Exploring Libo Xiaoqikong: A Green Gem Paradise on Earth's Belt

Preparation 1. Documents: ID card, discount documents (such as student ID, senior citizen card, etc.). Some travelers can enjoy ticket discounts with relevant documents. 2. Clothing: The scenic area involves a lot of walking, so comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended. For summer visits, bring light, breathable clothes, sun protection clothing, sun hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses. In winter, dress warmly with thick jackets. 3. Other items: Power bank, rain gear (weather in the scenic area can be changeable), backpack, and a small amount of cash (although mobile payment is accepted in most places, it's good to have cash just in case). If you enjoy photography, don't forget to bring your camera or a fully charged phone. 4. Advance booking: During peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book tickets and accommodation in advance through the official WeChat account or major travel platforms to avoid delays in your itinerary. Scenic Area Information - Opening hours: Usually 07:30 - 17:00 (specific times may vary depending on the season or special circumstances; it's recommended to check the official announcements before your trip). - Ticket prices: The combined ticket (entrance + shuttle bus) is generally around 170 yuan, subject to the actual pricing of the scenic area. The ticket includes access to both Xiaoqikong and Daqikong scenic areas. - Luggage storage: The scenic area provides free luggage storage services, but availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also paid storage services available for about 5 yuan per item. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation - High-speed rail: Take the high-speed train from Guiyang North Station to Libo Station, which costs about 100 yuan per person and takes about 1 hour. After arriving, you can take the scenic area bus (about 25 yuan) or public bus (about 5 yuan) directly to Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, which takes about 25 minutes. - Air travel: Libo Airport has relatively few flights. After arriving at the airport, you can take the airport shuttle, taxi, or transfer to other transportation to reach the scenic area. - Self-driving: From Guiyang, drive along the Lanhai Expressway and Majia Expressway, covering a total distance of about 250 kilometers. Depending on road conditions, the driving time is approximately 3-4 hours. Navigate to the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area East Gate Visitor Center or East Gate Ticket Office. 2. Internal Transportation: The main mode of transportation within the scenic area is the shuttle bus, which covers all major attractions. The shuttle stops at each attraction, allowing travelers to explore and then board at the corresponding stop to proceed to the next attraction. Additionally, the Yuanyang Lake boating activity requires a separate fee of about 30 yuan per person. Recommended Routes 1. West Gate Route (Recommended, downhill all the way, less strenuous): Wolong Pool (admire the sapphire-like lake water, optional boating) → Yuanyang Lake (enjoy boating through the water maze) → Tianzhong Cave (explore the cave formations created millions of years ago, ticket 8 yuan) → Emerald Valley Waterfall (view the tallest waterfall in the scenic area, over 60 meters high) → Water Forest (walk through and experience the unique water landscape, choose between regular cement path or stepping stones) → Forest on Stones (observe the 68-tier cascading waterfall along the way) → Broken Bridge Waterfall (photo opportunity) → Laya Waterfall (feel the cool mist from the splashing waterfall) → Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge (iconic spot of the scenic area, built in the 15th year of the Daoguang Emperor's reign during the Qing Dynasty) → Daqikong Scenic Area (optional boat tour, 20 yuan per person). 2. East Gate Route: Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge → Laya Waterfall → Broken Bridge Waterfall → Forest on Stones (observe the 68-tier cascading waterfall) → Water Forest → Emerald Valley Waterfall → Tianzhong Cave → Yuanyang Lake → Wolong Pool → Daqikong Scenic Area. This route is uphill all the way, requiring more physical stamina and is not recommended for elderly people or children. Time Arrangement - One-day tour: Arrive at the West Gate early in the morning and visit each attraction according to the recommended route. Adjust the time spent at each attraction based on personal preference, but be mindful of time to avoid rushing later. Have a simple lunch at rest areas or restaurants within the scenic area to replenish energy. If time is tight, you can skip the Daqikong Scenic Area. - Two-day tour: Arrive at the scenic area in the afternoon of the first day and explore the Daqikong Scenic Area to experience its majestic scenery. Stay overnight at a hotel or guesthouse near the scenic area. On the second day, enter the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area from the West Gate early in the morning and leisurely explore each attraction. Return to Libo County town for accommodation in the evening and experience the local nightlife. Food Recommendations 1. Libo Sour Meat: A local specialty of fermented pork that is tangy and flavorful, fatty but not greasy, and can be eaten with rice or flatbread. 2. Tofu Grilled Fish: Tender fish meat paired with smooth tofu, seasoned with unique spices and grilled until the skin is golden, resulting in tender, flavorful fish with an enticing aroma. 3. Fresh-boiled Beef Noodles: Fresh beef slices cooked in boiling beef broth, served with smooth rice noodles, topped with green onions and cilantro, creating a delicious and flavorful soup. 4. Bayberry Soup: Made from fresh bayberries, this sweet and sour soup is refreshing and helps cut through greasiness, making it a perfect thirst-quencher while exploring. 5. Water Fern with Cured Meat: Water fern has a fresh and tender texture, paired with savory cured meat, offering a unique wild vegetable flavor worth trying. Recommended food hub: Zhangjiang Food Street in Libo County town, which gathers various local specialties and snacks, allowing you to taste all of Libo's delicacies in one place. Accommodation Suggestions 1. Libo County Town: Rich in accommodation options with a wide price range, from budget hotels to luxury hotels. Convenient transportation and well-equipped facilities for dining and shopping. You can also visit the night market in the evening to experience local nightlife. For example, Libo Four Seasons Garden Hotel offers large floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views. 2. Near the East Gate (Mengliubu Yi Folk Custom Town): Close to the scenic area, convenient for early entry to avoid peak crowds. The town has a strong Buyi ethnic flavor, with accommodations mainly consisting of guesthouses and inns in a beautiful environment. For example, Libo Xiaoqikong Ruijing Hotel is located within the scenic area and includes tickets to both Xiaoqikong and Daqikong. Important Notes 1. Some paths in the scenic area are steep and slippery. Pay attention to safety while exploring, especially near waterfalls and in the Water Forest area. Watch your step and avoid running or horsing around. 2. If visiting in summer, take precautions against sun exposure and mosquitoes. Bring enough drinking water, stay hydrated, and avoid heatstroke. 3. When boating on Yuanyang Lake, follow staff instructions and wear life jackets. Tianzhong Cave is relatively dark inside, so watch your step and avoid touching the stalactites. 4. Respect local customs and religious beliefs, and travel responsibly.