China's traditional courtyard-style houses, or siheyuan, are usually associated with the narrow winding streets of Beijing, but can also be found in Jinan.
Siheyuan is a traditional style of housing that is generally composed of an enclosed square courtyard surrounded by buildings on all four sides.
In ancient times, a spacious siheyuan would be occupied by a single, usually large and extended family, signifying wealth and prosperity.
Some siheyuan in Jinan are still well-preserved due to protection and restoration efforts.
Zhang's residence
The Zhang's residence has been preserved for more than 330 years. [Photo/jinannews.cn]
Next to Wangfu Pool in Lixia district is the renowned Zhang's residence, where a local family surnamed Zhang has been living for more than 330 years.
The compound features a five-courtyard design with more than 50 rooms. The paths are all paved with flagstones, typical of traditional residences in Shandong province.
Due to its long history, only the northern and eastern quarters of the residence still retain the architectural style of the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and the beginning of the Republic of China.
Zhang Ruzhuo and his wife Li Jinlian are the 17th generation of the family to protect the ancient residence. After restoration, the dwelling has become a notable landmark in Jinan's ancient urban area.
Location: No 9 Wangfu Pool Street, Quancheng Road, Lixia district
The Source Boutique Guest House
The Source Boutique Guest House, hidden away in the century-old Bianzhi Alley, is an ancient siheyuan featuring elements of the city's spring culture. [Photo/jinannews.cn]
The Source Boutique Guest House, hidden away in the century-old Bianzhi Alley, is an ancient siheyuan featuring elements of the city's spring culture.
With pointed eaves, black brick walls, antique wooden gates, a pomegranate tree over 50 years of age, and two gushing springs, the residence is both serene and secluded.
It has become a popular homestay spot thanks to the efforts of Yu Tianwei, a native of Jinan.
In a bid to boost the city's traditional spring water culture, Yu came up with the idea to open a homestay with its own private spring water.
Yu invested more than one million yuan ($142,857) to redesign and renovate the broken siheyuan into a homestay where visitors can not only experience spring culture but also enjoy high-quality hotel services.
The Source Boutique Guest House has become a popular homestay and costs from 680 to 2,800 yuan.
Location: No 89 Bianzhi Alley, Quancheng Road, Lixia district
Traditional siheyuan converted into popular bar
The bar, called Large, is located in Bianzhi Alley and features elegant designs with antique wooden gates and windows as well as stone-paved lanes. [Photo/jinannews.cn]
Zhu Xiaoran, a Jinan native born in 1988, converted a dilapidated traditional siheyuan into a popular bar in just three-month time.
The bar, called Large, is located in Bianzhi Alley and features elegant designs with antique wooden gates and windows as well as stone-paved lanes. A wooden bar and chairs with warm lighting create a relaxing atmosphere.
Location: No 103 Bianzhi Alley, Quancheng Road, Lixia district
Interior of Large [Photo/jinannews.cn]
