[2025 Jinan Attraction] Travel Guide for Daming Lake Scenic Area - Chaoran Pavilion (Updated Oct)

Here's a must-visit sentimental cafe from your last trip! 🩷 The river view from the outdoor seating is truly breathtaking. You can enjoy a relaxing time in a tranquil atmosphere while gazing at the gently flowing river. The interior is warmly lit and cozy, and they even sell merchandise! It's a great place to visit with friends, a significant other, or family. Their signature shaved ice and tiramisu are their signature dishes, exquisitely smooth and sweet. Enjoy them with coffee or tea to melt away all the fatigue from your trip. It's the perfect place for a quiet rest and healing!

Jinan 3 Days 2 Nights Autumn Viewing Guide! Spend about 1200 RMB per person to check in at Red Leaf Valley, Qianfoshan Mountain, and Daming Lake, see the forests dyed in autumn colors, stay at a springside guesthouse, and discover local hidden photo spots. --- Autumn in the north, Always arrives quietly with a cool breeze. In Jinan, the autumn atmosphere "burns" from the valley— When the sumac, maple, and torch trees in Red Leaf Valley layer into a red glow, The entire valley seems ignited, Reflected on the clear lake surface, as beautiful as an oil painting. This specially tailored 3-day 2-night deep autumn tour guide in Jinan takes you into Red Leaf Valley, known as "the most beautiful red leaf viewing spot in northern China," while linking classic landmarks like Qianfoshan Mountain, Daming Lake, and Baotu Spring. Enjoy authentic Shandong snacks, stay in artistic guesthouses in the old city, all for just 1100–1300 RMB per person. Perfect for couples, families, and photography enthusiasts! --- Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Jinan → Baotu Spring + Wulongtan + Qu Shui Ting Street Slow Life Take the high-speed train directly to [Jinan Station], then walk into the old city. First stop in the afternoon: [Baotu Spring Park] (Entrance fee 40 RMB) ✅ Watch the "Number One Spring Under Heaven" with its three streams gushing endlessly ✅ Photograph the ginkgo leaves falling with the ancient pavilion in the background (recommended in front of the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall) Next, visit the free and tranquil [Wulongtan], where autumn maple leaves float on the water like a poetic scene. In the evening, stroll along [Qu Shui Ting Street]: small bridges, flowing water, tea fragrance in the air, full of local life. Dinner recommendation: Try Chaoyixing fast food’s pork belly rice bowl + Four Happiness Soup, authentic and affordable! >🏡 Accommodation suggestion: Choose a distinctive guesthouse near Daming Lake or Spring City Square for convenient travel the next day. --- Day 2: Full-day immersive autumn viewing — Red Leaf Valley + Qianfoshan Mountain hiking and sightseeing ✅ Morning: Head straight to [Red Leaf Valley Ecological Cultural Tourism Area] (Entrance fee 80 RMB, sightseeing bus 30 RMB extra) 📍 Address: 3 km south of Jinxiu Chuan Reservoir, Licheng District, Jinan (about 40 minutes from downtown) 🚌 Transportation: - Self-driving is highly recommended (convenient parking, circular route available) - Or take bus No. 65 to "Red Leaf Valley West Gate" stop 🌟 Must-do route in Red Leaf Valley (highlights): 1. After entering, take the sightseeing bus to the mountaintop [Xuanqiu Lake] to overlook the magnificent panorama of red leaves and clear water intertwined 2. Walk down the mountain, passing through [European Style Valley] with colorful wooden houses and red leaf backgrounds, perfect for photos 3. Pass through [Lily Garden] and [Rose Garden] (quiet paths despite no flowers in autumn) 4. Finally arrive at the [Jinxiu Chuan Reservoir] viewing platform, with distant mountains and nearby forests dyed in autumn colors 📸 Photography Tips: - Best time: before 9 AM or between 3-4 PM, soft light with no backlight - Must-shoot spots: Xuanqiu Lake boardwalk, European Style Valley slope, mountaintop viewing platform corridor ✅ Afternoon: Return to the city to climb [Qianfoshan Mountain] (Entrance fee 30 RMB) → Climb to [Guanyin Garden] for panoramic views of Spring City → Walk along Mile Shengyuan Trail to admire the color-changing sumac, framed with the city skyline → Find a hidden viewpoint: east slope of Lishan Courtyard, fewer people and beautiful scenery Before evening, head to [Jiefang Pavilion], climb the ancient city wall to see the moat lights flowing, feeling the blend of history and modernity. At night, visit [Kuanhouli Snack Street], try a freshly made Youxuan (fried dough twist) + salty-sweet Mo, experiencing old Jinan breakfast philosophy. --- Day 3: Autumn charm of Daming Lake + Cultural stroll in Mingfu City → Return The last stop is [Daming Lake]—no need to wait for summer lotus bloom, autumn at Daming Lake is more open and poetic. ✅ North shore lakeside trail: ginkgo leaves cover the ground in golden yellow ✅ In front of Nanfeng Opera House: photograph drooping willows, withered lotus, and reflections ✅ Beside Tie Gong Shrine: chance to meet folk artists playing the pipa On the way, walk into [Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural District], where white walls and gray tiles hide intangible cultural heritage workshops and spring tofu shops. Buy a cup of direct spring water (2 RMB/cup), crisp and sweet, the freshest taste of autumn. Leave according to your return schedule, ending a gentle and healing autumn in Spring City. --- 💰 Cost Breakdown (per person): - 🚄 Round-trip high-speed train ticket: about 300 RMB (example from within the province) -🏡 Two nights in distinctive guesthouse/comfortable hotel: about 400 RMB - 🎫 Total entrance fees: about 150 RMB (Baotu Spring 40 + Red Leaf Valley 80 + Qianfoshan 30) - 🚌 Transportation: about 60 RMB (including taxi/bus to and from Red Leaf Valley) - 🍽 Food and snacks: about 200 RMB ✅ Total: about 1100–1300 RMB --- Exclusive Jinan Autumn Viewing Tips: -✅ Best viewing period: late October to mid-November → Red Leaf Valley peak: first week of November (sumac at its reddest) → Ginkgo viewing spots: Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, Shandong University Hongjialou Campus (mid to late November) - 📸 Must-shoot spots list: → Red Leaf Valley Xuanqiu Lake boardwalk: red leaves + clear water + reflections → European Style Valley colorful wooden houses: Japanese forest style photo vibe → Baotu Spring Wanghe Pavilion: ginkgo leaves dancing with spring water → Daming Lake Chaoran Tower side corridor: autumn water blending with the sky -🧣 Travel advice: big temperature difference between morning and evening, wear a windbreaker + scarf; bring a thermos with hot water; wear non-slip shoes (some paths in Red Leaf Valley are slippery) --- Autumn in Jinan, Is not a momentary brilliance, But a slowly unfolding feast. From the fiery Red Leaf Valley, to the gentle Baotu Spring, To a cup of hot tea on Qu Shui Ting Street— It uses mountains, water, and culture To write an autumn love letter to all travelers. This autumn, Would you like to visit Jinan, Stand on the mountaintop of Red Leaf Valley, And say to the world: "I see the green mountains are so charming, surely the green mountains see me the same way."?

Jinan 3 Days 2 Nights Autumn Viewing Guide! Stay in a springside guesthouse for about 1000 RMB per person, watch the red leaves dye Qianfoshan Mountain, listen to the tinkling spring water, and discover the locals’ secret “autumn-only” experiences fully revealed. Who says autumn in the north is only bleak? In Jinan, autumn is warm— It’s the three streams of water bubbling with ginkgo leaves floating on Baotu Spring, It’s the layers of red and yellow forests beneath Qianfoshan Mountain, It’s the everyday life of elders carrying bird cages in Wulongtan Park. This old city, known as the “Spring City,” quietly dons a golden-red coat from late October to mid-November. This 3-day 2-night in-depth autumn tour guide is specially designed for autumn viewing, helping you avoid crowds, check in at the best scenic spots, enjoy a bowl of authentic sweet mo, all for only 900~1100 RMB per person. Students and families can easily set off! 📅 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Jinan → Baotu Spring + Wulongtan + Qu Shui Ting Street Slow Life Take the high-speed train directly to [Jinan Station], then walk into the old city. First stop in the afternoon: [Baotu Spring Park] (ticket 40 RMB) ✅ Watch the “Number One Spring Under Heaven” gush from three streams ✅ Capture the scene of ginkgo leaves falling with ancient pavilions (recommended in front of the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall) Then walk to [Wulongtan], a free and lesser-known secret spot where autumn maple leaves reflect in the pond, peaceful and picturesque. Evening stroll at [Qu Shui Ting Street]: Small bridges, flowing water, and homes; grandmothers shelling peanuts at the door; the sound of Shandong storytelling from teahouses. Must-eat dinner: Chaoyixing Fast Food (Jinan locals’ canteen), try the pork belly rice bowl + four-happiness soup, authentic and affordable! Day 2: Climb Qianfoshan Mountain to enjoy red leaves + Liberation Pavilion night view Set off early to [Qianfoshan Mountain] (ticket 30 RMB), the prime spot for autumn viewing in Jinan! ✅ Climb to [Guanyin Garden] to overlook the whole city, with a distant view of the Olympic Sports Center and CBD ✅ Walk the [Maitreya Victory Garden] trail, where yellow smoke trees, maples, and ginkgoes intertwine like an oil painting ✅ Find the hidden viewpoint: the slope east of Lishan Courtyard, fewer people, beautiful scenery, perfect for photos In the afternoon, visit the [Shandong Museum] (free, reservation required) to see Han dynasty pottery figurines and bronzes, avoiding the midday chill. In the evening, head to [Liberation Pavilion], climb the ancient city wall to watch the lights flow over the moat, framed with the Spring City Square music fountain. Recommended dinner: Kuanghouli Snack Street, try a bowl of youxuan (freshly baked, crispy and flaky) + sweet mo (savory five-grain porridge), experience old Jinan breakfast philosophy. Day 3: Autumn charm of Daming Lake + stroll in Mingfu City → Return trip The last day is dedicated to [Daming Lake]—no need to wait for summer lotus blooms, autumn Daming Lake is even more spacious and poetic. ✅ North shore lakeside trail: ginkgo leaves cover the ground in golden yellow ✅ In front of Nanfeng Opera House: photograph drooping willows, withered lotus, and reflections ✅ Beside the Tie Gong Shrine: chance encounter with folk artists playing the pipa On the way, walk into [Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural District], where white walls and gray tiles hide intangible cultural heritage workshops and spring water tofu shops. Buy a cup of spring water (2 RMB/cup), clear and sweet, the freshest taste of autumn. Return according to your train schedule, ending a gentle and healing autumn in Spring City. 💰 Cost Breakdown (per person): 🚄 Round-trip high-speed train ticket: about 300 RMB (example from within the province) 🏡 Two nights in a featured guesthouse/comfortable hotel: about 400 RMB (recommended near Daming Lake or Spring City Square) 🎫 Total tickets: about 70 RMB (Baotu Spring 40 + Qianfoshan 30, others free) 🍽 Food + snacks: about 200 RMB 🚌 Local transportation: about 30 RMB (bus + taxi) ✅ Total: about 900~1100 RMB 🌟 Autumn Exclusive Tips: ✅ Best time to view autumn: October 25 – November 15 → Ginkgo: Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, Shandong University Hongjialou Campus → Yellow smoke tree/red leaves: mainly the south slope of Qianfoshan Mountain 📸 Must-shoot spots: → Baotu Spring Wanghe Pavilion: ginkgo + spring water + pavilion in one frame → Behind the giant Maitreya Buddha on Qianfoshan: city and mountain forest together → Side corridor of Chaoran Building at Daming Lake: autumn water blends with the long sky 🧣 Travel advice: big temperature difference between morning and evening, wear a windbreaker + scarf; bring a thermos with hot water Jinan’s autumn, doesn’t rely on intense colors, but a kind of calm gentleness— like a warm cup of donkey-hide gelatin jujube tea, slowly warming your heart. It doesn’t say “Welcome,” but tells you with every tinkling spring water sound: “I’ve always been here.” This autumn, would you like to take a trip to Jinan, and listen to a dialogue between falling leaves and history? Leave a comment and tell me: what does your “most beautiful autumn” look like?🍂

