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Enjoy a relaxing day at Langmaoshan Reservoir by taking a boat ride on the reservoir or hiking around its scenic trails. You can also explore the surrounding nature and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water's edge.
Langmaoshan Reservoir, located in the southeastern part of Licheng District, approximately 25 kilometers from the city center, is Jinan's only nationally designated flood control reservoir and the sole surface water source for the city's eastern urban area. The reservoir not only discharges floodwaters from the eastern urban area, but also provides domestic water for tens of thousands of people in the southeastern highlands of Jinan, including institutions of higher learning such as Shandong Jianzhu University and Shandong Commercial Vocational College, as well as for enterprises and institutions such as Dazhong Daily. It also supplies water for key construction projects such as the Jinan Olympic Sports Center and the Government Affairs Center, providing approximately 12,000 cubic meters of water daily.
Langmaoshan Reservoir is a spring-fed reservoir with hundreds of springs upstream. It stands in stark contrast to the nearby Zhaike Reservoir, creating a stunning backdrop. Nearby, visitors can fish for free at Shuangquan Fishing Village, where chefs cook their catch directly on the shore. The fish are delicious, and many return specifically for the authentic silver carp. While the water level is low during the dry season, the emerald waters remain vibrant. In the summer, when the reservoir is full, the vast expanse of mist and the reflections of the lake and mountains are truly captivating. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking, camping, and picnics.
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
Langmaoshan Reservoir is an important water conservation project in Jinan, known for its role in irrigation and flood control. It also serves as a scenic spot for nature lovers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The reservoir is located on the outskirts of Jinan. It is best accessed by taxi or private car. There are no direct metro connections, but you can take a bus to a nearby stop and then walk to the site.
The reservoir is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant. It is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
The entrance fee is around 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the reservoir. There is no online ticketing system, so it is a cash payment on-site.
Advance booking is not necessary. Tickets can be bought on-site at the time of your visit.
You will need approximately 2-3 hours to explore the reservoir and surrounding area, especially if you want to take a boat ride or walk along the trails.
The must-see highlights include the scenic walking trails around the reservoir, the boat rides, and the surrounding hills offering stunning panoramic views of the water and nature.
Guided tours are not commonly available, but you can find local tour guides upon arrival. Most information is provided in Mandarin, though some guides may offer English explanations.
The best viewpoints are from the hills surrounding the reservoir, where you can capture sweeping views of the water and the lush green landscapes. Sunset or early morning offers the best lighting for photography.
Start by exploring the area near the entrance, then hike along the reservoir's edge. Consider taking a boat ride to explore the water, and finish with a relaxing break at one of the rest areas.
Night visits are not available at Langmaoshan Reservoir. The area is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the natural beauty of the landscape is most visible.
The reservoir can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The best times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning before noon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are no large food or shopping areas inside the reservoir. It’s recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
The reservoir has some walking paths, but the terrain can be uneven, making it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the outdoor space, but some paths may not be stroller-friendly.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted.
There are no restaurants inside the reservoir, but several local eateries can be found in the nearby town, offering traditional Chinese food.
Some local restaurants offer vegetarian options. However, halal food may be limited in the area, so it's best to check with the local establishments beforehand.
There are several hotels in Jinan, ranging from budget options to more luxurious accommodations. Many visitors prefer to stay in the city center and travel to the reservoir by taxi or bus.
Nearby attractions include Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and Thousand Buddha Mountain. These landmarks can easily be combined with a visit to Langmaoshan Reservoir in a day trip around Jinan.
There are a few small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling items such as local handicrafts, souvenirs related to the reservoir, and traditional Chinese souvenirs like tea and incense.
After visiting the reservoir, you can take a taxi or bus back to the city center. Jinan's metro system and other public transportation options are easily accessible from the city center.
