Tiger Spring

Introducing Tiger Spring

The Hupao Spring's current spring is located in a square well, offering clear water perfect for brewing tea. Atop it stands the Hupao Pavilion for visitors to relax. During the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, Yuan Jizu rebuilt the square pond and renamed it the "Eternal Green Pond," hence the Hupao Pavilion's nickname. Embedded in a stone wall beside the pond is a stele inscribed with the three characters "Hupao Spring," inscribed by Cheng Xun, the Zhenjiang prefect during the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty.

Legend has it that when Prince Zhaoming first arrived at Zhaoyin Mountain, he had great difficulty finding water. One day, as he was strolling along the hillside, a sudden gust of wind blew, and a ferocious tiger leaped from the woods. Startled, the prince scrambled to avoid it. In a flash, the tiger pounced and landed at the prince's feet. It dug a deep crater with its front paws, then roared away. Instantly, a clear spring gushed out from the crater. Overjoyed, the prince named it "Tiger Run Spring."

Hupao and Lupao are sister springs, known for their "sweet, fragrant, and mellow" springs, and have long been highly regarded. Zhaoyin Temple was even renamed "Luquan Temple" at one point. Lupao Spring is located east of Tingli Mountain House on Zhaoyin Mountain (Zhaoyin Mountain is home to numerous birds, especially the oriole). Beside the spring stands a pavilion known as Luquan Pavilion, also called "Rusi Pavilion." It was named by Lin Hua, the county magistrate during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, after the line from the Analects of Confucius: "Time passes like this, never ceasing day or night." In those days, the area was a picturesque place, teeming with forests and lush greenery, roamed by wild deer, and the sound of the deer's cries and the gurgling springs offered a unique experience.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; there is a stele with the three characters "Hupao Spring" embedded on the stone wall next to the Hupao Spring, which was written by Cheng Xun, the prefect of Zhenjiang during the Chongzhen period of the Ming Dynasty. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free admission, included in the Nanshan Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Tiger Spring

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tiger Spring is a famous historical site in Zhenjiang, known for its ancient cultural significance. The spring has been an important source of water for centuries and is tied to local legends and traditions, adding to its historical charm.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The spring is located in the eastern part of Zhenjiang. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk from nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn, as the weather is mild and the landscape is particularly beautiful.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and in some cases, online tickets are available for purchase via local ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it's recommended during peak tourist seasons. A day or two in advance should be sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the area, including visiting the spring, the surrounding landscape, and taking in the historical aspects of the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is Tiger Spring itself, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil environment. The nearby ancient structures, pavilions, and peaceful walking paths are also must-see features.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, may also be available depending on the season.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the spring, along the walking trails, and from the elevated pavilions, offering views of the surrounding nature and the water itself.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the Tiger Spring, then explore the surrounding pavilions and walking paths. End your visit by enjoying the scenic views from the viewing platforms.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available, as the site is primarily a daytime attraction focused on nature and historical exploration.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and drinks. However, there are limited food options, so it's advisable to bring refreshments if needed.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths for easy navigation. However, some areas with steeper terrain may be difficult for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are accepted. Cash is not commonly used, so it's recommended to have a mobile payment app available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants nearby offering Jiangsu cuisine. For more variety, visitors can head to the city center of Zhenjiang, where a wider selection of restaurants and cafes can be found.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options are limited but may be found in select restaurants in the city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels near Zhenjiang city center, including options like Zhenjiang Hotel and local guesthouses, providing easy access to the spring and surrounding attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Jinshan Temple, Beigu Mountain, and the Zhenjiang Yangtze River Bridge, making them perfect for a day trip in the area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the spring offer items such as traditional Chinese crafts, tea sets, local snacks, and postcards, which make great keepsakes of the visit.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, buses, and local public transport options are available for further travel around Zhenjiang. The Zhenjiang Railway Station is a short taxi ride away for those continuing their trip to other cities.