🚩 Itinerary Overview Core Experiences: Spring Cluster Walk × Ancient City Night Banquet × Fireworks and Food Accommodation Plan: ✔ Stay in the main urban area around "Spring City Square" for convenient night tours (recommended Bai Yulan Hotel, 10-minute walk to Baotu Spring) ✔ Stay the last day in "Mingshui Ancient City" for an immersive vacation (choose Qingzhao Yue Hotel, includes ancient city ticket + Hanfu experience) Cost Reference: Accommodation 400 + Dining 300 + Transportation 100 = 800 RMB/person 📅 DAY 1: Daming Lake Night Banquet ▫ 18:00 Chaoran Tower Lighting Ceremony Best Spot: East side of the tower at the "Waterside Pavilion" for reflections, capture the lighting moment at 19:10 Fun Fact: Chaoran Tower was originally built in the Yuan Dynasty, rebuilt in 2008, but the plaque is an authentic work by Su Shi ▫ 20:00 Daming Lake Boat Ride (Night cruise 40 RMB/person) Hidden Route: Choose the "Jiaxuan Shrine → Lixia Pavilion" route, the night view of the lake island is super dreamy 🍜 Late Night Snack Guide: "Lao Zhou’s Beef Biscuit": Open 24 hours, biscuit with meat served with lamb offal soup (still queues at 2 AM) 📅 DAY 2: Spring City Walking Day (5 km Highlight Route) ▫ 8:30 Baotu Spring (Ticket 40 RMB) Off-peak Tip: Enter from East Gate → head straight to Three Springs → take photos at Li Qingzhao Hall for empty shots Bonus: There is a free spring water drinking point in the corner of Wanzhuyuan, bring an empty bottle to fill "Shuyu Spring" ▫ 10:00 Black Tiger Spring (Free) Immersive Experience: Spend 5 RMB to buy a big bowl of spring water tea, watch locals fetch water (for photos at Liberation Pavilion, choose the west stone steps) ▫ 12:00 Dong’s Restaurant (Average 25 RMB/person) Hidden Menu: Ask the auntie to make "Milk Soup with Pu Cai" using spring water, refreshing and cuts greasiness ▫ 14:00 Qushuiting Street Artistic Activity: Buy sour dipping sauce at "Qifeng Bridge" (heritage version of candied hawthorn), get a spring water stamp at "Jinan Story" bookstore ▫ 16:00 Pearl Spring (Free) Entry Secret: Tell the guard you are "visiting the CPPCC Conference Center," tested and no problem 📅 DAY 3: Mingshui Ancient City Immersive Tour ▫ 10:00 Ancient City Check-in (Ticket 128 RMB) Must-Photo Spots: 1⃣ Meng Family Courtyard Embroidery Tower (filming location of "The Story of Minglan") 2⃣ Yefang Street Water Mist Installation (sprays mist on the hour like a fairyland) Night Tour Bonus: Saturday 20:00 drone show + fireworks, best viewing spot at "Huashen Temple" 🍜 Ancient City Food: "Spring Water Feast": Rainbow trout sashimi, spring water tofu, about 80 RMB per person, a bit pricey but worth the experience ⚠ Pitfall Avoidance Guide Transportation: Baotu Spring → Black Tiger Spring is best by bike (15 minutes along the moat greenway), taxi can get stuck in traffic Spring Water: For direct drinking, look for "Black Tiger Spring" and "Pipa Spring," other springs have unstable water quality Photography: After Chaoran Tower lights up, crowds gather; switch to "Nanfeng Opera House" for lake night views 🍜 Local Food Highlights ✔ Breakfast: Sun’s Sugar Fried Dough (candied fritters + sweet soup, 5 RMB fills you up) ✔ Main Meal: Chunshui Potstickers must order "Pu Cai Pork Potstickers" + "Nine-Turn Large Intestine" ✔ Dessert: Near Uncle Gui’s Duck Blood Vermicelli, "Spring Water Tea Soup," heritage stone mill freshly brewed 🎐 Special Tips Baotu Spring "Three Springs" best viewing period is September to November (water flow strongest after rainy season) Guests staying in Mingshui Ancient City can rent Hanfu for free, light colors recommended for better photos ✨ The gentleness of Jinan is the tinkling sound of elders fetching water by Black Tiger Spring, the ripples of willow branches brushing tea bowls on Qushuiting Street, and the satisfying feeling of swallowing the cool spring water in summer

"Spring City" Jinan: Explore the northern landscape with just 500 yuan per person, where spring water gently brews tea! Jinan is not only the capital of Shandong Province but also a poetic ancient city nourished by 72 famous springs. It lacks the southern humidity and heat, and the northern desolation. In spring and autumn, gentle breezes brush your face, spring water trickles through the city, and by Daming Lake, there is the legend of Summer Rain Lotus, while beside Baotu Spring lies the gentle hometown depicted by Lao She. More importantly—attractions are concentrated, prices are affordable, and transportation is convenient. An ordinary person can fully enjoy the highlights in just two days and one night! 🌸 Best months to visit: March - May, September - November April-May: Warm spring with flowers blooming, Baotu Spring gushes most vigorously, and cherry blossoms bloom at Wulongtan; September-October: Crisp autumn air, perfect time to climb Qianfo Mountain, with clear and sweet spring water; ❌ June-August is hot (up to 38°C), and winter (December-February) is cold and dry, with some spring water attractions less impressive. ✅ Recommended time: Mid-April or late October, pleasant climate, fewer tourists, and great for photography. 🕐 How many days are suitable? 2 days and 1 night is enough to cover all the highlights. ✅ Day 1: Old City Core · Spring Water Stroll Start from Jinan High-Speed Railway Station/West Station, take a bus directly to the city center. Itinerary: Morning: Check in at [Baotu Spring Park] (ticket 40 yuan) — the number one spring in the world, three streams boiling and rolling; Visit [Wulongtan Park] (free) nearby — dense spring pools, great fun for kids to play in the water; Lunch at [Furong Street] with a bowl of Youxuan + Sweet Mousse (Youxuan 3 yuan, Sweet Mousse 5 yuan), experience the lively atmosphere of a century-old snack street; Afternoon stroll through [Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural District] → [Daming Lake Scenic Area] (large free area!) — no ticket needed for boating, walk along the lake to enjoy "lotus flowers on four sides and willows on three sides"; Evening climb [Chaoran Tower] to watch the lighting moment (every night at 18:00), the lights are dazzling and dreamlike. Stay at an economical hotel or guesthouse near Daming Lake, double room about 180 yuan/night. ✅ Day 2: Qianfo Mountain + City Culture Wrap-up Take a bus to [Qianfo Mountain Scenic Area] (ticket 30 yuan), climb to the top for a panoramic view of Jinan, visit Xingguo Zen Temple and Wanfo Cave. After descending, visit [Shandong Provincial Museum] (free, reservation required) or [Jiefang Pavilion] to remember history. Return in the afternoon, relaxed and easy. ⚠️ Tip: No need for a one-day tour group! All attractions are accessible by bus, walking + shared bike is the most pleasant way. 💰 Budget for ordinary travelers (per person): Round-trip transportation: High-speed train second class ≈ 200 yuan (convenient for intra-province and neighboring cities) City transportation: Bus + shared bike ≈ 30 yuan Accommodation: Comfortable hotel ×1 night = 180 yuan Meals: 60 yuan per day ×2 days = 120 yuan (Baizi meat 15 yuan, average Shandong cuisine under 40 yuan) Tickets: Baotu Spring 40 + Qianfo Mountain 30 = 70 yuan (half price with student ID!) Other expenses ≈ 30 yuan Total: Only about 630 yuan! 📌 Tips: Download the "369 Travel" app to check real-time bus arrivals; Some attractions offer free or discounted admission with student ID or ID card; The lighting at Chaoran Tower in Daming Lake is a popular moment, arrive half an hour early to secure a spot; Bring your own water bottle, Jinan has many direct drinking water points in scenic areas; Not recommended to eat in the center of Furong Street, prices are higher, better to walk into small alleys for more affordable options. ✅ Must-see highlights: Baotu Spring gushing spectacle: three springs leap together, water sounds like drums, "always so lively" as described by Lao She; Daming Lake Chaoran Tower night view: a rare northern pavilion light and shadow feast; Qianfo Mountain summit view: the entire Spring City in sight, the Yellow River winding east like a ribbon; Baihuazhou water alley morning light: bluestone paths, willows brushing your face, like a miniature Jiangnan. 🔚 Conclusion: Jinan is unpretentious but tells you what "every home has spring water, every household has willows" means with pools of clear springs. Two days and one night, less than 700 yuan, for a slow life experience in a northern water city. Come, take a sip of jasmine tea brewed with spring water, and quietly stroll through this underrated city.

Jinan Roaming Guide🌊 Put the romance of the City of Springs in your pocket! "Lotus flowers on four sides, willows on three, half the city is mountains, half the city is lake"—Jinan’s romance is hidden in the bubbling springs, caught in the evening breeze of Daming Lake, and wrapped in the crispy fragrance of youxuan (fried dough twists)～ This super comprehensive guide will unlock countless ways to enjoy the City of Springs!💫 📍Must-visit Attractions (with hidden tips) 1. Baotu Spring💰40 RMB Come see the wonder of the "three streams" bubbling up! Arrive before 7:30 AM to catch fewer crowds and great shots of the "Baotu Spring shooting up"🌊. Don’t forget to try the 6 RMB spring water tea in a big bowl and bite into the Baotu Spring-themed creative ice cream (lotus/spring water shapes are super cute🍦). The poetry wall in the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall is perfect for photos~ 2. Daming Lake🆓 (Chaoran Tower💰40 RMB) Take a 50 RMB painted boat ride on the lake and see the weeping willows on both banks from the "Xiayuhe perspective"🌿. Stay until evening to catch the Chaoran Tower lighting up (around 7:00 PM); the moment the lights come on feels like stepping into an ancient painting! While strolling along the lake, look out for the "Lao She and Jinan" themed sculpture, great for artsy photos~ 3. Qianfoshan (Thousand Buddha Mountain)💰30 RMB Take the cable car up the mountain (one way💰20 RMB) for a breathtaking panoramic view of Jinan! Touch the "Fuyuan Stone" at the summit to wish for good luck😉. Try the slide on the way down (💰30 RMB)—whoosh, super stress-relieving! The ancient Buddha stone statues in Xingguo Zen Temple add a historical filter to your photos📜. 4. Heihu Spring🆓 Watch three tiger-head spring outlets gush out with great momentum! Bring an empty bottle to collect the spring water—clear and sweet💧. Take a 10 RMB moat boat ride from Heihu Spring to Baotu Spring, drifting under bridges and through alleys like floating in a painting~ On the shore, elderly men crack whips and sing Lü opera, full of local life vibes! 5. Qushuiting Street🆓 "Every home has spring water, every household has weeping willows" describes this place! Buy a skewer of candied hawthorn (💰8 RMB) as a prop, sit in a waterside teahouse listening to Shandong storytelling🎤, with the sound of flowing spring water at your feet—it feels like traveling back to the Ming and Qing dynasties~ 🍜Foodie Must-Try List - The pinnacle of Shandong cuisine: Kuishengju’s Nine-Turn Intestines (sweet, salty, slightly spicy, the more you chew the more fragrant😋), Yanxitang’s Sweet and Sour Carp (crispy skin, perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce) - Breakfast essentials: Youxuan (crispy flaky outside, savory filling🧇) + Tianmo (savory millet porridge, perfect with fried dough sticks), recommended "Youxuan Zhang" - Bazirou (braised pork) freedom: Chaoyixing’s Bazirou (fat and lean layers, pouring it over rice is heavenly🍚), add tiger-skin green peppers for just over 10 RMB, great value! - Night market party: Rush to Huanlian Night Market! Grilled sweet potato slices (amazing with pickled radish), Plum Blossom Cake (hot, sweet red bean filling🌸), hand-shaken lemon tea (thirst-quenching magic), you won’t want to stop eating while strolling~ 🚗Transport & Accommodation Tips - Transport: Metro lines 1 and 2 cover main attractions, use the "369 Travel" app for 20% off scanning codes🚇; shared bikes are super convenient for weaving through old streets and alleys, remember to wear a helmet~ - Accommodation: ✨For convenience: choose around Quancheng Square, All Seasons and Atour are a 10-minute walk to Baotu Spring ✨For romance: stay near Daming Lake in a guesthouse, open the window to lake views, fall asleep to frog croaks at night🐸 ⚠️Avoid Pitfalls - Don’t buy fish food at Baotu Spring entrance, feeding is prohibited inside❌ - Furong Street is heavily commercialized, snacks are less authentic than at Huanlian Night Market - Don’t take the "sightseeing flower car" at the scenic spot entrance, it’s expensive and prone to traffic jams; taxis are more cost-effective🚕 Take this guide and go on a spring water date in Jinan～ Guaranteed you’ll fall in love with this slow-paced City of Springs!💕

