Located in Jinan, Shandong province, the World's Best Spring Scenic Area covers 3.1 square kilometers and comprises "one river, one lake, three springs and four gardens."

(Aerial view of Baotu Spring, photographed by Wang Xiao)

The "one river" is the city moat. The "one lake" is Daming Lake. The "three springs" are the major spring groups—Baotu, Black Tiger (Heihu), and Five-Dragon Pond (Wulongtan). And the "four gardens" are Baotu Spring Park, Huancheng Park, Five-Dragon Pond Park, and the Daming Lake Scenic Area.

(Baotu Spring, photographed by Wang Qin)

Centered on Baotu Spring, which is known as the "Number One Spring under Heaven," the scenic area presents a seamless integration of spring water flowing into rivers, converging into a lake, and harmoniously coexisting with the ancient Mingfu City. This fusion of springs, rivers, lakes, and cityscape creates a uniquely enchanting waterscape.

The area is home to 71 notable springs across the three main groups—Baotu, Black Tiger, and Five-Dragon Pond—and is acclaimed for the number and variety of its springs, excellent water quality, rich historical and cultural heritage, and important value for scientific research and education.

(Gaily painted pleasure boat on Daming Lake, courtesy of the scenic area)

Daming Lake is a natural lake fed by these converging springs. Remarkably, its water level remains stable through heavy rains and prolonged droughts, earning it the title "Pearl of the Spring City."

The city moat, fed by flowing spring water, encircles the ancient city like a jade belt and links the scenic spots like a necklace. Its 6.9-kilometer waterway has been called "one river linking a hundred sights." A boat ride along the moat lets visitors explore more than 300 renowned scenic and historical sites.