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Visit the famous Baotu Spring to admire its crystal-clear water and explore the surrounding scenic area. Take a boat ride on the nearby Moat, walk through the traditional gardens, and visit the nearby historical temples. The spring is also known for its cultural significance, making it ideal for those interested in Chinese history and folklore.
Baotu Spring Park, a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction, is located in the bustling heart of Jinan, Shandong Province. Nestled against Thousand Buddha Mountain to the south, Daming Lake to the north, and connected to Quancheng Square to the east, it is a renowned cultural park focused on its springs and cultural landscapes. Baotu Spring, also known as Kanquan, is the source of the Luo River.
Baotu Spring's three caves erupt simultaneously, creating a sound like hidden thunder. "The spring surges upward, the water surging like a wheel." The spring water maintains a constant temperature of around 18°C year-round. In the depths of winter, vapor curls above the surface like a thin layer of mist. On one side, the spring pool shimmers with deep, shimmering water; on the other, pavilions with colorful paintings and carved beams and painted buildings create a wondrous paradise on earth.
In 1956, Baotu Spring was renovated and designated a park. After several expansions, it gradually became a spring-themed, exquisitely designed park with a changing landscape. Its area has expanded from less than 3.4 hectares to 10.5 hectares. Baotu Spring is the symbol and hallmark of Jinan, the City of Springs, and is considered one of Jinan's three major scenic spots, along with Thousand Buddha Mountain and Daming Lake.
Baotu Spring has a large amount of water from July to August, and the spring gushes out beautifully when there is abundant rainfall.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
40 yuan/person
7:00-18:00
Baotu Spring is one of the most famous natural springs in China, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists throughout Chinese history. Known as the "No. 1 Spring under Heaven," it is highly regarded for its pure water and historical importance in Jinan, which is famous for its many springs.
Baotu Spring is located in the city of Jinan, Shandong Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. There is a metro station nearby, and several buses serve the area. It is also within walking distance from many central Jinan hotels.
Baotu Spring Scenic Area is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Weekdays are usually less crowded compared to weekends and public holidays.
The entrance fee for Baotu Spring Scenic Area is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or you can buy them online through local travel platforms, especially during peak seasons.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or public holidays. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance to avoid long lines.
You will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore Baotu Spring and its surrounding scenic area, depending on how much time you want to spend at each spot.
Must-see highlights include Baotu Spring itself, the Spring Museum, the surrounding gardens, and the nearby Daming Lake. The Moat and several ancient pavilions offer picturesque spots for photography and relaxation.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese are available for rent at the entrance. The audio guides provide detailed explanations about the history and cultural significance of Baotu Spring.
The best viewpoints are from the edge of Baotu Spring and the surrounding gardens, as well as the pavilion near the Spring Museum. These spots offer great photo opportunities, especially with the reflections in the spring’s clear water.
Start by visiting the Baotu Spring, then head to the nearby Spring Museum for historical context. Afterward, explore the gardens and pavilions before walking along the Moat for a relaxing boat ride or stroll. Finally, visit the Daming Lake area, which is nearby.
Currently, there are no light shows or night visits available at Baotu Spring. However, special tours may be available during festivals or events, so it’s worth checking in advance if you plan to visit during those times.
Baotu Spring can get crowded during weekends, public holidays, and peak seasons (spring and autumn). To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, particularly in the off-peak months (winter and early spring).
The area has public toilets, drinking water stations, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. There are also a few local restaurants nearby for a more substantial meal.
Baotu Spring is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths and ramps for easy access. However, some of the historical areas may have stairs or uneven paths that can be more challenging.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards are accepted at the entrance and in larger shops.
There are a few small cafes and restaurants inside the Baotu Spring Scenic Area serving light snacks. Nearby, you can find local restaurants offering Shandong cuisine, including grilled fish and dumplings.
Vegetarian options are available in most of the nearby restaurants, especially those serving traditional Chinese cuisine. Halal food options can be found in some of the local eateries catering to the Muslim community in Jinan.
There are several hotels near Baotu Spring, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options like Sheraton Jinan Hotel and Sofitel Jinan. Many are within walking distance of the scenic area.
Other nearby attractions include Daming Lake, the Black Tiger Spring, and the Jinan Old City. These can be easily combined with a visit to Baotu Spring in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near Baotu Spring selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, such as tea sets, calligraphy, and local artwork. Other popular souvenirs include Baotu Spring-themed items like water bottles and postcards.
After visiting Baotu Spring, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach other attractions in Jinan, such as Daming Lake. The city also has a well-connected train station for trips to nearby cities like Qingdao or Beijing.