Follow the Footsteps of Poetry in Shandong: From Baotu Spring to the Foot of Mount Tai, a Millennium of Cultural Heritage As a destination consumption guide blogger, I will take you along the traces of poetry to touch the literary pulse of Shandong’s three thousand years between the clear waters of Baotu Spring and the sea of clouds of Mount Tai. This guide includes both poetry interpretations and practical tips, allowing you to savor “poetry and distant places” as you travel. 🌟 Itinerary Overview Day 1: The Poetic Charm of the City of Springs · Leisurely Tour of Jinan Baotu Spring Park → Daming Lake → Qu Shui Ting Street → Furong Street Food Day 2: Connecting the Mountain City · Cultural Transition Thousand Buddha Mountain → Travel to Tai’an → Dai Temple → Night Market at the Foot of Mount Tai Day 3: The Majestic Mount Tai · Poetry Summit Mount Tai Red Gate Climbing Route → Zhongtian Gate → South Heavenly Gate → Jade Emperor Peak → Return Trip 🌊 Day 1: Stories of Jinan in the Poetic Charm of the City of Springs Morning: Baotu Spring · The Millennium Ode of “Water Surging Like a Wheel” “The source of Luoshui is unmatched in the world, gushing from flat ground like a white jade pot” — Baotu Spring, described by Zeng Gong, is the soul of Jinan. - Poetry Check-in Spots: 1. At the main spring area, appreciate the Qianlong Emperor’s inscription “The Number One Spring Under Heaven,” and compare it with the grandeur of Yuan Dynasty Zhao Mengfu’s “Clouds and mist moisten the Hua without pause, the sound of waves shakes Daming Lake.” 2. In the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall, recite “Ru Meng Ling” in front of the stele inscribed with “One should be a hero while alive,” feeling the delicate spirit of the “wordsmith by Shuyuxuan Spring.” - Practical Tips: Admission 40 RMB; enter before 7:30 AM to photograph the spring eye without crowds, grab a bottle of direct drinking water, and taste the “first sweetness of the City of Springs.” Afternoon: Daming Lake · “Half the City is Lake, Half is Mountain” A 10-minute walk from Baotu Spring to Daming Lake, confirming Liu Fenggao’s poetic imagery of “lotus flowers on four sides, willows on three sides.” - Poetry Stroll: 1. Read Xin Qiji’s “Looked at the Wu hook, tapped the railing all over” inside Jiaxuan Shrine, feeling the bold style of his poetry; 2. Recite poems related to “Magpie Flower Autumn Scenery” in front of Chaoran Tower, and wait for the evening lights to create a charming interplay of light and poetry. Evening: Qu Shui Ting Street · The Lively Atmosphere of “Every Household Has Spring Water” Along the street, see the scene of “clear spring water flowing over stones,” sit in a “spring water teahouse” and order a pot of jasmine tea, watch elderly people washing clothes on the stone pavement, echoing Lao She’s praise: “Jinan is truly a treasure land.” For dinner, try the oil spiral bread with sweet soup on Furong Street, about 20 RMB per person to taste the old Jinan flavor. ⛰️ Day 2: From the City of Springs to Mount Tai · Continuation of Cultural Heritage Morning: Thousand Buddha Mountain · The Ancient Charm of “Enjoying Chrysanthemums on Buddha Mountain” Climb to the top of Thousand Buddha Mountain to Xingguo Zen Temple, read the stele with Du Fu’s “This pavilion is ancient on the sea’s right, Jinan has many famous scholars” (original poem written at Lixia Pavilion, here is a replica). Near the “Tang Huai Pavilion” on the mountainside, under the ancient locust tree, you can copy the inscriptions of Qing Dynasty poets. Admission 30 RMB; cable car one-way 20 RMB to save energy. Afternoon: Travel to Tai’an · Seeking Poetry at Dai Temple Take the high-speed train from Jinan West Station to Tai’an in 22 minutes, then a 10-minute taxi ride to Dai Temple (the starting point of Mount Tai). - Must-See Highlights: 1. In front of Tiankuang Hall, read Su Shi’s “Sea Market Poem” stele, feeling the imagination of “Eastern sea of clouds, empty again and again”; 2. Touch the millennium-old cypress in the Han Cypress Courtyard, recalling Cao Cao’s heroic ambition of “An old steed in the stable still aspires to gallop.” Admission 30 RMB; the soft evening light is perfect for photographing ancient architectural silhouettes. Evening: At the Foot of Mount Tai · Fireworks and Poetry Stay at a hotel near Mount Tai Red Gate (recommended Tai’an Mercure Hotel, 5-minute walk to the climbing entrance), have dinner trying Tai’an fried chicken (recommended “Old County Government Fried Chicken,” about 60 RMB per person), paired with local beer to build up excitement for the next day’s climb. 🏔️ Day 3: Climbing Mount Tai · The Magnificence of “Standing on the Summit” All day: Mount Tai Poetry Hiking Route - Red Gate Start: The giant stone at the entrance is engraved with Du Fu’s “How is Mount Tai? The green of Qi and Lu never ends,” serving as the climbing declaration. - Zhongtian Gate: Rest here and read Li Bai’s “A long whistle at the Heavenly Gate, ten thousand miles of fresh wind come,” recommended to buy a bag of Tai’an roasted chestnuts (10 RMB/bag) for energy. - Eighteen Bends: Look up at the steep stone steps, silently recite the ancient verse “The stone path winds perilously in the air,” it is recommended to take the cable car (one-way 100 RMB) to save energy for the summit view. - Jade Emperor Peak: Recite the full text of “Looking at the Mountain” in front of the “Supreme of the Five Sacred Mountains” inscription; when the sea of clouds surges, you will understand the mood of “My chest stirs with the clouds, my eyes follow the returning birds.” - Descent Tips: Take the scenic area shuttle bus (30 RMB) down to Tianwai Village, a 30-minute ride, to avoid knee strain. 📍 Transportation and Accommodation Guide - Transportation: Jinan → Tai’an high-speed train 22 minutes (ticket 28 RMB), taxi starting fare in Jinan city 8 RMB, Mount Tai scenic area combined ticket (bus + cable car) 130 RMB. - Accommodation: In Jinan, choose near Spring City Square (All Seasons Hotel about 200 RMB per person), in Tai’an stay near Red Gate climbing entrance (Orange Crystal Hotel about 180 RMB per person). 🍽️ Food List in Poetry ✅ Must-eat in Jinan: - Braised pork with rice (recommended “Chao Yixing,” fatty but not greasy, echoing “rice flowing with fat, millet white”); - “Spring Water Tofu Pudding” by Baotu Spring, paired with oil spiral bread for authenticity. ✅ Must-try in Tai’an: - Mount Tai fried chicken (served with flatbread dipped in soup, full of “Qi Lu flavor and lively atmosphere”); - Summit “Tai’an Three Delicacies Soup” (cabbage, tofu, spring water, fresh and poetic). ⚠️ Pre-trip Tips 1. Poetry gear: Print poetry cards of “Looking at the Mountain,” “Ru Meng Ling,” etc., to compare with real scenes for a more immersive experience. 2. Climbing preparation: Mount Tai is 1545 meters high, wear non-slip shoes, bring one bottle of water (5 RMB/bottle at the summit), and a light jacket for spring and autumn. 3. Off-peak tips: Baotu Spring is less crowded before 10:00 AM; for Mount Tai, Wednesday and Thursday are recommended to avoid weekend peaks. Traveling Shandong with poetry, you will find every drop of spring water hides a verse, every mountain stone is engraved with cultural heritage. The budget per person is 1200-1500 RMB, allowing you to both climb Mount Tai to express heroic feelings and savor poetry by the spring. Follow me to unlock more cultural travel experiences~ 🌿

💧 "Jinan 5 Days 4 Nights · Slow Life by the Springs" Budget: 3600 RMB | Stay in Qushuiting Street | Listen to the springs gurgle | Drink a bowl of Tianmo | Be a "local" of old Jinan📍Itinerary Theme: City of Springs · Old Alleys · Qilu Culture · Local Life📅 Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights💰Total Budget: 3600 RMB (per person, comfortable and leisurely trip)🎯 Suitable for: Students / Couples / Solo travelers / Those who enjoy a slow pace, love drinking spring water, and love breakfast--- ✅ Budget Details (Total: 3600 RMB) | Item | Details | Amount | |------|------|------| | Round-trip Transportation | High-speed rail second-class seat (starting from Beijing) | 525 × 2 = 1050 RMB | | Local Transportation | Subway + Bus + Shared bikes + Some taxis | 150 RMB | | Accommodation (4 nights) | Artsy B&B/Comfortable hotel (around Daming Lake/Quancheng Road, average 550 RMB/night) | 2200 RMB | | Dining (5 days) | Average 80 RMB/day, including spring water banquet, breakfast, snacks | 400 RMB | | Attraction Tickets + Experiences | Including Thousand Buddha Mountain, museum, spring water tea, etc. | 200 RMB | | Souvenirs + Contingency | Crispy pancakes, Pingyin roses, spring water tea bags | 600 RMB | | Total | | 3600 RMB |> Day 1: Arrive in Jinan · First Encounter with "Springs in Every Household" -🚄 Arrive at Jinan Railway Station (Daming Lake is a 10-minute walk from the exit, super convenient!) -🏨 Accommodation Recommendation: - Qushuiting Street/Houzaimen Street artsy B&Bs - Recommended: Parker Apartment · Springside Courtyard, Minghu B&B - Features: River view from the window, gurgling springs, walking distance to major attractions - Afternoon: 1. Daming Lake (✅ Free access area) - Stroll through "lotus on four sides, willows on three," check in at Chaoran Tower (40 RMB to ascend, night light show is super stunning) 2. Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural Block - Old Jinan residential style, with spring pools, small bridges, intangible cultural heritage shops - Evening: - Stroll along Qushuiting Street: - Watch residents wash vegetables and brew tea with spring water, experience the unique sight of "springs flowing through homes" - Dinner Recommendation: - Caobao Baozi Shop (old branch): Pork and green onion buns + Sweet and sour carp (average 40 RMB per person)> Day 2: Spring Cluster Tour · From Baotu Spring to Wulongtan - Morning: 1. Baotu Spring Park (Ticket 40 RMB) - "The No. 1 Spring in the World," see three streams of water gushing (especially spectacular during high water season) - Detour to: Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall (inside the park) 2. Shuyu Spring & Mapao Spring: Listen to the springs gurgle, feel "the spring eye silently cherishes the trickling stream" - Noon: - Lunch Recommendation: - Kuishengju (time-honored Lu Cuisine): Stir-fried pig intestines with nine turns, stir-fried pork kidney (average 60 RMB per person) - Or street snacks: Youxuan (2 RMB/piece) + Tianmo (3 RMB/bowl) - Afternoon: 1. Wulongtan Park (Ticket 5 RMB) - Free koi feeding, crystal clear spring water, kids' favorite 2. Lianquan & Guanjia Pool (✅ Free) - Local water fetching spot, bring your own bottle for direct drinking spring water (boiling recommended) - Evening: - Kuanhouli Pedestrian Street: - Jinan's version of "Kuanzhai Alley," but with more local flavor - Must-eats: Huangjia Roasted Meat, Bazirou, Jinan BBQ--- Day 3: Ascend and Look Far · Thousand Buddha Mountain and FoHui Mountain - Morning: 1. Thousand Buddha Mountain (Ticket 30 RMB) - One of Jinan's three major scenic spots, about 1 hour to climb - Check in: Xingguo Temple, Giant Maitreya Buddha, Shun Ancestral Temple - Ascend to overlook Jinan city, gaze at the Yellow River in the distance - Noon: - Simple meal at the summit or bring your own dry food - Afternoon: 1. FoHui Mountain Scenic Area (✅ Free) - Few people and quiet, with "Kaiyuan Temple Ruins" and "Big Buddha Head" - Autumn foliage is stunning, suitable for hiking 2. Can detour to Longdong Scenic Area (optional for outdoor enthusiasts, requires stamina) - Evening: - Return to the city, Dinner Recommendation: - Jinchunxi (dumpling restaurant): Mackerel dumplings, Milk Soup Pucai (Jinan's characteristic soup)> 📸 Photo Spots: Thousand Buddha Mountain Big Buddha, FoHui Mountain Cliff Walkway, City Panorama--- Day 4: Cultural Day · Shandong Provincial Museum & Furong Street Local Life - Morning: 1. Shandong Museum (✅ Free, reservation required) - National first-class museum, must-sees: - Han Dynasty Tomb Murals from Dongping - Large Jade Bi from the State of Lu - Oracle Bone Inscriptions and Bronze Exhibition - Magnificent architecture, suitable for photos - Noon: - Simple meal at Greenland Center next to the museum or return to the old city - Afternoon: 1. Furong Street (✅ Free) - Jinan's oldest snack street, but don't just eat at popular internet-famous shops! - Recommended: Crispy pastries, Tianmo Zhang, Grandma's Delicacies 2. Wangfuchizi Street (✅ Free) - Residents soak their feet and wash vegetables with spring water, full of local life - Can drink a cup of "tea brewed with Baotu Spring water" at a spring water tea house (20 RMB/cup) - Evening: - Heihu Spring Moat Night View - Walk along the river, watch the lights reflect on the springs - Can take a painted boat cruise (night cruise 50 RMB): connecting Baotu Spring, Heihu Spring, Daming Lake--- Day 5: Farewell to Spring City · Pingyin Roses or Old Railway Station Memories> 🎯 Choose one, freely combine according to interest Option A: Rose Rendezvous · Pingyin Rose Valley Day Trip (suitable for girls/couples) - Get up early and take a bus or carpool to Pingyin County (approx. 1.5 hours, round-trip fare 80 RMB) - Rose Valley Scenic Area (Ticket 50 RMB, May-June is best) - Stroll through acres of rose gardens, smell the flowers, take great photos - Experience: Rose tea making, rose jam DIY - Lunch: Farmhouse meal (average 50 RMB per person) - Afternoon souvenir shopping: - Rose tea, rose jam, rose cakes - Return before 14:00, head to Jinan Option B: City Memories · Old Commercial Port & Jiaoji Railway Museum Morning: 1. Jinan Old Commercial Port Area (✅ Free) - Century-old European architecture, artsy photo spot - Check in: Rabbit Police Officer, 2. Jiaoji Railway Museum (✅ Free) - Converted from the original German railway station, learn about Jinan's railway history 3. Jingsan Road Coffee Shop Street: - Recommended: Gaodi Street No. 56 · Coffee - Noon: - Simple meal at the Old Commercial Port or return to the city for a last bowl of Tianmo - Afternoon: - Souvenir shopping: - Crispy pancakes (crispier than regular pancakes, 5 RMB/pack) - Pingyin rose products (available in city supermarkets) - Spring water cultural and creative products (inside Baotu Spring Park) - Check out before 15:00, head to Jinan Railway Station for return trip--- 🍽️ Jinan Must-Eat List (easily done with an average of 80 RMB/day per person) | Name | Feature | Recommended Place | |------|------|--------| | Tianmo | Savory porridge, millet + beans + vermicelli | Tianmo Tang, street breakfast stalls | | Youxuan | Crispy spiral pastry, rich onion flavor | Youxuan Zhang, Furong Street | | Bazirou | Large pieces of braised pork, savory and flavorful | Kuanhouli, street fast food | | Sweet and Sour Carp | "Carp leaping over the dragon gate," crispy outside, tender inside | Caobao Baozi, Kuishengju | | Milk Soup Pucai | Representative Jinan soup dish, clear and fresh | Jinchunxi, Chunjiang Restaurant | | Jinan BBQ | Lamb + yellow beer, the soul of nightlife | Kunjiji, Laojin BBQ |--- 🎒 Blogger's Thoughtful Tips 1. Best Season: - April-May: Abundant spring water, blooming flowers - September-October: Crisp autumn air, fragrant osmanthus - Avoid high temperatures in July-August, as spring water flow may decrease 2. Transportation Advice: - Jinan subway + bus coverage is good, use Alipay to get "Jinan Cloud Bus Card" - Old city recommended for walking or shared bikes 3. Accommodation Advice: - For quietness: Choose Daming Lake East Bank, Baihuazhou - For convenience: Choose near Quancheng Road, Furong Street 4. Spring Water Consumption: - You can fetch water, but it's safer to boil it before drinking--- ✨ Summary >3600 RMB, 5 days and 4 nights, listen to the whispers of a spring, drink a savory bowl of Tianmo—>Every breath you take in Jinan carries the moisture of the springs and the warmth of the old city.

