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Crescent Lake is renowned for its serene beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lake's perimeter, take boat rides to appreciate the surrounding landscape, and explore nearby historical sites.
Crescent Moon Lake, one of Jinan's famous springs, is recorded in the Republic of China's "Revised Annals of Licheng County," belonging to the Wulongtan Springs. According to Wang Peixun's "Reminiscences of Hometown and Garden" from the Qing Dynasty, "Crescent Moon Lake is located in the northern alley outside the West Gate. Its shape resembles a crescent moon, hence its name. The water is extremely clear. Facing the spring is the Wang family residence. Across a wall lies a vast pool, housing dozens of red fish, several feet long and as thick as barrels. It's unknown how long this has been maintained." The spring was renovated in 1964 to expand its surface. The pool is surrounded by a patchwork of Taihu stones, with a three-meter-tall stone standing in the water, resembling a jade rabbit in the Moon Palace.
Crescent Lake is located in Wulongtan Park, the "No. 1 Spring in the World" scenic area, east of the ancient hot spring. The spring's shape is irregular. In 1964, the surface area was expanded and revetted with natural stone, creating a mushroom-shaped rock formation in the water. Weeping willows surround the area, offering visitors shade and a chance to enjoy the spring.
When the spring is full, water gushes out from the rocks and cascades down, resembling a waterfall or a curtain of water, creating a spectacular crescent-shaped waterfall within a spring. Crescent Lake has the highest water level of any of Jinan's 72 famous springs, erupting only when the water level reaches 29 meters. The appearance of this "crescent-shaped waterfall" signals the eruption of all 72 springs.
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
Included in the 5 yuan entrance fee to Wulongtan Park
7:00-19:00
Jinan, known as the "City of Springs," has a rich history dating back to the 8th century BCE. It served as the capital of the State of Qi during the Zhou Dynasty and later became the seat of Licheng County in the 2nd century BCE. The city's abundance of natural springs has made it a cultural and historical hub in China.
Crescent Lake is situated in the eastern part of Jinan. Visitors can reach the lake via public transportation, including buses and taxis. The city also offers bike-sharing services for those who prefer cycling.
The lake is typically open from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the natural surroundings are at their most picturesque.
The entrance fee is approximately 110 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through various online travel platforms.
While it's not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it's recommended during peak tourist seasons to ensure entry. Booking a few days ahead is advisable.
A visit to Crescent Lake typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, allowing time for leisurely walks, boat rides, and exploration of nearby attractions.
Key highlights include the crescent-shaped lake itself, surrounding gardens, and historical structures nearby.
Guided tours are available and can be arranged at the entrance or through local tour providers. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages, including English and Chinese.
The best photography spots are along the lake's edge, especially during sunrise and sunset when the lighting is optimal. Elevated platforms nearby offer panoramic views of the area.
Start with a walk around the lake's perimeter, enjoy a boat ride, and then explore the surrounding gardens and historical sites.
While the lake is not typically open for night visits, the surrounding area is beautifully illuminated in the evenings, offering a different perspective of the scenery.
Weekdays, especially in the early mornings, tend to be less crowded. Weekends and public holidays see higher visitor numbers.
The area around Crescent Lake is equipped with basic facilities, including restrooms, water fountains, and seating areas. Nearby shops and food stalls offer local snacks and refreshments.
The main pathways around the lake are paved and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some areas may have uneven terrain.
Many establishments accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller vendors.
There are several restaurants and cafes near Crescent Lake offering a variety of cuisines, including local Shandong dishes and international options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many eateries. Halal food can be found in restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are numerous hotels ranging from budget to luxury near Crescent Lake, providing convenient accommodation options for visitors.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and Thousand Buddha Mountain, all of which can be visited within a day.
Souvenir shops near Crescent Lake offer a variety of items, including local handicrafts, tea sets, and traditional Chinese art.
Public buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services are readily available for onward travel. The city's main train station and airport are easily accessible from Crescent Lake.
