• How hardcore are the elders in Jinan? Swimming in the moat in winter and playing cards by the spring—they sure know how to have fun!

Folks, if you're traveling to Jinan, you must bookmark this guide! It guarantees you'll visit the most interesting attractions and eat the most authentic local food at the lowest cost! First stop, head straight to Baotu Spring, ticket price 40 yuan. As the "No. 1 Spring Under Heaven," the sight of its three gushing springs is absolutely breathtaking and totally worth the visit! Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds, snap beautiful photos, and swing by Li Qingzhao's former residence near Shuyu Spring to experience where this talented poetess once lived. Next, check out Daming Lake, free entry. This is the legendary site of Xia Yuhe—don't miss the boat rides and lotus viewing. Also, visit Chaoran Tower; the lighting-up moment at 18:50 is stunningly beautiful, so grab a front-row spot early! After the lights, stroll along the moat for mesmerizing night views. Don’t skip Qushuiting Street—it’s free! Dubbed the "Jiangnan Water Town of the North," this street with springs running through it is pure vibes. Navigate to "Qifeng Bridge No. 8" for Instagram-worthy shots with its mint-green walls and heart-shaped windows. Tired? Grab a stick of sour candy—it’s refreshingly sweet and tangy. Heihu Spring is also free, where three tiger-head carvings gush water with a roaring sound—truly spectacular. Bring an empty bottle to collect spring water for tea; the aroma is divine! Nearby Liberation Pavilion is a Hanfu photography hotspot at night—absolutely legendary. In Jinan, Qianfo Mountain is a must, ticket 30 yuan. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Jinan. Xingguo Temple on the mountainside is said to bring academic and career luck—worth a visit if you need blessings. After descending, head to Shandong Museum to admire treasures like the Red Pottery Beast-Shaped Pot and soak in history. Hungry? Time for food! Try Ba Zi Rou (braised pork)—we recommend Chao Yixing, just 15 yuan per person. The melt-in-your-mouth pork over rice, paired with rolled omelet and fried eggs, is plate-licking good. Also, don’t miss You Xuan (crispy pancakes) and Tian Mo (sweet porridge)—You Xuan Zhang’s crispy pancakes with Tian Mo Tang’s rich porridge create a perfect salty-sweet combo, a favorite of Ji Xianlin. And grab pork soup dumplings at Caobao Steamed Bun Shop—bursting with broth, each bite is pure bliss. For lodging, splurge at InterContinental Jinan City Center for prime views over Quancheng Square. Budget-friendly? Atour S Hotel Quancheng Square is clean and just 5 minutes from Baotu Spring. Students can opt for hostels near Hongjialou—youthful vibe, beds from 50 yuan. Getting around is easy—most attractions are walkable or bikeable. For buses, search "Jinan Cloud Bus Card" on Alipay for e-tickets. A 24-hour day pass costs just 6 yuan—worth it after 3 rides! Bookmark this guide now and embark on an unforgettable trip to Jinan!