⏰ June 27, 2025 (Leap Year), 14:00 Year of the Snake (Yisi) · Baotu Spring Water Level 28.65 meters
▸ Live Report: Feels like 35℃｜Chao Ran Tower night session bookings are full for the next 3 days｜Olympic Sports Center National Games rehearsal underway 1. InterContinental Jinan: The Future Declaration of the Cloud Spring Eye ▲ Design Hegemony - Water Curtain Time Tunnel: 12-meter-high flowing water curtain wall projecting images of seventy-two springs in real time (hourly holographic show "Spring City Illusion") - Black Pottery Revival Plan: Guest room bathtubs inlaid with Longshan black pottery fragments, water flow activates 2,600-year-old patterns - Scented High-Tech: Lobby fragrance system changes with weather (lotus scent on rainy days, willow aroma on sunny days) ▲ Signature Room Types
→ Qilu Pavilion (¥1,288/night): Floor-to-ceiling windows framing five views of "mountains, springs, lakes, rivers, and city," AR glasses restore old city wall routes
→ Minghu Garden (¥1,588/night): Suspended bathtub facing Long'ao Building, includes lotus cold brew bath salts + stargazing telescope 🚴 Golden Route
• Underground passage directly to the Provincial Museum (National Games cultural relic special exhibition no reservation needed)
• 8-minute bike ride to Maoling Mountain: room key unlocks the summit spring-viewing pavilion 2. Wyndham Jinan: The Hormonal Engine at the Heart of the Olympic Sports Center ▲ Event DNA - Sacred Fire Totem: Central torch stand in the lobby changes color with event progress (China’s gold medal triggers jasmine cold mist spray) - Track Invasion: Guest room floors embedded with Olympic Sports Center track replica, meet step goals to receive athlete physiotherapy - Pool Revolution: Yellow River sand filtration system creates "spring water golden sand pool," with lotus-shaped floating beds ▲ Passionate Room Types
→ Sacred Fire Pavilion (¥888/night): Bay window facing the athletics stadium, includes champion-style energy breakfast
→ Baotu Residence (¥1,088/night): Bathroom walls embedded with water level sensors, water flow sounds fluctuate with Baotu Spring in real time 🏃 Hardcore Tips
• Secret passage directly to the Olympic Sports Center field (VIP morning run exclusive hours)
• Complimentary premium seats for the immersive play "Breaking the City Moment" at the Jinan Campaign Memorial Hall 3. Kempinski Hotel Jinan: Contemporary Translation of Thousand Buddha Zen ▲ Mountain Spirit Barrier - Glazed Spring Sound Installation: Lobby features 2,000 glazed water droplets playing "Spring Water Ding Dong" (humidity over 80% reveals Buddha Wisdom Mountain outline) - Lu Embroidery Revival Plan: Guest room screens hide intangible cultural heritage Lu embroidery, touch triggers animation of "Magpie and Autumn Scenery" - Zen Meditation Dark Room: Soundproof meditation pods on each floor (includes incense from Xingguo Zen Temple) ▲ Secret Realm Room Types
→ Buddha Wisdom Pavilion (¥1,288/night): Terrace swallowing the silhouette of the reclining Buddha, includes Thousand Buddha Mountain rubbing set
→ Shungeng Garden (¥1,688/night): Tatami extends into bamboo forest, with guqin sound therapy + spring water tea brewing experience 🎑 Zen Walk
• Back door leads directly to the Sui Dynasty stone Buddha caves on Thousand Buddha Mountain (exclusive to guests before 07:00)
• Hotel helicopter tours the Qi Great Wall ruins (includes aerial tea ceremony experience) 4. Shangri-La Hotel Jinan: The Song Dynasty Poetic Boat of Daming Lake ▲ Lake Mirror Hegemony - Chao Ran Tower Magic Cube: Miniature lobby model projects Jiaxuan’s poetry at night (light ripples activated by finger touch) - Black Pottery Bathroom Revolution: Walls covered with 3,000 Longshan black pottery pieces, water temperature at 40℃ reveals oracle bone script - Scented Narrative: Corridor fragrance changes with solar terms (End of Heat features lotus pod mixed with post-rain bluestone notes) ▲ Lake View Room Types
→ Chao Ran Pavilion (¥1,588/night): Floor-to-ceiling windows framing Lixia Pavilion, includes rain lotus-themed afternoon tea
→ Quehua Residence (¥1,888/night): Bathroom dome projects "Magpie and Autumn Scenery," with willow wave and oriole sound effects ⛩️ Chic Tips
• Secret path directly to Qushuiting Street (show room card for priority at sour dipping sauce stalls)
• Complimentary Baotu Spring early morning photo privilege (exclusive 1-hour access before 07:00 opening) 🌡️ 14:05 Heat Survival Tips ▏Waterfront Emergency Kit - InterContinental opens "Cold Mist Curtain Viewing Area"｜Wyndham offers spring water chilled watermelon feast - Shangri-La gifts bamboo tubes for drawing water from Black Tiger Spring｜Kempinski activates bamboo forest mist system ▏National Games Easter Eggs (starting September 1) - Wyndham Sacred Fire Pavilion offers opening ceremony rehearsal viewing - InterContinental launches athlete-style "Yellow River Carp Baked Noodles" 💎 Secret Code Privileges (valid June 27, Leap Year) Whisper "Spring Surge Code" at the front desk - InterContinental: room upgrade + spring water tofu feast - Kempinski: unlock Buddha Wisdom Mountain sunrise special route - Shangri-La: gift set of Chao Ran Tower poetry lanterns When InterContinental’s water curtain reflects the CBD’s sharpness, Wyndham’s sacred fire ignites Olympic passion;
When Kempinski’s glazed spring lights illuminate the Sui Buddha, Shangri-La’s poetic boat drifts into Song poetry—
these four hotels have become Jinan’s four spring veins:
The ambition of the new city collides with the Zen of the old city, steaming a water rhythm epic of Yellow River civilization in the 35℃ heatwave 📌 14:08 Live Broadcast｜Baotu Spring water level drops to yellow alert｜Traffic control around Olympic Sports Center
(Top picks: Wyndham Baotu Residence / Kempinski Shungeng Garden have ample availability)

Photo taken June 27, 2025 (Leap Year) at Shangri-La Chao Ran Pavilion, Daming Lake lotus pond bathed in golden sunlight ⚠️ Player Pitfall Guide 1. Scenic View Competition
▶️ InterContinental Qilu Pavilion best above 28th floor (avoid construction cranes of "mountains, springs, lakes, rivers, city")
▶️ Shangri-La Chao Ran Pavilion avoid low floors (tourist selfie sticks invade the view) 2. Quiet Secret Tips
▶️ Kempinski Buddha Wisdom Pavilion east-facing room (best spot for 05:30 reclining Buddha silhouette)
▶️ Wyndham Sacred Fire Pavilion windows closed during events (cheering noise reaches 120 decibels) 3. Transportation Revolution
▶️ InterContinental→Baotu Spring: take the Spring Water Metro special train (room key activates AR guide)
▶️ Shangri-La→Thousand Buddha Mountain: book poetic boat shuttle (via moat to South Gate)

Babies, I just came back from a special forces-style tour of Jinan, visiting 10 attractions in one day without any disappointments. Now, I’m handing over this amazing guide to you with both hands! 🚅【Transportation Guide】 If taking the high-speed train, it’s recommended to choose Jinan West Station, which has many trains and connects directly to the subway upon exit, making it convenient to get anywhere; if taking a regular train, Jinan Station or Daming Lake Station are closer to city attractions, so you can start your tour right after getting off. 🗺️【Immersive Route Planning】 Jingsan Road (Old Commercial Port) → Grand View Garden → Baotu Spring → Five Dragon Pool → Spring City Square → Black Tiger Spring → Liberation Pavilion → Kuanhouli → Furong Street → Qushuiting Street → Daming Lake → Chaoran Tower 🌟【In-depth Attraction Analysis】 🎞 Jingsan Road Old Commercial Port: Free! This place is artistic and vintage, with film-style street lamps and heart-shaped crosswalks. Every shot looks like a high-atmosphere blockbuster, perfect for city walking. 🏮 Grand View Garden: Free admission, the ancient-style buildings are very grand, with food streets and specialty shops interspersed. You can finish exploring in half an hour, fully experiencing the old Jinan’s lively street life. 💧 Baotu Spring: Ticket 40 RMB (can be bought by scanning QR code on site). The "Number One Spring Under Heaven" is no exaggeration! With pavilions and koi fish swimming in groups, it’s recommended to spend 1-2 hours enjoying it slowly. 🌊 Five Dragon Pool: Free! You can pet cats and tease fish here. A 5-minute walk will take you to a popular photo spot on Xiaohongshu. The sound of spring water is soothing and relaxing. 🌆 Spring City Square: Free, the evening music fountain is stunning, and during the day you might see locals dancing in the square. Don’t forget to check in at the iconic sculpture "Spring Mark." 🐯 Black Tiger Spring: Free, the spring water is crystal clear. Follow the locals to fill bottles with spring water, sit by the moat to enjoy the breeze and scenery, and feel the daily life of old Jinan. 🏛 Liberation Pavilion: Free, the second and third floors of the memorial hall are worth a visit. Cross the street to take a panoramic shot from below; taking a photo with this city landmark is very memorable. 🍜 Kuanhouli: Free, first browse the creative market for handmade crafts, then dive into the snack street. The special sugar-dipped snack is a must-try, both beautiful and delicious. 🍢 Furong Street: Free, livelier than Kuanhouli, with the aroma of fried skewers and grilled gluten filling the air. There are many ancient alleys and trendy photo spots, perfect for eating, shopping, and taking pictures. 🌉 Qushuiting Street: Free, the small bridges and flowing water at Qifeng Bridge have the charm of a Jiangnan water town. White walls and black tiles make strolling here feel like stepping into an ink painting. 🌊 Daming Lake: Free, known as the legendary place of Xia Yuhe, the large lake surface sparkles. Encountering lanterns and boats makes every photo healing and beautiful. 🏯 Chaoran Tower: Free, lights up punctually at 5:30 PM every day. At that moment, the majestic tower shines brilliantly in golden light. Be sure to arrive half an hour early to secure a spot and witness this stunning moment. 🍱【Jinan on the Tip of Your Tongue】 🥩 Braised Pork: Fatty but not greasy, melts in your mouth, a must-eat in Jinan. 🐟 Stir-fried Kidney: Classic Shandong dish, tender and fresh kidney, tastes amazing. 🥣 Sweet Dew: Specialty breakfast, savory and rich, starts your day full of energy. 🍬 Sugar-dipped Snack: Highly photogenic intangible cultural heritage snack, looks great and tastes good. 💡【Practical Tips】 1. Follow the recommended route if arriving by high-speed train; if arriving by regular train, it’s better to tour in reverse to save time. 2. Remember to bring sunscreen hats and mosquito repellent in summer. The paths near the springs can be slippery, so walk carefully. 3. It’s best to enter Baotu Spring before 8 AM for fewer crowds and better scenery; be sure to reserve your spot early for the Chaoran Tower lighting. Babies, follow this guide and you’re guaranteed to have fun and eat well in Jinan. Hurry up and get ready to go!

3-day extravaganza at the Olympic Sports Center from September 19th to 21st 🔥 How to snag the best value at 1,300 under the strict real-name registration system? 💎 Three key highlights: 1⃣️ Extreme scarcity! The only show in northern China ⚡ Mid-Autumn Festival holiday bonus, scalpers are already selling tickets for ¥12,800/ticket; 2⃣️ 25 years of nostalgia 🎵 60 songs in a row! The prelude to "Seven Miles of Fragrance" had the 80s/90s/00s crowds swooning; 3⃣️ The stage ceiling ✨ A giant crystal ball + carousel stage, and a Ferris wheel elevator recreate the "Garden Carnival"; 🎫 [Ticket-grabbing battle] ⏰ Targeting returning tickets: Damai/Maoyan/Ctrip are releasing tickets every hour 💻 First round is now open! Check your unpaid orders at 10 PM every night; 💸 Ticket Guide: Ticket Schedule | Location | Lottery Rate | Easter Egg ¥600 | Grandstand Area | ❌ | Touching Echoes from the Mountaintop ¥1300 | Opposite the Extension Stage | ✅ | Interactive Chorus Center ¥2000 | Front Area | ❗️ | 72-hour facial verification required 🚀 God-like Operation: Android + 5G > iPhone | Alipay Payment Speed: 0.8s; Bind 2 attendees in advance! Maoyan pre-fill speeds up by 50%; 🚇[Transportation Guide] 📍Best Route: Line 3, Olympic Sports Center, Exit D 🚶 8-minute direct ride (last bus until 11 PM) 🚘Drive Tip: MixC parking ¥10/hour (¥5 off with a ticket) | Reserve a spot before 6 PM ⚠️ Illegal parking on Olympic Sports West Road will result in a 200 yuan fine and/or tow. 🏨[Accommodation History] 💯 Recommended Walking Circle: 1. Shunhe Atour S Hotel ¥412 | Spinning Room | 15-minute subway ride 2. Tanglihe Hotel ¥328 | Free Tianmo breakfast | 10-minute walk to Heihu Spring 💣 Warning: B&Bs within the surrounding 3km radius are priced 200% higher! Look for the "2024 New Renovation + Near the MRT" tag. 🍜[Jason Hackney Fan Must-Try List] 1. Chao Yi Xing Bao Zi Pork ¥15 | Fatty yet not greasy, served with a "Rice Fragrance" Easter egg 2. You Xuan Zhang Combo ¥8 | Freshly fried you Xuan with sweet foam 3. Huanlian Night Market Sour Dips + Beer ¥20 | 10% off with a ticket ⚠️[Life-Saving Guide] ❌ Bottled water will be fined! Bring an empty cup for drinking water (28℃ in September 🔥) ✅ Required: Folding stool + binoculars | Zero slope inside the venue 🎥 Unauthorized filming will result in a 500 yuan fine! Only 3 minutes of filming is allowed for "Qilixiang" (Seven Miles of Fragrant Osmanthus). 🚩[48-Hour Cultural Tourism and Travel Package] Day 1: Listen to "Blue and White Porcelain" at Baotu Spring → Enjoy tea at Qushuiting Street → Lights up at Chaoran Tower at 7:45 PM Day 2: Cruise the moat and sing "Sunny Day" → Eat "Nine-Turn Large Intestine" at Kuanhouli (30% off ferry tickets!) When 30,000 people sing against time with a broken chorus, you'll understand: Carnival is the survival of youth amidst the tearjerker. ✨

