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Visit the spring and enjoy the serene environment, take a walk around the surrounding park, and enjoy the clear waters. The area is also perfect for photography, especially the tranquil water reflections. A great spot for relaxing and appreciating nature.
Shuyuan Spring (formerly known as Dongliu Spring) is located in Shuyuan Village at the foot of Tianchi Mountain, east of Hongfan Lake. It is mentioned in the old Dong'e County Chronicles. It was named after Liu Yu, the Ming Dynasty Zhongcheng, who built a college near the spring. The pond is square, with stone banks. Water gushes out from the rock crevices, forming an 8-meter-long pool. The daily flow exceeds 800 cubic meters. The water flows out from the mouth of a stone dragon head carved on the south wall, winds along a stone channel, around streets and houses, weaves through the forest, and finally flows into the Langxi River.
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
Included in the 25 yuan entrance fee to Shuyuan Village Scenic Area
All day
Shuyuan Spring is one of Jinan's famous natural springs, known for its clear and pure water that has been celebrated for centuries. The spring is a part of Jinan’s rich cultural heritage and plays a role in the city’s iconic spring tourism.
Shuyuan Spring is located in the heart of Jinan, Shandong. It is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or walking from central areas. The nearest metro station is the Jinan Railway Station, from where you can take a short bus or taxi ride.
Shuyuan Spring is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant and the spring area is surrounded by blooming flowers.
The entrance fee is about 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various local ticket platforms.
While tickets are available on-site, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during weekends or public holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to explore Shuyuan Spring and the surrounding area, depending on your pace and interest in photography or relaxing by the water.
The must-see highlights include the clear spring waters, the surrounding gardens, and the peaceful pathways. The area is also known for its traditional architectural elements, adding cultural value to the natural beauty.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. For non-Mandarin speakers, it is recommended to check if there are any English-speaking guides available on-site or use a translation app for assistance.
The best viewpoints are around the spring itself and along the nearby walking paths, where you can capture the reflections of the trees and traditional buildings in the water. The surrounding garden is also a good spot for photography.
Start by visiting the main spring area, enjoy a peaceful walk around the water, and then explore the surrounding gardens. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the paths leading to the other springs nearby.
There are no night visits or light shows at Shuyuan Spring. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the natural scenery and the peaceful atmosphere.
Shuyuan Spring can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings during weekdays, especially in the off-season months of winter or early spring.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and a few small shops are available near the spring. There are also some food vendors and cafes nearby for a light snack or drink.
The area is mostly accessible, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some parts of the walking path may be a bit challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, though it is manageable for most people with assistance.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at most places. Cash may still be accepted at smaller local shops, so it's good to carry some on hand.
There are several small local restaurants and cafes near the spring, offering Chinese snacks and light meals. For a broader selection, you can explore the dining options in downtown Jinan.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants, though halal food options may be limited. Visitors can check nearby eateries in Jinan for more options.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses near Shuyuan Spring. For more luxurious options, you can choose from a range of hotels in downtown Jinan.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and Thousand Buddha Mountain. These can all be easily visited in a single day for a complete Jinan experience.
Souvenir shops near Shuyuan Spring offer local crafts, traditional Chinese items such as tea, pottery, and calligraphy sets. These make for good mementos of your visit.
After visiting Shuyuan Spring, taxis or public transport (buses or metro) are the most convenient ways to continue your journey. You can also use a ride-hailing service for a more direct route.
