Jinan has a lot to offer to visitors throughout the year. Taking a boat ride along the moat is popular in summer. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Around 50 kilometers to the east of the old city area, a park of Baimai Springs, which translates to "100 springs", located in Jinan's Zhangqiu district, is a popular place on weekends.

In the park, spring water flows over stone steps.

Springs have long been integrated into residents' lives. Authorities have regarded the springs as the lifeblood and soul of the city — the protection of the springs was a major priority when the subway was built and older communities renovated.

In recent years, the local government has boosted the springs with water replenishment and improved the ecological environment in the supply area.

Since 2019, 315 private wells have been closed, which has reduced the use of underground water by 12 million cubic meters, authorities say.

Ecological systems have been substantially improved at water conservation areas around several rivers to ensure abundant underground water supply for the springs.

In cold winters, the mist rises and floats over the springs, adding a mystic touch to the city. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The springs in Jinan not only provide stunning views but also drinking water.

Close to the Black Tiger Spring, there is a spot where people can collect water from pipes. They use the spring water to make tea and cook meals.

"I come here to get water every day. I use the spring water to make tea and porridge," says a Jinan native who gave his name as Li.

"When I was young, my parents put watermelons in the spring water to keep the fruit fresh and cool," he says, adding that the springs in Jinan are a way of life.

Springs are an important part of local life in Jinan. People enjoy outdoor activities around the springs and collect spring water to cook meals and make tea. [PHOTO BY ZHAO RUIXUE/CHINA DAILY]

Fountains are set in the old city area where tourists can get supplies.

Freddy Fredes, from Chile, who studied in Shandong Normal University, is impressed.

"Walking around the parks and springs, you can see the trees, the springs and the plants. You feel so relaxed and you feel so good with yourself," he says.

"Many people think that the protection of the environment and the development of the city are opposite things, but in Jinan, I realized that these two things can be carried out together at the same time."

Springs are an important part of local life in Jinan. People enjoy outdoor activities around the springs and collect spring water to cook meals and make tea. [PHOTO BY ZHAO RUIXUE/CHINA DAILY]

Springs are an important part of local life in Jinan. People enjoy outdoor activities around the springs and collect spring water to cook meals and make tea. [PHOTO BY ZHAO RUIXUE/CHINA DAILY]