Hello everyone, I’m your travel host! Today, I’ll take you into a northern water city where “every household has spring water, every door has willow trees” — Jinan! Here you’ll find the “Number One Spring Under Heaven” Baotu Spring, the slow life of Qu Shui Ting Street, the summer rain lotus by Daming Lake, and mouth-watering authentic Shandong cuisine and snacks. Next, I bring you a high cost-performance 3 days 2 nights travel guide for Jinan, with a total budget controlled within 2000 RMB, perfect for students, couples, and family trips to easily explore the essence of the Spring City!--- 📍 Destination: Shandong · Jinan 📅 Trip Duration: 3 days 2 nights (weekend + 1 day off or short holiday) 💰 Total Budget: 2000 RMB (including transportation, accommodation, meals, tickets, local transport) 🎯 Travel Theme: Spring Water Culture + Old Town Stroll + Food Street Tour + Natural Scenery --- 🗓️ Itinerary Overview | Days | Main Activities || Day 1 | Arrive in Jinan → Baotu Spring → Five Dragon Pool → Spring City Square → Daming Lake Night View || Day 2 | Climb Qianfo Mountain → Liberation Pavilion → Heihu Spring Water Collection → Qu Shui Ting Street + Furong Street Night Market || Day 3 | Zhangqiu Baimai Spring or Jinan Botanical Garden → Return |--- 🚆 Transportation Suggestions (example from nearby cities) - 🚄 Round-trip high-speed train (e.g., from Qingdao): second-class seat about 170 RMB × 2 = 340 RMB (if departing locally, this cost can be saved, making the budget more flexible) - 🚇 Jinan metro + bus cover wide areas, download the “369 Travel” app to scan and ride - Local transport budget: 💰80 RMB (including taxis for emergencies) --- 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations - Stay near [Spring City Square or Daming Lake in budget hotels/guesthouses] ✔️ Central location, walking distance to multiple attractions 💰 About 260 RMB/night × 2 nights = 520 RMB 🔔 Recommended: Home Inn, Hanting, All Seasons, or boutique guesthouses in the old town --- 🗓️ Day 1: First Impressions of the Spring City · Lake and Spring Night 🕐 Morning: Arrive in Jinan, check into hotel - 🚄 Arrive at [Jinan Station] or [Jinan West Station] - Jinan Station is closer to downtown, prioritize this! - 🚇 Metro or taxi to hotel (about 20 RMB) 🌞 Afternoon: Baotu Spring + Five Dragon Pool + Spring City Square - 🎫 Baotu Spring Park ticket 40 RMB (half price for students) ✔️ Watch the “Number One Spring Under Heaven” with three streams surging, check in at Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall - 🆓 Five Dragon Pool Park is free! ✔️ Clear spring water, kids can play in water (summer) - 📸 Spring City Square landmark check-in: spring logo “golden lotus” + distant view towards Heihu Spring 🌆 Evening: Daming Lake night view - 🆓 Daming Lake Scenic Area free entry (very large!) - Recommended route: enter from south gate → Chaoran Tower → Wenshao Post → Lake Island night view 💡 Host’s secret: Chaoran Tower lighting moment (around 7:00 PM), like a Tang Dynasty night city! 🍜 Dinner: Kuanghouli Snack Street - Recommended: Youxuan (oil spiral bread), sweet porridge, braised pork, braised chicken rice 💰 About 50 RMB > ✅ Day 1 expenses: accommodation 260 + tickets 40 + meals 50 + transport 30 = 380 RMB --- 🗓️ Day 2: Climb Qianfo Mountain + Old Town Slow Life 🌄 Morning: Climb Qianfo Mountain for panoramic views - 🎫 Ticket 30 RMB (free for 60+, students 15 RMB) - 🚌 Bus B66 direct to [Qianfo Mountain West Gate] - Climbing route: West Gate → Xingguo Zen Temple → Reclining Buddha → Ten Thousand Buddhas Cave → Shun Emperor Statue ✔️ At the top, overlook all of Jinan, host’s recommended photo spots: south facing Daming Lake, north facing CBD 🍽 Lunch: Restaurant at the foot or return to downtown - Recommended: Caobao Baozi Shop (Puli Street branch) 💰 About 40 RMB per person, Jinan old brand, baozi + millet porridge very satisfying 🌇 Afternoon: Heihu Spring + Liberation Pavilion + Qu Shui Ting Street - 🆓 Heihu Spring free! ✔️ Bring an empty bottle to fill fresh drinking spring water (great for tea!) ✔️ Watch three tiger heads spouting water, hear locals fetching water, full of life - 🏯 Liberation Pavilion exterior free, commemorates Jinan battle - 🌿 Qu Shui Ting Street ✔️ Small bridges, flowing water, drink a bowl of big bowl tea (10 RMB) ✔️ Buy souvenirs: spring water stamps, Jinan Eight Views bookmarks 🌃 Evening: Furong Street Night Market food crawl - Jinan’s most popular snack street, but don’t eat on the main street! 💡 Host’s tip: explore the alleys! - Recommended: Huang’s BBQ, Sweet Porridge Tang, Youxuan Zhang, Spring Water Tofu Pudding 💰 Dinner budget: 60 RMB (eat while walking) > ✅ Day 2 expenses: tickets 30 + meals 100 + transport 20 = 150 RMB --- 🗓️ Day 3: Suburban Options · Flexible Return Plan A: Zhangqiu Baimai Spring Park (culture + nature) - 🚆 Jinan Station → Zhangqiu Station (15 minutes by bullet train, ticket 11 RMB) - 🚌 Taxi or bus to [Baimai Spring Park] - 🎫 Ticket 40 RMB, see the source of “Ming Shui Xiang Rice,” check in at Li Qingzhao’s former residence - Can visit [Overseas Chinese Town Happy Gathering] (free science museum) - 💰 Same day transport + tickets ≈ 80 RMB Plan B: Jinan Botanical Garden (best for families/oxygen) - 🚌 Bus BRT6 transfer K301, about 1.5 hours - 🎫 Ticket 30 RMB, very large park, good for walking and photos - Has children’s playground, greenhouse Lunch: Have a local Shandong meal before returning - Recommended: Jin Chunxi (Shimao branch) ✔️ Kung Pao Chicken, Nine-Turn Large Intestine, Sweet and Sour Carp 💰 About 60 RMB per person 🚄 Afternoon return - Arrive at station 1 hour early to avoid missing train > ✅ Day 3 expenses: transport + tickets 80 + meals 60 = 140 RMB --- 💰 Total Budget Summary | Item | Cost ||------|------|| Round-trip high-speed train (from Qingdao) | 340 RMB || Local transport (metro + bus + taxi) | 80 RMB || Accommodation (2 nights × 260 RMB) | 520 RMB || Meals (3 days) | 500 RMB || Tickets (Baotu Spring + Qianfo Mountain + Baimai Spring) | 110 RMB || Emergency & souvenirs (spring water tea, Youxuan gift box) | 100 RMB || Total | ≈1650 RMB | ✅ Balance about 350 RMB! Can be used for: - Upgrade one meal to high-end Shandong cuisine - Take taxis to save energy - Buy more souvenirs (recommended: Jinan Youxuan, Pingyin rose tea) --- 📸 Host’s Secret Tips (Must-Do in Jinan) 1. Direct drinking spring water spots: Heihu Spring, Pipa Spring, Five Dragon Pool, bring a bottle to fill, great value! 2. Chaoran Tower lighting: around 7:00 PM, arrive early to shoot time-lapse. 3. Furong Street avoid traps: main street is expensive and not tasty, explore alleys for local stalls! 4. Wear comfortable shoes! Old town stone roads + mountain climbing, easily 20,000 steps walking. 5. Pingyin Rose Season (May) can visit rose garden on the way, fragrance is intoxicating! --- 🎉 Conclusion: With 2000 RMB, you can explore Jinan’s springs, climb mountains, stroll old streets, eat braised pork, drink sweet porridge, and fill spring water for tea — this is a “slow city” you won’t want to leave once you arrive. If you like this “Spring City Slow Travel” episode, remember to like + follow. Next stop, we’ll watch the sunrise at Mount Tai or drink beer in Qingdao! 🌊⛰️ — Your travel host, currently sipping big bowl tea at Qu Shui Ting Street, live streaming the vibrant life of the Spring City for you! 🎥🌸

Here is a 7-day, 6-night in-depth travel guide for Jinan designed with a budget of 5000 RMB, balancing culture, nature, cuisine, and comfort, perfect for travelers who enjoy a slow pace and deep exploration. As a travel blogger, I will detail the plan covering transportation, accommodation, attractions, food, and budget allocation. --- 📍 Destination: Shandong · Jinan (Spring City) 📅 Duration: 7 days, 6 nights 💰 Total Budget: 5000 RMB (per person) 🎯 Style: Culture + Nature + Authentic Food + Light Hiking + City Strolling ✈️ 1. Transportation Budget (about 1200 RMB) - Long-distance transport (High-speed train/bullet train) Assuming departure from nearby cities like Beijing/Shanghai/Zhengzhou, round-trip second-class high-speed train tickets cost about 800-1000 RMB (cheaper in off-season). It is recommended to buy tickets 30 days in advance to grab early bird or discount tickets. - Local transportation (subway + bus + taxi) Jinan’s subway covers major attractions, buses are convenient, and taxi starting fare is 12 RMB. Estimated 6-day local transport cost: 200 RMB (including subway card, shared bikes, short taxi rides) ✅ Transportation Tips - Download the “369 Travel” app to scan QR codes for subway and bus rides - Walk or bike around Daming Lake, Baotu Spring, and Spring City Square areas 🏨 2. Accommodation Budget (about 1800 RMB) Choose comfortable chain hotels or boutique guesthouses near Spring City Square or Daming Lake, with convenient transport and beautiful night views. - Recommended areas: - Around Quancheng Road pedestrian street (e.g., All Seasons, Atour, Home Inn Business) - Near the East Gate of Daming Lake (some guesthouses offer lake views) - Budget: - Average 300 RMB per night × 6 nights = 1800 RMB - Consider long-stay discounts or early booking deals 💡 Accommodation Advice Choose hotels with breakfast included to save on morning meals and experience local breakfast culture. --- 🎯 3. Attractions & Experiences (about 800 RMB) Jinan’s attraction tickets are generally inexpensive; most parks are free or low-cost. | Attraction | Ticket Price | Notes | |---------------------|--------------|--------------------------------| | Baotu Spring Park | 40 RMB | "The Number One Spring Under Heaven," a must-visit | | Daming Lake Scenic Area | Free (10 RMB to climb Chaoran Tower) | City’s green lung, stunning night views | | Wulongtan Park | Free | Quiet and less crowded, clear spring water | | Qianfoshan Scenic Area | 30 RMB | Climb for panoramic views of Jinan, a place for blessings | | Heihu Spring + Liberation Pavilion | Free | Popular water collection spot and landmark | | Shandong Museum | Free (reservation required) | Learn about Qilu culture | | Kuanhouli / Furong Street | Free | Food streets, great for photos | | Hongye Valley (optional) | 60 RMB | Gorgeous in autumn, 30 minutes from city by car | | Jinan Zoo | 15 RMB | Family-friendly, also suitable for adults | ✅ Total ticket cost about 155 RMB ✅ Other experiences - Boat ride on Daming Lake (painted boat 30 RMB/person) - Spring water tea tasting (some tea houses offer free samples) - Free City Walk routes (recommended: Spring Cluster Trail, Old Commercial Port) 🎯 It is recommended to buy the “Quancheng Pass” tourist combo ticket (if available) to save some costs. --- 🍜 4. Food Budget (about 1200 RMB) Jinan is one of the birthplaces of Shandong cuisine, with abundant snacks and great value! 🍽️ Must-try list & budget reference (for 6 days): | Meal | Recommended Dishes | Budget per Meal | |---------|---------------------------------------|-----------------| | Breakfast | Sweet rice soup + Youxuan (Old Ma’s / Keyuan Road) | 10-15 RMB | | Lunch | Braised pork rice bowl, Nine-turn large intestine, Sweet and sour carp | 30-50 RMB | | Dinner | Kuanhouli snacks or old-brand Shandong cuisine restaurants | 50-80 RMB | | Snacks | Fried skewers, milk soup with pu cai, spring water tofu | 20 RMB per time | ✅ Recommended restaurants - Lao Zhou’s Beef Pancake (famous for Youxuan) - Qiaotoubao Braised Pork (local favorite) - Jin Chunxi (dumplings + Shandong cuisine, nice environment) - Bai Jia Fat Intestines (recommended for late-night snacks) - Chao Yixing (fast food chain, great value) 💡 Money-saving tips - Have fast food or rice bowls for lunch, and try specialty dishes for dinner - Share snacks at Kuanhouli to avoid waste --- 🗺️ 5. Daily Itinerary Suggestions (slow pace · deep travel) Day 1: Arrive in Jinan + Spring City Night Charm - Arrive in the afternoon, check into hotel - Evening stroll at Spring City Square → Heihu Spring night view → Dinner at Kuanhouli - Check out: Liberation Pavilion light show Day 2: The Number One Spring + Daming Lake - Morning: Baotu Spring Park (see the three spring streams) → Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall - Afternoon: Wulongtan → Walk to Daming Lake (enter from south gate) - Evening: Climb Chaoran Tower to watch the lights turn on (7:00 PM) - Dinner: Snacks at Furong Street Day 3: Qianfoshan + Old Commercial Port Culture - Morning: Climb Qianfoshan, admire Buddha sculptures, chrysanthemums/red leaves - Afternoon: Shandong Museum (learn about Longshan culture, Han dynasty artifacts) - Evening: Explore Old Commercial Port (German architecture, cafes, rabbit sculpture) - Dinner: Creative Shandong cuisine at Old Commercial Port Day 4: Spring Water Secret Exploration Day - Morning: Water collection experience at Heihu Spring → Pipa Spring − Baishi Spring (walk along moat) - Noon: Rest at a teahouse near Wangfuchi Street - Afternoon: Visit Pearl Spring Courtyard (outer area) → Wangfuchi (old city spring swimming pool) - Dinner: Try Caobao Bun Shop Day 5: Nearby Nature (Hongye Valley or Baima Spring) - Option A (autumn): Hongye Valley Ecological Area (bus 65 direct) - Option B (spring): Zhangqiu Baima Spring + Mingshui Ancient City (beautiful “Plum Blossom Spring”) - Return in the evening, dinner with Jinan barbecue (local favorite street food vibe) Day 6: City Walk + Cultural Experience - Morning: Shandong University Hongjialou Campus (Gothic church) - Noon: Café near Hongjialou Church - Afternoon: Qushuiting Street (small bridges, flowing water, traditional houses) → Baihuazhou - Evening: Daming Lake music fountain or folk music pub Day 7: Departure + Souvenirs - Morning: Buy souvenirs - Youxuan (vacuum packed) - Pingyin rose tea/rose jam - Zhangqiu iron wok (small commemorative model) - Return after lunch --- 💡 6. Money-saving & Practical Tips 1. Many free attractions; most parks, spring clusters, and streets in Jinan are free, plan well to save on tickets. 2. Direct drinking water points at Heihu Spring and Pipa Spring; bring a water bottle for eco-friendly local experience. 3. Travel off-peak; avoid Baotu Spring crowds on holidays, enter before 8 AM for fewer people and better views. 4. Wear comfortable shoes; expect about 15,000 steps daily, Jinan old town is great for walking. 5. Best seasons are spring and autumn (March-May, September-November); summers are hot, winters dry and cold. --- ✅ Total Budget Summary (per person) | Item | Cost | |----------------|----------| | Transportation | 1200 RMB | | Accommodation | 1800 RMB | | Tickets & Experiences | 800 RMB | | Food | 1200 RMB | | Total | 5000 RMB | > 💰 Actual cost can be controlled around 4800 RMB, leaving 200 RMB for emergencies or souvenirs. --- 📌 Conclusion Jinan is an underrated treasure city, with spring water flowing through streets and alleys, full of old-town charm. In 7 days, no rush, just enjoy the poetic life of “every home has spring water, every household has willow trees.” As a travel blogger, I sincerely recommend you take a “slow spring journey.” If you want me to generate a PDF version of the guide or daily map routes, just let me know! 📷✨ Wishing you a pleasant trip, may spring water always accompany you! 💧🌸

