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Visit Pipa Spring to admire its crystal-clear waters and the surrounding lush scenery. Enjoy walking through the scenic area, relax by the spring, and take in the natural beauty of the site. Don't forget to take a boat ride if available, which provides a unique view of the spring and its surroundings.
Pipa Spring is located in the southeast corner of Huancheng Park, west of Black Tiger Spring. It was included in the Qing Dynasty's "Records of the Seventy-two Springs." It earned its name from the gurgling sound of its water, which resembles the melodies of a pipa. Renovated in 1965, it is now a 6-meter-long, 5-meter-wide, and 2-meter-deep stone-paved square pool. Water gushes out from a rock hole at the bottom of the pool, overflowing from the north bank, cascading down into the river. Standing on the Pipa Bridge, one can admire the spring and listen to the music, a truly picturesque experience.
Pipa Spring is located in the southeast corner of Jinan Ring City Park, west of Black Tiger Spring. It was included in the Qing Dynasty's "Records of the Seventy-Two Springs." The spring got its name because of the clusters of bubbles that bubble up from the bottom of the pool, bursting on the surface and making a hissing sound that, in the dead of night, sounds like the melodies of a pipa. The spring's original shape was irregular. In 1965, it was renovated into a square stone pool 6 meters long, 5 meters wide, and 2 meters deep, surrounded by carved stone railings. The pool extends into the moat, one meter above the river surface. Two tiers of stone steps line the outer walls. The spring water overflows the pool and cascades down the steps, creating a melodious sound reminiscent of the sound of a pipa. However, this isn't the true wonder of Pipa Spring. The remarkable thing about it is that, during peak water season, the melodious sound of a pipa can be heard from beneath the surface. According to geologists, the area under Pipa Spring is Ordovician dolomitic limestone, with large and small caves and troughs in between. The groundwater gushes out and hits the hollow rocks, thus making a clear and moving pipa sound.
On April 5, 2004, the newly selected "72 Famous Springs" and "Ten Spring Groups" of Jinan, after five years of evaluation, were officially announced. With the passage of time, some of the historical "72 Famous Springs" no longer exist, and new springs with outstanding natural and cultural value have been added to the list.
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 play for one hour
Pipa Spring is known for its tranquil setting and historical significance in Chinese culture. The spring is named after the shape of a traditional Chinese musical instrument, the pipa, due to its resemblance. It is a peaceful retreat that has been appreciated for centuries for its clear waters and picturesque surroundings.
Pipa Spring is located in Jinan, Shandong. You can reach it by taking a taxi or public bus from the city center. It is also accessible by walking if you are staying nearby. The site is well-marked, and taxis are the most convenient way to reach it.
The spring is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Early mornings and weekdays are typically less crowded.
The entrance fee to Pipa Spring is usually around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local ticketing websites.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, though doing so during peak seasons or holidays can save time. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient if you're visiting during a busy period.
It typically takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Pipa Spring area. If you plan to relax and enjoy the surrounding nature or take a boat ride, you might want to allocate more time.
The main highlight is the spring itself, with its crystal-clear waters. Visitors should also explore the scenic walking paths around the area, enjoy the views, and relax by the tranquil waters. If available, take a boat ride to see the spring from a different perspective.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be available in both Chinese and English during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to inquire in advance about the availability of English guides or audio guides.
The best photography spots are around the edge of the spring, where you can capture the clear water and surrounding natural beauty. The boat ride, if available, offers a unique viewpoint and great photo opportunities from the water.
Start by visiting the spring itself, then take a walk around the scenic park area. Enjoy the natural beauty, and if you have time, take a boat ride for a unique perspective. End your visit by relaxing by the water or exploring nearby temples if they are part of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Pipa Spring. However, special tours or events may be offered during specific festivals or cultural celebrations. It is best to check ahead if such events are scheduled.
The site can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays, especially during the off-peak seasons in late autumn and early spring.
Basic facilities, such as toilets, drinking water, and rest areas, are available on-site. There are small food stalls selling snacks, and visitors can purchase souvenirs, but for a wider variety of food, it is best to go to nearby restaurants in Jinan city.
The area around the spring is accessible for children and elderly visitors, although there may be some uneven terrain. The main paths are well-maintained, but those with mobility issues may find the boat ride challenging depending on the availability of assistance.
Mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted. Cash is also acceptable, but credit cards may not be as commonly used in smaller shops and food stalls.
There are small food stalls selling snacks near the spring. For a more substantial meal, it’s recommended to visit restaurants in Jinan city, which is about 20-30 minutes away by taxi.
Vegetarian options are available at the food stalls. For vegan or halal-specific diets, it's better to go to Jinan city where there are more specialized restaurants.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Jinan city, about a 20-minute drive from the Pipa Spring area. Luxury hotels are also available in the city center.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and Thousand Buddha Mountain. These sites are all within a short distance from Pipa Spring and can easily be combined for a day trip.
Souvenir shops sell local crafts, tea, and small souvenirs related to the spring and nearby landmarks. You can also find traditional Chinese handicrafts and local snacks.
Taxis are the most convenient option to continue your trip after visiting Pipa Spring. Public buses are available, but taxis will provide a faster and more direct route to your next destination.
