Jinan 济南 — City of Springs — Confucius's Hometown Province
Jinan, known as the 'City of Springs,' has 72 natural artesian springs. Baotu Spring, praised by Emperor Qianlong as the 'First Spring Under Heaven,' bubbles dramatically in the city center. The spring-fed Daming Lake and Thousand Buddha Mountain complete a trio of attractions easily visited in a day. Jinan is also a major transport hub and gateway to Mount Tai.
The most famous of Jinan's 72 springs. Three main springs surge upward through limestone, pushing water 30cm above the surface. The park also contains the Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall dedicated to China's greatest female poet. The surrounding tea houses serve spring water tea.
Hours: 7:00–19:00
Admission: ¥40
A large spring-fed lake surrounded by weeping willows. The lake is fed by multiple springs and features Lixia Pavilion on an island. Famous in Chinese literature, it's best explored by boat. Free entry since 2017.
Hours: 全天开放
Admission: Free
A hill with 130+ Buddhist rock carvings from Sui/Tang dynasties, offering panoramic city views. The large standing Buddha dates from the Ming Dynasty. A cable car reaches the summit.
Hours: 6:00–18:30
Admission: ¥30