【Itinerary】No backtracking～ 🌈Day 1: First Experience of the Poetic Spring City 💧Meihua Spring → ✨Baimai Spring Park (The spectacular "one spring forms a river" is breathtaking!) → 🏠Li Qingzhao Former Residence (Feel the daily life of the talented lady) → 🏯Longquan Ancient Temple (A tranquil ancient temple with over 600 years of history) → 💤Qingzhao Quancheng Yian Yue Hotel (Chinese-style courtyard perfect for photos📸) 🌈Day 2: Artistic Jinan Walking Tour 🖼Shandong Museum (A treasure trove of bronze artifacts) → 🎨Shandong Art Museum (The famous staircase is a must-check-in) → 🌊Daming Lake Scenic Area (You know it’s the hometown of Xia Yuhe) → 📖Lao She Memorial Hall (A must-visit for literature fans) → 🏯Chaoran Tower (Absolutely stunning night view) → 🌉Huibo Tower (Best spot for sunset viewing) → 🍃Zengdi Yingshui (Healing lakeside walk) → 💤All Seasons Hotel (South Gate of Shandong University branch) (Unbeatable location) 🌈Day 3: Slow Life in the Old City 🐉Wulongtan Park (Crystal clear spring water) → ⛲Wulong Fountain (Spectacular water show) → 💦Baotu Spring Scenic Area (The "Number One Spring Under Heaven" must-see!) → 🍵Qushuiting Street (Strong old Jinan flavor) → 🚄 Return trip, stay at Wuhan High-Speed Rail Station Hampton by Hilton (Super convenient for catching trains) 🌄【Top 5 Must-Do】✨ 1️⃣Baotu Spring Scenic Area: The "Number One Spring Under Heaven" lives up to its name! 2️⃣Daming Lake Scenic Area: Even more beautiful than in TV dramas! 3️⃣Shandong Museum: A paradise for cultural relic lovers🏛 4️⃣Chaoran Tower: Lighting up at night instantly steals your heart💘 5️⃣Wulongtan Park: A local hidden gem for leisurely strolls 💡【Useful Tips】 ☑️Jinan is very hot in July! Sunscreen + small fan are must-haves ☑️Attractions are close; taxi rides usually cost around 10 yuan ☑️Evening boat rides on Daming Lake are the most comfortable ☑️Don’t miss trying the sour dipping sauce on Qushuiting Street!

Itinerary Day 1⃣️: Baotu Spring - Daming Lake - Qushuiting Street Baotu Spring📍: One of Jinan's three major attractions, the spring water is crystal clear, experience the charm of the "Number One Spring Under Heaven"💫 Daming Lake📍: The lake scenery and autumn colors complement each other beautifully; you can also check in at Chaoran Tower to enjoy the night view🌃 Qushuiting Street📍: A charming street with old Jinan flair, the poetic charm of small bridges, flowing water, and traditional homes~ Day 2⃣️: Thousand Buddha Mountain - Jiefang Pavilion - Kuanhouli Thousand Buddha Mountain📍: Overlook the panoramic view of Jinan; numerous Buddha statues on the mountain are truly magnificent🙏 Jiefang Pavilion📍: A red landmark building, learn about the history of the Jinan Campaign Kuanhouli📍: A popular trendy street for young people, the snack street has an abundance of delicious food🍢 Day 3⃣️: Black Tiger Spring - Laoshangbu - Quancheng Square Black Tiger Spring📍: One of the three famous springs, remember to bring an empty bottle to collect spring water💧 Laoshangbu📍: A retro-style commercial district, super photogenic📸 Quancheng Square📍: The musical fountain at dusk is incredibly spectacular🎶 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations ▫️Shangri-La Hotel, Jinan: Excellent business district location, superb views ▫️Daming Lake Lakeside Boutique B&B: Close to the scenic area, experience Jinan's slow pace of life ▫️InterContinental Hotel: Five-star quality, convenient for getting anywhere in the city center 🍴 Food Recommendations Must-try 1⃣️: Bazirou (recommended the old brand at Daguan Garden) Must-try 2⃣️: Braised Chicken with Rice (only Jinan's is authentic!) Must-try 3⃣️: Tianmo (locals' favorite breakfast) Must-try 4⃣️: Spring Water Carp (the best shops are by Daming Lake) 📌 Practical Tips ✔️April to June is the best travel season for Jinan ✔️Most attractions are accessible by shared bicycles ✔️Remember to wear comfortable shoes, walking around the city can be tiring ✔️Be sure to bring an empty bottle to collect and drink spring water~

When Emperor Qianlong drank the water from Baotu Spring, he immediately declared it the "Number One Spring Under Heaven"—if he had tasted the water from your Heihu Spring, he might have abdicated the throne to you on the spot! Jinan, a city naturally accompanied by the BGM of spring water trickling, hides over 100 spring outlets. This summer, it just launched 10 new spring-hopping routes, even locals are exclaiming, "Wow!" 💦 Day 1: Spring Water Walk, Be a "Qianlong Experience Officer" for a Day Morning: Baotu Spring Scenic Area (Ticket 40 RMB) - Rush into the park straight to the three "Gudu Monsters," watch them shoot water 1 meter high from the ground (textbooks don’t lie!) - Hidden tip: Bring an empty tea cup and wait by Dukang Spring to collect free spring water for tea, instantly becoming a "Baotu Spring Tea Master" - Laugh warning: Don’t buy the 20 RMB big bowl tea! Turn right out the door to Qushuiting Street and get the same tea for 5 RMB, then use the remaining 15 RMB to enjoy some spring water grilled skewers—doesn’t that sound better? Afternoon: Wulongtan → Heihu Spring → Moat Boat Ride - Enjoy free access to Wulongtan, compete with local elders to find the "Heart-cleansing Spring" (loser buys the other a draft beer) - At Heihu Spring, watch locals carry buckets to fetch water, boldly borrow an empty bottle to taste—only for those with strong stomachs to try drinking it raw! - Must-try: Hop on the moat boat ride (60 RMB/person), drifting from Heihu Spring to Daming Lake, unlocking a "waterborne blind box" style spring cluster along the way Evening: Qushuiting Street’s Little Jiangnan Illusion - Have coffee at No. 8 Old House on Qifeng Bridge, pretend to travel back to Qianlong’s era and post on social media: "I’m undercover in Jinan enjoying coffee" - Spend 5 RMB on a bag of spring water popcorn, munch while watching grandmas wash vegetables with spring water—true luxury at spring water level 🏯 Day 2: Chase "Xia Yuhe" at Daming Lake, Be a "Hero" at Qianfoshan Morning: Daming Lake (Free, but Chaoran Tower ticket 60 RMB) - Hardcore route: Enter from the south gate → Jiaxuan Shrine → Lao She Memorial Hall → Chaoran Tower, climb to the top for a "Daming Lake ID photo" - Magical moment: At 18:50, wait for the Chaoran Tower lights to turn on, shoot a video with the caption "I lit the lamp for Yuhe!" - Social butterfly move: Spend 30 RMB on a rowboat to row through Yuhe Alley, hear tourists on the opposite bank shout, "Erkang! Is that you?" Afternoon: Qianfoshan (Free before 6 AM) - Lazy person’s blessing: 20 RMB cable car straight to the summit, pose at "Qiyan Jiudian" archway for a "stepping on Jinan city" boss photo - Literary Easter egg: Touch all the statues on Qianfo Cliff for good luck—but don’t touch the top student Buddha before exams, or he might haunt you to study! 🚌 Day 3: Choose One Spring Water Blind Box, Cure Your Indecision! Option A: Spring Water Old Street Foodie Route (Free) Pearl Spring Courtyard → Wangfuchi → Furong Street, route highlights: - Find the "Gulu Bubble Spring" at Pearl Spring, bet on whether it bubbles more than bubble tea - Rush to Furong Street to show off: Wuyue Temple Braised Pork (perfect balance of fat and lean) + Youxuan Zhang (scallion-flavored attack) - Avoidance guide: Furong Street’s trendy stinky tofu? Better save your appetite for spicy hot pot and iced jelly cups at Kuanzhouli! Option B: Surrounding Spring Water Wild Route (Self-drive/Group tour) - Drama lover’s pick: Race along the "most beautiful Panshan Road," snap photos like the Akina Speed Stars, listen to the snoring spring at Xianghulu Spring (it really makes sounds!) - Zen recommendation: Hug the thousand-year-old "Tanbao Spring" at Lingyan Temple in Changqing, said to increase your chances of finding love by 50% 🍖 Food Bomb: Jinan Locals Teach You to "Eat Instead of Drink" - Braised Pork: Head to Wuyue Temple (open 24 hours), the fatty meat trembles like jelly, paired with rice it’s explosively delicious! - Mystical snacks: Sweet mo is salty porridge! Youxuan is like scallion-flavored mille-feuille! Outsiders ordering these will have their pupils dilate in shock - Hidden quest: Lotus leaf wrapping technique for Caobao buns—carrying a lotus leaf package while strolling, passersby will think you’re carrying a fish 💡 Pitfall Avoidance Guide with a Smile - Transportation: Bus QR code scanning is super convenient; if driving, avoid Quancheng Road—donkey carts are faster during traffic jams - Accommodation: Qushuiting Street courtyard > Quancheng Square Hotel > Youth Hostel, fall asleep to the white noise of spring water at night - Ultimate advice: Don’t visit Hongye Valley before autumn! Otherwise, seeing bare trees will make your tears flow more than Baotu Spring After three days in Jinan, you finally realize: The unfinished legend of the 72 springs from Emperor Qianlong’s time is all hidden in the old man’s spring water teapot, in the bucket of the girl fetching water at Heihu Spring, and even in the greasy corners of your braised pork mouth! Before you leave, remember to take a bottle of spring water—next time your boss makes empty promises, take a sip and calmly retort: "This promise isn’t even as flaky as Jinan’s Youxuan pastry!" 💦

📖【Itinerary Revealed】 📍Day1: Jinan Classic Highlights Baotu Spring Park (📍Address: No.1 Baotu Spring South Road, Lixia District) → Furong Street (Local snack paradise🍢) → Daming Lake (Famous "Xia Yuhe" filming location⛵️) → Chaoran Tower (Stunning night views✨) 📍Day2: Jinan Citywalk Day Qushuiting Street (Old Jinan charm🏮) → Kuanhouli (Trendy food hub) → Black Tiger Spring (Locals' favorite water spot💦) 📍Day3: Jinan→Qingdao Transfer Day Check out from Huiyuan Hotel → Eight Great Passes (International architecture cluster🏛️) → Second Beach (Less crowded, scenic🌊) → Taipingjiao Park (Seaside boardwalk🌴) → Third Beach (Best light show viewpoint🌉) 📍Day4: Qingdao Must-See Marathon Zhanqiao Pier (Iconic landmark🤳) → St. Michael's Cathedral (European vibes⛪️) → Little Fish Hill Park (Panoramic red-roof views🌳) → First Beach (Popular swimming spot🏖️) → Lu Xun Park (Photogenic rock formations📸) → Qinyu Road (Artsy coastal path🎻) → Little Qingdao Island (Breathtaking sunset😭) → Lao Fangzi Guotie (Must-try local dumplings🥟) 📍Day5: Ocean World Finale Polar Ocean Park (Adorable marine life🐬) → May Fourth Square (Perfect ending🎉) 🌟【Top Recommendations】 1️⃣ Baotu Spring: "No.1 Spring Under Heaven" with spectacular gushing waters💧 2️⃣ Daming Lake: "Half lake mirrors the city" sunset paradise🌄 3️⃣ Eight Great Passes: Every street is Instagram-worthy📷 4️⃣ Zhanqiao Pier: Feed seagulls & enjoy sea views🕊️ 5️⃣ Polar Ocean Park: Heart-melting beluga shows💕 💡【Pro Tips】 ✓ Perfect June weather for summer escape! ✓ Wear comfy shoes for packed itinerary ✓ Pack sunscreen & hat - strong UV in Qingdao☀️ ✓ Convenient 1.5h high-speed train between cities🚄

