Red Leaves Valley (红叶谷, Hongyegu) is a picturesque near-suburban destination known for its rich ecological and cultural appeal. Home to over 400 plant species, including yellow catalpa, red maple, and wisteria, the area boasts approximately one million plants. The canyon is divided into ten themed zones, such as the Lily Garden, Cherry Blossom Garden, Rose Garden, Colorful Autumn Lake, Tianqu Garden, Xingjiao Temple, Plum Garden, Shambhala Leisure Valley, European Style Valley, and Lover’s Valley. These gardens are seamlessly integrated with the natural landscape of green mountains, clear waters, spiritual springs, and serene valleys, earning it the nickname “Jiuzhaigou of the North.”
In addition to its unique wild yellow hornbeam forests, Red Leaves Canyon features over 4,000 acres of various maple species, including pentagon maple, triangle maple, Japanese maple, Chinese tallow, and red maple. Every autumn, the entire area transforms into a vibrant display of red leaves, creating an unparalleled natural spectacle.
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Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | 100 RMB (1st October – 30th November) 80 RMB (1st December – 30th September) |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.00; Last admission: 15.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0432-67160198 |
Location and Transportation
Red Leaves Canyon is located in Jinan’s Licheng District, specifically 3 kilometers south of the Jinxiuchuan Reservoir in Zhonggong Subdistrict, Shandong Province. It is approximately 33 kilometers from Jinan city center. To get there, you can take the 65 bus, which costs 3 yuan. Simply get off at the “Red Leaves Canyon” stop, and you’ll be right at the entrance of this scenic area.
Highlights of Red Leaves Valley
Xingjiao Temple
Xingjiao Temple, commonly known as Zhu Lao An, is a historic temple recently reconstructed to revive its past glory. The temple complex features Tang Dynasty-style architecture, including the Grand Hall, Guanyin Hall, Yijing Zen Hall, side halls, and the main gate. One of the most notable structures within the temple grounds is the tall and elegant stone bell-shaped pagoda, which serves as a tomb for a high-ranking monk. This pagoda was constructed during the Tianshun era of the Ming Dynasty and is adorned with intricate carvings of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
The design of the stone pagoda follows traditional Buddhist practices, where the shape of the tomb signifies the time of the monk’s passing. A bell-shaped tomb indicates a morning passing, while a drum-shaped tomb signifies an evening passing. This helps future generations understand the time of the monk’s death. Originally, this pagoda was located in a cemetery near the temple ruins.
Shengshui Spring
Shengshui Spring, situated within the temple’s ruins, is renowned for its pure and life-enhancing water. According to legend, drinking from this spring can grant longevity, which has made it a popular spot for visitors seeking health benefits. The spring emerges from a natural cave on the northwestern mountainside, at an elevation of 575 meters. The crystal-clear water cascades into an irregularly shaped pool and then overflows into a small channel, creating a picturesque waterfall before entering another pool.
The water from Shengshui Spring is rich in essential minerals and trace elements beneficial to human health. To enhance the visitor experience, a tea stove has been constructed nearby, allowing guests to brew tea with the spring water and savor its unique qualities.
European Style Valley
European Style Valley spans over 100 acres and serves as the main exhibition area for tulips in Red Leaves Canyon. This picturesque valley features more than 50 varieties and nearly one million tulips, all of which are premium strains imported from the Netherlands. Every year, from April to May, the Tulip Festival is held, attracting numerous visitors to admire the vibrant blooms.
There is a charming legend associated with tulips. According to the tale, three brave knights fell in love with a beautiful maiden. The first knight gifted her a crown, the second a sword, and the third a pile of gold. However, the maiden did not love any of them and prayed to the Flower Goddess for help. The Flower Goddess, understanding that love cannot be forced, transformed the crown into a flower, the sword into green leaves, and the pile of gold into a bulb, thus creating the tulip. This legend adds to the tulip’s romantic allure, making it a popular choice alongside roses for expressing love on Valentine’s Day.