Qushuiting Street

Qushuiting Street is a historic lane in Jinan that runs alongside a creek and is lined with willow trees throughout its length. It connects several important sites in the city and preserves buildings that reflect traditional Chinese residential design.

The street emerged during China's early imperial period and served scholars and artists as a gathering place. Over centuries it maintained its role as a cultural hub and became linked with the region's literary heritage.

The name comes from a drinking game where scholars composed poetry along the waterway. Visitors today can sense this literary tradition in how the street functions as a gathering place for those interested in classical Chinese culture and history.

The street is easily accessible and located near Daming Lake, one of the city's main landmarks. Visitors should come in early morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter conditions and see the traditional surroundings in better light.

Many traditional houses along the lane had their own wells and spring sources, an uncommon feature in ancient Chinese urban design. This water-centered layout allowed residents to live in close contact with natural water sources throughout their homes.