Jinan Three-Day Tour: Explore the Charm of the City of Springs, Enjoy a Journey of History and Culture Jinan, a city full of charm, is known as the "City of Springs." The vibrancy of Baotu Spring, the beauty of Daming Lake, and the tranquility of Thousand Buddha Mountain all captivate the heart. Next, let's embark on this three-day Jinan journey together to explore the unique charm of the City of Springs. Itinerary Day 1: Baotu Spring - Kuanhouli Street - Daming Lake - Qushuiting Street - Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural Block Morning: Upon arrival in Jinan, first head to Baotu Spring. As the "Number One Spring under Heaven," Baotu Spring's three clear springs gush day and night, with crystal-clear water, surrounded by pavilions and towers, showcasing ancient simplicity and elegance. At Baotu Spring, you can stroll through the park, admire many famous springs such as Shuyu Spring and Mapao Spring, and feel the vitality and dynamism of the spring water. You can also visit the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall to learn about the life and works of this graceful poet. Noon: Exit from the East Gate of Baotu Spring, and walk a few minutes to reach Kuanhouli Street. This is Jinan's food street, gathering various specialty snacks and delicacies. You can taste traditional Jinan dishes such as Youxuan, Tianmo, and Bazi Rou, experiencing Jinan's food culture. Afternoon: After lunch, proceed to Daming Lake. Daming Lake boasts beautiful scenery, with shimmering lake water and weeping willows along the banks. You can choose to take a boat tour to enjoy the lake and mountain views, or stroll along the lakeside, visiting attractions such as Lixia Pavilion and Tiegong Ancestral Temple. At Daming Lake, you can also see Chaoran Tower, an ancient building that lights up beautifully in the evening, making it a great spot for photos. Evening: After visiting Daming Lake, head to the connected Qushuiting Street. Qushuiting Street features old houses with blue bricks and red tiles on one side, and clear springs with swaying green algae on the other, full of the charm of a Jiangnan water town. Stroll along the street, admire the antique buildings, and experience Jinan's urban life. Afterwards, proceed to Baihuazhou Historical and Cultural Block, which preserves many traditional residences and historical buildings. Baihuazhou at night, illuminated by lights, has a unique charm. Day 2: Thousand Buddha Mountain - Shandong Museum - Black Tiger Spring - Quancheng Square (Musical Fountain Show) Morning: After breakfast, head to Thousand Buddha Mountain. Thousand Buddha Mountain is one of Jinan's three major scenic spots. Although not high, it boasts beautiful scenery, with attractions such as Xingguo Chan Temple and Lishan Academy on the mountain. Climb to the summit to overlook the panoramic view of Jinan city. At Thousand Buddha Mountain, you can also admire numerous Buddha statues and stone carvings, experiencing the profoundness of Buddhist culture. Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Thousand Buddha Mountain, tasting classic Shandong cuisine dishes such as Sweet and Sour Carp and Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallion. Afternoon: Proceed to Shandong Museum. Shandong Museum is the first provincial comprehensive geological museum established after the founding of New China, with rich collections and numerous cultural relics. Here, you can learn about the history, culture, and artistic development of the Shandong region, and admire various precious artifacts such as the Eggshell Black Pottery Cup and Dongping Han Tomb Murals. Evening: After leaving Shandong Museum, take a bus to Black Tiger Spring. The spring water of Black Tiger Spring gushes out from the tiger's mouth with magnificent momentum. You can collect a bottle of spring water here and taste its sweetness. Stroll along the moat, enjoying the spring views along the way. Afterwards, head to Quancheng Square to watch the musical fountain show. The musical fountain, accompanied by the rhythm of music, sprays water columns of various shapes, colorful and spectacular. Day 3: Mingshui Ancient City Morning: After breakfast, take a long-distance bus or taxi to Mingshui Ancient City. Mingshui Ancient City is located in Zhangqiu District, Jinan. It boasts many famous springs such as Baimai Spring, Mo Spring, and Meihua Spring, with crystal-clear water and beautiful scenery. In Mingshui Ancient City, you can visit the Former Residence of Li Qingzhao to learn about her upbringing and creative inspiration. You can also stroll through the ancient city's streets and alleys, admire the old buildings, and feel the tranquility and charm of the ancient city. Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant within Mingshui Ancient City, tasting local specialties such as Stir-fried Pork with Zhangqiu Scallions and Huangjia Roasted Meat. Afternoon: Continue exploring Mingshui Ancient City, experiencing some traditional cultural activities, such as making Zhangqiu iron woks or learning about Longshan culture. Afterwards, conclude your pleasant Jinan trip and return to your departure point. Food Recommendations Youxuan: A traditional Jinan delicacy, with a crispy crust, tender interior, and fragrant scallion aroma. It can be bought at snack stalls in Kuanhouli Street and other places. Tianmo: A specialty breakfast in Jinan, made primarily from millet flour, cooked with vermicelli, spinach, tofu skin, and other ingredients, offering a savory taste. Bazi Rou: A classic dish in Shandong cuisine, the pork is stewed until it's reddish-brown, fatty but not greasy, lean but not tough. It's very appetizing when eaten with rice. Sweet and Sour Carp: A traditional Shandong famous dish, the carp is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a sweet and sour sauce that is delicious and rich in flavor. Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallion: One of the representative dishes of Shandong cuisine, the sea cucumber is soft and glutinous, with a rich scallion aroma and high nutritional value. Stir-fried Pork with Zhangqiu Scallions: Made primarily with Zhangqiu scallions, stir-fried with pork, the aroma of scallions and pork blend together, creating a delicious taste. Huangjia Roasted Meat: A specialty of Zhangqiu, the roasted meat has a crispy yellow skin, tender and flavorful meat, and a rich aroma. Accommodation Suggestions Near Quancheng Square: Excellent location, convenient transportation, with many shopping malls, restaurants, and attractions nearby. Diverse accommodation options, from budget hotels to high-end hotels. Recommended hotels: InterContinental Jinan Quancheng, JI Hotel (Jinan Quancheng Square). Near Daming Lake: Beautiful environment, close to Daming Lake scenic area, where you can enjoy the night view of Daming Lake in the evening. There are also many guesthouses available here, allowing you to experience Jinan's characteristic accommodation. Recommended guesthouses: Jinan Daming Lake Springside Inn, Jinan Quanshui Renjia Homestay. Near Thousand Buddha Mountain: Good natural environment, fresh air, suitable for tourists who prefer quietness. Accommodation prices are relatively more affordable. Recommended hotels: Atour Hotel Jinan Thousand Buddha Mountain, Jinan Xuefu Hotel.

1️⃣ Feed pigeons for free at Forest Park 2️⃣ Visit Hang Lung Mall for the WIGGLE exhibition and snap 10,086 photos 3️⃣ Admire the stunning flower walls at Quancheng Square 4️⃣ Capture the romantic sea of flowers at CBD 5️⃣ Explore the Shell Exhibition and discover ocean treasures 6️⃣ Check out the viral 8-million-dollar restroom at Hang Lung Mall 7️⃣ Enjoy the crystal-clear spring water along the Moat 8️⃣ Chase a breathtaking sunset at Quancheng Square 9️⃣ Take photos at Jinan’s most beautiful public restroom 🔟 Immerse yourself in a daisy field at Forest Park 1️⃣1️⃣ Witness the magical lantern lighting at Xiayuhe Lotus Pond 1️⃣2️⃣ Breathe fresh air and pet cats at Quancheng Park 1️⃣3️⃣ Visit themed exhibitions at the Art Museum 1️⃣4️⃣ Pose for photos in front of Chaoran Tower 1️⃣5️⃣ Spot the internet-famous Call Duck at Wulongtan Park 1️⃣6️⃣ Snap pics at Jinan’s comic mural wall 1️⃣7️⃣ Watch locals fetch water at Black Tiger Spring 1️⃣8️⃣ Take a photo at Hongjialu Church

Film Studio (Leisurely old-time charm) Spring City Park (Perfect place to bask in the sunshine) Huashan Mountain (Jinan's own "Altay") Henglong Plaza (Super photogenic WIGGLE exhibition! Get free IP stickers too!) Moat (A hidden gem in the city center) Qifeng Bridge (Instagrammable spot in the old alleys) Huluding (A "mini Xinjiang" with panoramic sunset views) Chaoran Tower (Lights turn on at 19:30 now) Henglong Plaza (Shell exhibition! Get free seashells 🐚 for check-ins~) Yujia Bridge (Relaxed vibe with old-town charm) Heihu Spring (Experience traditional spring-water life in Jinan) Henglong Martini Bar & Restaurant (Jinan's attractions are concentrated, and Henglong is right in the middle~ Great for dining, exhibitions, shopping, and resting!) Boluo Hill (Sunny lawn for daydreaming) Daming Lake (Take deep breaths of fresh air) Wulongtan (Enchanted forest on sunny days)

Folks, if you're traveling to Jinan, you must bookmark this guide! It guarantees you'll visit the most interesting attractions and eat the most authentic local food at the lowest cost! First stop, head straight to Baotu Spring, ticket price 40 yuan. As the "No. 1 Spring Under Heaven," the sight of its three gushing springs is absolutely breathtaking and totally worth the visit! Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds, snap beautiful photos, and swing by Li Qingzhao's former residence near Shuyu Spring to experience where this talented poetess once lived. Next, check out Daming Lake, free entry. This is the legendary site of Xia Yuhe—don't miss the boat rides and lotus viewing. Also, visit Chaoran Tower; the lighting-up moment at 18:50 is stunningly beautiful, so grab a front-row spot early! After the lights, stroll along the moat for mesmerizing night views. Don’t skip Qushuiting Street—it’s free! Dubbed the "Jiangnan Water Town of the North," this street with springs running through it is pure vibes. Navigate to "Qifeng Bridge No. 8" for Instagram-worthy shots with its mint-green walls and heart-shaped windows. Tired? Grab a stick of sour candy—it’s refreshingly sweet and tangy. Heihu Spring is also free, where three tiger-head carvings gush water with a roaring sound—truly spectacular. Bring an empty bottle to collect spring water for tea; the aroma is divine! Nearby Liberation Pavilion is a Hanfu photography hotspot at night—absolutely legendary. In Jinan, Qianfo Mountain is a must, ticket 30 yuan. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Jinan. Xingguo Temple on the mountainside is said to bring academic and career luck—worth a visit if you need blessings. After descending, head to Shandong Museum to admire treasures like the Red Pottery Beast-Shaped Pot and soak in history. Hungry? Time for food! Try Ba Zi Rou (braised pork)—we recommend Chao Yixing, just 15 yuan per person. The melt-in-your-mouth pork over rice, paired with rolled omelet and fried eggs, is plate-licking good. Also, don’t miss You Xuan (crispy pancakes) and Tian Mo (sweet porridge)—You Xuan Zhang’s crispy pancakes with Tian Mo Tang’s rich porridge create a perfect salty-sweet combo, a favorite of Ji Xianlin. And grab pork soup dumplings at Caobao Steamed Bun Shop—bursting with broth, each bite is pure bliss. For lodging, splurge at InterContinental Jinan City Center for prime views over Quancheng Square. Budget-friendly? Atour S Hotel Quancheng Square is clean and just 5 minutes from Baotu Spring. Students can opt for hostels near Hongjialou—youthful vibe, beds from 50 yuan. Getting around is easy—most attractions are walkable or bikeable. For buses, search "Jinan Cloud Bus Card" on Alipay for e-tickets. A 24-hour day pass costs just 6 yuan—worth it after 3 rides! Bookmark this guide now and embark on an unforgettable trip to Jinan!

Wode Smart Hotel, a youth-oriented lodging brand under Wode Group, features intelligent technology and stylish design with vibrant social spaces, offering guests a dynamic and fashionable stay experience. - Prime Location & Easy Access: Situated at the intersection of Huaxianchang Road and Huaneng Road, just steps from the main industrial corridor of South Industrial Road and 1.6 km from Huayuan East Road Metro Station (Line 3). Conveniently connected to Jinan International Convention Center, Shandong Museum, Olympic Sports Center, and major city attractions. - Cozy Rooms & Thoughtful Amenities: Multiple room types available with pristine cleanliness, plush bedding, and premium fabrics for restful sleep. Smart room controls allow effortless adjustment of temperature, lighting, and curtains. Stay at Wode Smart Hotel Jinan CBD Huaxianchang Road Branch to explore urban vibrancy by day and unwind in tech-enhanced comfort by night. Discover the historical grandeur of Chaoran Tower under sunlight, then admire Daming Lake’s glittering evening views. Dubbed "The First Tower North of the Yangtze," Chaoran Tower was originally built during the Yuan Dynasty by scholar Li Jiong. A cultural landmark frequented by Ming and Qing literati, it witnessed Jinan’s historical evolution. Reconstructed in 2007 during Daming Lake’s expansion, it now stands as one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Ming Lake" – Chaoran’s Sublime Vista.

