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The Ancient Hot Spring in Jinan offers a relaxing experience in its natural thermal baths. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the mineral-rich waters, known for their therapeutic properties. The surrounding area also provides beautiful gardens, ideal for a leisurely walk. For those interested in history, the spring is rich in cultural significance and has been used for centuries for relaxation and healing.
Located southeast of Wulongtan, the Ancient Hot Spring earned its name due to its high water temperature and rich history. Even in the depths of winter, with biting winds and heavy snow, steam rises from the spring. During the Qing Dynasty, Yiyuan Garden was built next to the spring, but it was later abandoned. South of the spring stands a two-story building, which served as the early headquarters of the Shandong Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China.
Ancient hot springs are recorded in the "Famous Springs Monument" of the Jin Dynasty, the "Seventy-two Springs Poems" by Yan Bi of the Ming Dynasty, and the "Famous Springs Monument" by Hao Zhi of the Qing Dynasty.
One of the "72 Famous Springs" in Jinan, as recorded in Gong's "Records of the 72 Springs," it belongs to the "Wulongtan Spring Group." Because the water maintains a constant temperature in both winter and summer, it was called "Hot Spring" in ancient times. Locals, however, refer to it as "Ancient Hot Spring" due to its age.
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.
Recommended one-day tour
Included in the 5 yuan entrance fee to Wulongtan Park
7:00-19:00
The Ancient Hot Spring in Jinan has a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is famous for its naturally occurring mineral-rich waters, which have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. The spring is part of Jinan’s cultural heritage and is deeply connected to the region's traditional wellness practices.
The Ancient Hot Spring is located in the city of Jinan, Shandong Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transport, with buses and taxis regularly servicing the area. Visitors can also walk from nearby attractions like Baotu Spring Park, which is a short distance away.
The Ancient Hot Spring is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The spring is particularly beautiful in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.
The entrance fee to the Ancient Hot Spring is around ¥80 to ¥150, depending on the facilities and services you choose. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online booking platforms for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer) to avoid waiting in line. You can book tickets a day or two in advance online.
Visiting the Ancient Hot Spring typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you are only soaking in the spring or if you plan to explore the surrounding park and facilities. Allow additional time for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
The main highlight is the hot spring itself, where visitors can relax in the mineral-rich waters. The surrounding gardens and the historical spring baths are also worth exploring. Take time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be available in English for an additional fee. It's advisable to inquire at the entrance for availability.
The best photography spots are around the hot spring pools, especially with the lush gardens and surrounding ancient architecture as a backdrop. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photos.
Start by soaking in the hot spring to relax and enjoy the therapeutic water. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the surrounding gardens and explore the historical elements of the spring, such as the old baths and architectural features.
Night visits are possible as the hot spring is open until 9:00 PM. However, there are no light shows or special nighttime tours. It’s a great time to visit for a quieter and more relaxing experience.
The hot spring can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or late afternoons, especially outside of peak seasons.
Facilities include public toilets, water fountains, and small rest areas. There are no large restaurants within the hot spring area, but you can find food vendors offering local snacks. A small gift shop sells souvenirs and bath-related products.
The hot spring area is mostly accessible, with paved walkways and seating areas. However, some parts might require walking on uneven paths, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to contact the venue ahead of time for specific accessibility information.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at the Ancient Hot Spring. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payments are more convenient for ticket purchases and services.
Inside the hot spring area, there are a few snack stands selling local delicacies. For more dining options, visitors can head to nearby restaurants in the Jinan city center, which offer a wide range of Chinese and local Shandong cuisine.
While vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, halal food is less common in this area. It's recommended to inquire at specific restaurants for halal options.
There are several hotels in Jinan city center, which is a short distance from the Ancient Hot Spring. Options include the Sofitel Jinan and Shandong Hotel. These hotels provide convenient access to the hot spring and other city attractions.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and the Black Tiger Spring. All of these are located in the city center and can easily be visited in a day trip, making Jinan a great destination for exploring both natural and cultural sites.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the hot spring. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, traditional teas, and bath-related products like bath salts and oils.
Visitors can take a taxi or bus to explore other parts of Jinan. If continuing to other cities, Jinan Railway Station and the high-speed train station offer easy access to regional destinations.
