The iconic Baotu Spring, part of the World's Best Spring Scenic Area in Lixia district. [Photo/WeChat account: quanyoujinan]

Lixia district's World's Best Spring Scenic Area and Qianfo Mountain have been named outstanding innovation projects by the Jinan Culture and Tourism Bureau, marking a major step in the district's cultural tourism development.

Lixia district has been integrating traditional culture with modern consumption through innovation. The two flagship scenic spots have become exemplars of this approach.

The World's Best Spring Scenic Area coordinated its key sites, including Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, Wulong Pool, and Huancheng Park, to host an immersive lantern fair. Showcasing light shows and intangible cultural heritage, the event attracted widespread attention, reaching over one billion views.

Qianfo Mountain introduced markets and fairs themed around traditional festivals, including a Song Dynasty (960–1279) style fair, bringing history and traditions to life through exhibitions and performances.

Both scenic spots have embraced modern technologies to improve the visitor experience, including a smart guide system and a one-stop ticketing service. They have also integrated provincial-level intangible cultural heritage with modern elements, creating vibrant and interactive experiences such as the Xia Yuhe Lantern at the World's Best Spring Scenic Area.

Meanwhile, the two sites foster diverse consumption scenarios through fairs, introducing renowned stores, and promoting cultural shopping, enhancing both engagement and economic impact.

In the future, Lixia will continue to explore innovative approaches to cultural tourism, injecting impetus into its scenic spots.