🗺️ **Must-Visit Attractions in Jinan** 🗺️ 1️⃣ **🌊 Baotu Spring** - 🎋 The Number One Spring Under Heaven💦 Crystal clear water🐟 - 📸 Check out the spectacular three streams gushing out💥 - 🚶‍♂️ Near Quancheng Square⛲ with a music fountain show at night🎶 2️⃣ **🏞️ Daming Lake** - 🚣‍♀️ Boating on the lake is super relaxing🛶 Find the same romance as “Xia Yuhe”💘 - 🌸 Watch willows in spring🌿 and lotus flowers in summer🪷 - 🌆 Evening lights on Chaoran Tower🏮 make for stunning night views🌠 3️⃣ **⛰️ Qianfoshan (Thousand Buddha Mountain)** - 🧗‍♂️ Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Jinan🌇 - 🏯 Visit Wanfo Cave🗿 and Xingguo Zen Temple🛕 on the mountain - 🌄 Sunrise and sunset are perfect for photos📸 4️⃣ **🏮 Qushuiting Street** - 🏡 Old Jinan style street🍵 Relax with tea and traditional music🎶 - 🛶 Small bridges, flowing water, and riverside homes🌊 Great for photos📸 5️⃣ **🍢 Kuanhouli + Furong Street** - 🍡 Jinan’s hottest snack streets🔥 Try Bazirou (braised pork)🥓, Youxuan (fried dough twist)🌮, and Tianmo (sweet porridge)🍲 - 🏮 A mix of ancient architecture and modern cuisine✨ --- ### 🍜 **Must-Try Foods in Jinan** 🍜 1️⃣ **🥩 Bazirou (Braised Pork)** - 🍚 Rich but not greasy‼️ Perfect with rice🤤 2️⃣ **🌮 Youxuan (Fried Dough Twist)** - 🥢 Jinan specialty snack💛 Crispy and fragrant✨ 3️⃣ **🍲 Tianmo (Sweet Porridge)** - 🥣 The name is sweet but it’s actually savory porridge😆 A must-try breakfast☀️ 4️⃣ **🍢 Barbecue + Draft Beer** - 🍻 The soul of Jinan’s night snacks‼️ Large skewers and great value🔥 --- ### 🚗 **Transportation Tips** 🚗 - ✈️ Airport: Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport🛬 - 🚄 High-speed Rail: Jinan West Station / Jinan Station🚉 - 🚇 City: Bus🚌 + Metro🚇 + Shared Bikes🚴‍♂️ --- ### 💡 **Travel Advice** 💡 - 🌞 Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons🌸🍂 Summer can be hot🔥 - 💧 Visit spring water attractions in the morning☀️ Fewer people and better for photos📸 - 🏛 Shandong Museum🏛️ and Art Museum🎨 are also worth visiting‼️ --- This guide is comprehensive enough, right?😎 Jinan is really delicious and fun💖 Let’s go🚀

Enter through the southwest gate of Daming Lake (free admission) and start a clockwise walk around the lake. The weekend crowd makes the place lively and bustling. Taking your time to walk and snap photos, a full circle around the lake takes about three hours. While walking around the lake, you’ll definitely come across Chaoran Tower, a structure originally built during the Yuan Dynasty and reconstructed in 2008. At night, the tower is beautifully illuminated, making it a great spot for photography, though it’s also crowded with visitors. After leaving the Daming Lake scenic area, head to Qu Shui Ting Street and then to the snack street "Furong Street" to explore and grab some local bites. The air is filled with the aroma of various fried local snacks.

After seeing it all over social media, I finally couldn't resist my longing and headed to Jinan, just to witness the breathtaking moment when Chaoran Tower lights up. As dusk gently envelops Daming Lake, the water's surface sparkles with rippling light, and the willows along the shore sway gently, as if quietly waiting for a grand ceremony. The star of the show is Chaoran Tower, standing by the lakeside for hundreds of years. This pavilion, originally built during the Yuan Dynasty, has weathered the passage of time and carries profound historical and cultural significance, now undoubtedly becoming Jinan's landmark. The site was already packed with crowds, everyone holding cameras and phones, eyes fixed on the ancient tower, faces full of anticipation. With a countdown, the lights suddenly illuminated, warm yellow light outlining Chaoran Tower's silhouette, highlighting every detail from the flying eaves and bracket sets to the carved beams and painted rafters. It was like a giant stepping out of history, majestic and spectacular. At that moment, waves of gasps and cheers erupted from the crowd, accompanied by the continuous clicking of camera shutters. Stepping inside the tower, I was captivated by its rich collection. There's a stone rubbing of Li Hong's representative work "Poems of Crossing Cai River," an 8-meter-tall nanmu wood carving "Scenic Views of Spring City" vividly depicting Jinan's famous sights like Baotu Spring and Thousand Buddha Mountain, and the Old Disabled Traveler's Ceramic Art Gallery showcasing Jinan's street life in the late Qing and early Republican era... Each exhibit tells the story of this city's past. In this fast-paced era, coming to Jinan to witness Chaoran Tower's lighting ceremony feels like a conversation with history, a healing experience for the soul. If you're also longing to find a unique emotional connection during your travels, Chaoran Tower is definitely not to be missed.

#Mainland Tourism I think night tour of Daming Lake Chaoran Building is one of the good nightlife Chaoran Building is located on the lakeside, surrounded by picturesque natural scenery. #Jinan #Jinan Chaoran Building #night tour #Quancheng #domestic travel

Daming Lake Scenic Area is located in the northern part of the old city in Lixia District, Jinan City, Shandong Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction integrating waterscape, gardens, and ancient architecture. Daming Lake has a long history, and its water source comes from many springs in the city, hence it is known as the "convergence of numerous springs." The scenic area is home to many historical sites and attractions such as Lixia Pavilion, Tie Gong Ancestral Hall, and Chaoran Tower. II. Opening Hours and Ticket Prices Opening hours: Open all day, the old scenic area is open from 5:00 to 22:00, and the new scenic area is open 24 hours. Ticket price: Free, but some activities may require additional fees. III. Itinerary Morning Chaoran Tower: Enter the scenic area from the south gate and head to Chaoran Tower. Chaoran Tower is a landmark building of Daming Lake. You can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Daming Lake from the top of the tower, making it an excellent spot for taking photos. Lixia Pavilion: Take a boat to Lixia Pavilion on the island in the heart of the lake. Inside the pavilion, there is a plaque inscribed by Emperor Qianlong and Pu Songling's "Ode to the Ancient Lixia Pavilion," allowing you to experience the rich historical and cultural atmosphere. Noon Qu Shui Ting Street: Taste Jinan's special snacks, such as lotus leaf porridge and lotus leaf meat, on Qu Shui Ting Street and experience the authentic Jinan flavor. Afternoon Tie Gong Ancestral Hall: Visit Tie Gong Ancestral Hall to learn about the deeds of Tie Xuan, a loyal official of the Ming Dynasty, and appreciate the ancient architecture and gardens within the ancestral hall. Beiji Pavilion: Continue to visit Beiji Pavilion, a scenic spot on the north bank of Daming Lake, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains. Evening Night tour of Daming Lake: Take a boat from the pier near the south gate for a night tour of Daming Lake, admire the lights on the lake, and experience the colorful lights of Chaoran Tower after dark. IV. Recommended Restaurants Huixianlou Restaurant: Located on Furong Street, it offers authentic Jinan cuisine, such as lotus leaf chicken and lotus leaf crispy fish. Furong Street Snacks: Furong Street is a famous snack street in Jinan, offering affordable and delicious food, perfect for replenishing energy. V. Transportation and Time Self-driving route: Navigate to "Daming Lake South Gate Parking Lot," park, and walk into the scenic area, the whole journey takes about 10 minutes. Transportation within the scenic area: You can walk or take a boat within the scenic area. The boat fare is CNY 10 per person. VI. Travel Tips and Photo Spots Chaoran Tower: Choose the best photo spot on Chaoran Tower Square, and shoot in the soft light of early morning or evening to capture the colorful effect. Lixia Pavilion: Take photos of the ancient pavilion and the lake against the backdrop of the island in the heart of the lake, showcasing the historical charm of Daming Lake. Tie Gong Ancestral Hall: Take photos with the ancient architecture as the background in front of the ancestral hall to capture the antique atmosphere. Night view: Take dreamy photos of the Daming Lake night view with the reflection of lights as the background during the night tour.

**🌊[Daming Lake Complete Guide] The Pearl of Jinan City as described by Lao She! Unlock the same Xia Yuhe route from *My Fair Princess*.** ✨**Must-See Highlights** 1️⃣ **Lighting up of Chaoran Tower**: At 19:10, thousands of lights turn on instantly, with golden reflections on the lake surface. Videos are more stunning than photos (get there early to secure a good spot). 2️⃣ **Lixia Pavilion**: Emperor Qianlong personally inscribed "Autumn Wind of Lixia". Du Fu once feasted here. Take a painted boat to the island to understand the meaning of "lotus flowers on three sides, willow trees on the other". 3️⃣ **Tie Gong Ancestral Hall**: See the panoramic murals of the Jinan Campaign. The red walls and blue water guarantee great photos. 🛶 **In-Depth Experiences** ✔️ Night cruise on a sculling boat (CNY 60/person): Pass through 13 ancient bridges and listen to the boatman tell stories from *The Travels of Lao Can*. ✔️ Nanfeng Opera House: Change into Hanfu, taste spring water tea, and take photos imitating Xia Yuhe from *My Fair Princess*. 🍢 **Foodie Radar** ▫️ "Yang's Sesame Candy" by the lake: Intangible cultural heritage spring water sesame candy, CNY 5 a pack, crispy, sweet, and not sticky. ▫️ County East Alley Braised Pork: CNY 15, perfectly balanced fat and lean meat, served with rice that's incredibly delicious (10-minute walk). ▫️ Avoid: The expensive lotus flower banquet inside the scenic area. Street-side eateries are a better option. 📌 **Handy Tips** ▪️ Free entry! Climbing Chaoran Tower costs CNY 40 for a panoramic view. ▪️ Best seasons: June–August for lotus flowers all over the lake / December for snow-covered Chaoran Tower. ▪️ For self-driving, park at "Daming Lake South Gate parking lot", CNY 4/hour. 💬 **"By Daming Lake, waiting for a light to turn on, waiting for a rainy lotus..."** Do you love its spring charm or its poetic sentiment more? 👇

If Jinan is the most Jiangnan-like city in northern China, then Daming Lake must be its most captivating feature. Unlike the crowded West Lake, it holds the poetic charm of "lotus blossoms on three sides, willows on four, half the city mountains, half the city lake." It may lack the grandeur of imperial gardens, but its spring-fed waters connect the elegance of the Tang and Song dynasties with the vibrancy of everyday life. Today, we'll delve into Lao She's "Pearl of the Spring City" and uncover experiences even locals might not know about! [Geographical Background] Daming Lake is no ordinary lake! It's the only natural lake in China formed by the confluence of springs, with 72 springs converging here, a legend even recorded in the *Commentary on the Waterways Classic*. Despite its 46-hectare surface area, it "never swells with rain, nor dries in drought," resembling a piece of jade embedded in Jinan's old town. Overlooking the lake from the Chaoran Tower, the water reflects the silhouette of Thousand Buddha Mountain, no wonder Emperor Qianlong visited on each of his six trips south of the Yangtze River. [Travel Highlights] ① Morning: A Double Dose of Lotus Fragrance and History As dawn breaks, old Jinan residents stroll by the lake with their birdcages. On the mist-covered lake, layers of lotus leaves stretch to the horizon, occasionally disturbed by egrets skimming the surface to snatch a silverfish. A short walk west, the Iron Official Shrine's stone tablets recount stories of Ming Dynasty loyalists, while the statue of Xin Qiji at the Jiaxuan Shrine gazes upon the land he vowed to protect. ② Afternoon: Unraveling the City's Secrets by Boat Hop on a moat cruise for ¥20, departing from the Black Tiger Spring dock. Watch as the boatman's bamboo pole propels the city to life amidst the ripples. Look up as you pass under White Stone Bridge—the eaves of the Liberation Pavilion intersect with skyscrapers overhead. The thrill of passing through the water gates surpasses even a Disney ride! The route ends at Daming Lake's west bank, a 50-minute "water tour" through the city that's an absolute steal. ③ Dusk: The Golden Hour at Chaoran Tower At 5:50 pm, all of Jinan's photographers rush towards Chaoran Tower! As the setting sun paints the tower amber, lights suddenly illuminate each level, and the bronze bells under the eaves chime. Capture this moment for a photo guaranteed to earn countless likes. A secret tip: inside the tower lies the largest wooden mural north of the Yangtze River, and even the handrails are carved from single pieces of chicken-wing wood. ④ Evening: Light Shows and Local Delights The Ming Lake show after 8 pm is the main event! Water screen projections depict Li Qingzhao's playful "racing to cross," drones form lotus patterns in the night sky, and vendors selling sweet foam have set up their stalls: "Miss, hungry? Have a bowl of braised pork with spring water tea!" [Transportation Guide] Subway Line 2 goes directly to Daming Lake Station, but the retro "Dangdang" bus (Route 777) is even more recommended. With wooden seats and a conductor's Shandong-accented Mandarin, a ¥5 ride takes you around the lake. Drivers beware! Parking around the scenic area is like Spring Festival travel. Park at Quancheng Square and cycle 10 minutes to the southwest gate. [Culture & Food] Even dining at Daming Lake is an art! The "Rain Lotus Hall" on the south bank isn't a figment of *Princess Returning Pearl*—Emperor Qianlong's poem *Daming Lake* is inscribed on a stele here, next to stalls selling fragrant lotus leaf porridge. For an authentic Jinan breakfast, head to Zhang's Fried Dough Twists outside the east gate: freshly baked, crispy twists paired with a bowl of sweet foam (actually savory!), a filling meal for ¥10. Adventurous eaters shouldn't miss the "Spring Water Banquet": nine-turn large intestines stewed in Black Tiger Spring water, tender and not greasy, milk soup with pucai so fresh it'll make you dance, and finally, lotus-shaped "Daming Lake Lotus Root Cake," even praised by food critic Chua Lam as "more stunning than West Lake vinegar fish." [Travel Tips: Secrets to Avoiding 99% of Tourists] Off-peak times: For empty shots of lotus flowers, enter before 6 am; arrive an hour early for the light show. Hidden gems: A stone path near Qiuliu Garden reveals ancient poems from *The Travels of Lao Can* on rainy days. Scam alert: The scenic area is free, but Chaoran Tower costs ¥40 (half price for seniors over 60). Baotu Spring offers half-price joint tickets on Mondays and Fridays. Ultimate experience: Around the Qingming Festival, take the scenic area shuttle (from Daming Lake Station) for ¥30 to visit both Lingyan Temple and the Wildlife Park. [Tickets & Hours] Daming Lake's old area is open 24/7 and free! Chaoran Tower is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (¥40). Moat cruises depart every half hour from 8:00 am, with night cruises until 10:00 pm. Allow half a day, as even watching elderly gentlemen write calligraphy on the ground with lake water can fill an entire afternoon. Jinan locals say, "Daming Lake is alive." It lives in the spirit of General Jiaxuan, in Li Qingzhao's unfinished wine, in the tai chi movements of morning exercisers, and in the ripples stirred in every visitor's heart. When you step onto the stone path and watch koi leap from the water to catch willow leaves, you'll understand—this isn't just a lake; it's a bowl of spring water offered by Jinan to the world, clear, refreshing, and eternally new.