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At the Jinan International Garden Expo Park, visitors can enjoy exploring the themed gardens, including the European-style garden, the Japanese Zen garden, and the tropical plant exhibition area. The park also hosts seasonal flower exhibitions, eco-tourism activities, and boat rides on its lakes. It's ideal for photography, walking, and learning about different horticultural practices.
Jinan International Garden Expo Park is located in Jinan University Science and Technology Park. It is a large-scale comprehensive international expo park integrating garden landscape, ecological tourism, plant science popularization, cultural expo, leisure and vacation, and water tours. It is currently the largest land-based garden expo park in China. At present, Jinan International Garden Expo Park is officially open to the public free of charge.
The Jinan Garden Expo Park will be a new representative tourist attraction in Shandong Province, following the theme of "One Mountain, One Water, One Sage." Its three main thematic buildings are the Water Gate, the Main Exhibition Hall, and the Science and Technology Museum. Its eight functional zones include the Public Area, the Central Lake Area, the Domestic Exhibition Area, the International Future Exhibition Area, the Qilu Exhibition Area, the Leisure and Entertainment Area, the Fun Garden Exhibition Area, and the Seedling Reserve Area.
Jinan has a temperate monsoon climate with obvious monsoons and distinct four seasons: dry and rainy spring, warm and rainy summer, cool and dry autumn, and cold and snowy winter.
It is recommended to visit for half a day
free
8:30-16:30
Jinan International Garden Expo Park was built to showcase the city's commitment to environmental sustainability and green urban development. It is a symbol of Jinan’s efforts to promote ecological awareness, urban planning, and horticultural research, hosting national and international garden exhibitions.
The park is located in the southern part of Jinan, near the city center. You can reach the park by bus, taxi, or private car. The nearest metro station is a short taxi ride away. Buses directly connect the park with various parts of the city.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is more comfortable. Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee is around 40 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through the official website or third-party ticketing platforms. It's recommended to check online for discounts during certain periods.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays. Booking at least a day before your visit is advised to secure your spot.
You will need around 2 to 3 hours to explore the main areas of the park, including the themed gardens, lakes, and exhibitions. For those who enjoy photography or want to relax, an additional hour may be required.
Key highlights include the European Garden, the Japanese Zen Garden, and the Orchid Exhibition Hall. The Boat Ride area is a great spot to relax and take in the scenery, while the seasonal flower exhibitions are also a major draw.
Guided tours in Mandarin are available for groups and individuals. Audio guides are also offered in Mandarin and English, providing insights into the park’s history, flora, and design.
The best viewpoints are located at the highest points of the European Garden, overlooking the park’s lakes and scenic paths. The Japanese Zen Garden also provides tranquil backdrops for photography, with beautiful rock formations and water features.
Start your visit at the main entrance and head towards the European Garden. Then, explore the Japanese Zen Garden before proceeding to the Orchid Exhibition Hall. Finish your visit with a relaxing boat ride on the park's lake.
Currently, the park does not offer night visits, but special events such as flower festivals and cultural performances are held periodically. Check for event schedules on the park's official website before your visit.
The park can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays, preferably in the morning or late afternoon.
The park is equipped with clean toilets, water stations, and several rest areas. There are food stalls and cafes throughout the park, and souvenir shops sell garden-related items and local products.
The park is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved paths and ramps. However, some areas may require extra effort due to terrain changes, so it’s best to ask the staff for more details on accessibility.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the park. Credit cards are also accepted in most areas, including at the entrance and in shops. Cash is not necessary but can be used at some smaller vendors.
There are several cafes within the park offering light refreshments, as well as restaurants nearby serving local Shandong dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and grilled meats.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several cafes within and near the park. While halal food options are limited, a few nearby restaurants cater to halal diets.
Hotels near the park include the Grand Mercure Jinan and the Shandong Hotel, both offering comfortable stays and easy access to the park. Other mid-range options are available throughout the city.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and the Black Tiger Spring. These can easily be combined with a visit to the Jinan International Garden Expo Park for a comprehensive day trip.
Souvenir shops within the park sell garden-related items, local crafts, and traditional Chinese goods like tea sets and decorative items. Potted plants and flowers are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to continue exploring Jinan. The city’s efficient public transport system makes it easy to access other key attractions.
