Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area: A Comprehensive Guide

🌟 Overview Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area is a national 5A scenic area and a World Natural Heritage site, famous for its karst landforms and diverse waterscapes. The scenic area stretches 19 km and includes natural wonders such as the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, waterfalls, forest lakes, and more. It is known as the "Green Gem on the Earth's Belt." 📅 Opening Hours - Main Scenic Area: 8:00am–4:30pm (ticket sales stop at 4:00pm, entry stops at 4:30pm) - Cuigu Waterfall: 7:30am–5:00pm - Daqikong Combined Ticket Area: Same opening hours as the main scenic area 🎫 Ticket Prices - Combined Ticket (Xiaoqikong + Daqikong): CNY 170 per adult (including sightseeing bus), valid for 7 days. - Discount Tickets: Half price for students and seniors aged 60–69; free for military personnel, people with disabilities, children under 14, and seniors over 70. - Additional Fees: CNY 30 per person for boating on Yuanyang Lake, CNY 8 per person for Tianzhong Cave, and CNY 50 per person for rafting. 📍 Must-See Attractions (in recommended visiting order) 1. Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge - Features: Built during the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty, this seven-arch stone bridge spans the Xiangshui River, set against a backdrop of ancient trees. It's an ideal spot for photos. - Location: At the east entrance of the scenic area. 2. Laya Waterfall & 68-Tiered Waterfall - Features: The 68 cascading waterfalls complement the Laya Waterfall, creating a thunderous and refreshing spectacle. - Suggested Duration: 1 hr 3. Water Forest - Features: Walk through the forest and streams on the rocks. Wading is required, so sandals are recommended. - Route: From Shishang Senlin Station to Cuigu Station, approx. 1 km. 4. Cuigu Waterfall - Features: Filming location for *Survivor Games*, the waterfall cascades down the mountainside and is perfect for splashing around. - Opening Hours: 7:30am–5:00pm 5. Wolongtan Lake - Features: The turquoise lake water is reminiscent of Jiuzhaigou. Rafting is available (CNY 50 per person), ending at Yuanyang Lake. - Photo Spot: The viewing platform by the lake. 6. Yuanyang Lake - Features: Explore the water maze by boat. The lake's reflections are picturesque. Allow about 1 hr. - Fee: CNY 30 per person for self-paddled boats. 🍜 Food Recommendations - Snacks in the Scenic Area: Grilled corn, tofu with grilled fish, sour soup beef noodles, and shrimp and sour beef. - Specialty Restaurants (near No. 6, Scenic Area Road): - Sour Soup Fish Hot Pot: Local Miao cuisine, sour and spicy. - Beef Noodles: Rich broth with special chili sauce. 🚗 Transportation - By Car: Approx. 4 hrs from Guiyang. Navigate to "Xiaoqikong Scenic Area East Gate." - Public Transportation: Take Bus No. 11 from Libo County to the east gate (40 mins, CNY 7). ⚠️ Important Notes 1. Book Tickets in Advance: Reservations are required through the "Libo Xiaoqikong Ticketing Official Website" or the "One Code Tour Guizhou" mini-program. 2. Essential Items: ID card, raincoat, non-slip shoes, and sunscreen. 3. No Drones: Drones are prohibited throughout the entire area. 4. Best Time to Visit: April–August for abundant water flow, October–December for blooming spider lilies. Summary Libo Xiaoqikong combines mountains, water, caves, and forests. A 1–2 day visit is recommended for in-depth exploration. Entering from the east gate allows you to visit the core attractions in sequence and avoid peak crowds. If time permits, the combined ticket is valid for 7 days and allows multiple entries. Food prices within the scenic area are moderate. Bringing light snacks is recommended for extra energy.