Nearly 2,000 participants from across China gathered at Quancheng Square in Jinan on July 25 for a spring hopping challenge, which gave them the chance to explore the city's historic springs and experience its distinctive water culture.

Carrying paper maps, participants followed a 5.8-kilometer route through the old city area and along the city moat, visiting 30 spring sites along the way. The route featured landmarks such as Black Tiger Spring, Pearl Spring, Wulongtan Pond, and Wangfu Pool, as well as lesser-known springs including Douya Spring, Yuhuan Spring, and Jiujiao Spring.

Rather than focusing on speed, the challenge encouraged participants to discover Jinan's spring heritage through walking and exploration. By connecting scattered spring attractions into a themed cultural route, the event turned the city's natural resources into an interactive experience for visitors.

Participants who completed 18 checkpoints received certificates and medals, while those who visited all 30 locations could earn special cultural and creative souvenirs.

A spring-themed fair was also held at Quancheng Square during the event, featuring cultural and creative products and intangible cultural heritage items from Jinan's districts and counties, offering visitors a broader glimpse into the city's local culture.

A participant stamps a map while completing checkpoints along the cultural route in Jinan. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Participants visit Douya Spring as part of the spring hopping challenge. [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]