The Xiaoqing River, which carries overflow from Jinan's springs north to the sea, has been developed into a greenway park in the northern part of the city. The river-side path is popular with cyclists, joggers, and families; along its length are fishing platforms, wetland viewing areas, and stretches of native riparian vegetation that provide habitat for waterbirds.
This is practical nature accessible within the city rather than a dramatic landscape, but on a clear morning when the spring water runs clean and herons stand in the shallows, it has a genuine charm. Bicycles can be rented along the path for around ¥5–10 per hour; the greenway extends several kilometres toward the Yellow River in the north.