Daming Lake
Daming Lake is one of the three major scenic spots in Jinan, known as "the pearl of the city." The lake covers an area of 46 hectares and is formed by many springs converging. The lake is surrounded by weeping willows and features numerous pavilions, corridors, and temples.
The name "Daming Lake" first appeared in the Northern Wei Dynasty geographical book "Shui Jing Zhu." During the Tang and Song dynasties, it became increasingly famous. The lake area includes historical sites such as Lixia Pavilion, Tiegong Temple, and Xiaocanglang Pavilion.
The lake is especially beautiful in summer when lotuses bloom across its surface. The famous Qing Dynasty writer Liu E described Daming Lake in his novel "The Travels of Lao Can," writing: "Lotus flowers on all sides, willows on three sides; a city of mountains and half a city of lake."
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: 06:00 - 22:00 (Apr-Oct), 06:30 - 21:00 (Nov-Mar)
- Ticket Price: 30 RMB/person
- Recommended Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
- Best Season: Summer for lotus flowers
Thousand Buddha Mountain
Thousand Buddha Mountain is located south of Jinan city center. Originally known as Lishan, it was renamed Thousand Buddha Mountain during the Sui Dynasty (581-618) when Buddhist statues were carved into the mountain cliffs and temples were built.
The mountain is 285 meters above sea level and features numerous historical sites, including Xingguo Temple, Lishan Courtyard, and thousands of Buddha statues carved during the Sui Dynasty. The mountain offers panoramic views of Jinan city.
Every year on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, the Double Ninth Festival is celebrated here with a temple fair. Visitors climb the mountain to enjoy the autumn scenery and pay respects to the elderly, following traditional customs.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: 06:30 - 18:30 (Apr-Oct), 07:00 - 18:00 (Nov-Mar)
- Ticket Price: 30 RMB/person
- Recommended Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
- Cable Car: Available (additional fee)
