at Qingshui Spring Parking Lot or Baihua Park Parking Lot, but parking spaces are limited, so it is recommended to arrive early. Autumn Highlights • Mountain Forest Autumn Colors: The park is covered by forest over 90%, and in late autumn, the vegetation dominated by Chinese arborvitae is dotted with red-leaf plants like smoke tree. In the mountain valleys, red hues appear among the lush greenery, creating a poetic and picturesque scene. • Sunset Scenery: At dusk, standing on the mountaintop looking west, the sunset dyes the sky orange-red. The distant peaks and city buildings are draped in a golden veil, resembling a fairyland. Hiking Route Start from the viewing bridge at the easternmost part of Liyang Lake and head east along the slope road to reach the mid-mountain. You may encounter local residents and pets along the way. Continue forward to see the Twelve Zodiac Stone Carving Array, then climb the stone steps to the northernmost peak of Jinji Ridge, where you can overlook the cityscape. Afterwards, head south from the northern hilltop, passing scenic spots like Wangfo Terrace, and finally descend the stone steps on the south side leading to Liyang Lake. The entire route offers a blend of forest wilderness and urban scenery. Recommended Check-in Spots • Shunlong Cliff Stone Carvings: Featuring the "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl" relief and dozens of "dragon" character stone carvings in various calligraphy styles copied by masters, carved over 8 years by a retired elder. It holds high artistic value. • Mountaintop Viewing Platforms: Such as Zhankiu Pavilion and Wangfo Terrace, where you can overlook the city embraced by surrounding peaks and appreciate the harmony of nature and urban beauty. Most paths in the park are stone steps with gentle slopes, but please pay attention to safety while hiking. Additionally, the park is an important ecological barrier. Please do not damage vegetation or litter during your visit to help protect the natural environment.