HistoricalOverview
1980s: Emerged as a tourist destination, leveraging its karst topography and traditional bridges.
2007: Inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List alongside other South China Karst sites.
2010s–2020s: Enhanced infrastructure and sustainability efforts, including the 2018 launch of eco-friendly shuttle buses.
2023: Collaborated with Guizhou University for biodiversity research, documenting 2,000+ plant species in the region.
StructuralLayout
The site unfolds as a linear path through seven distinct zones, each highlighting unique karst formations and water features:
EntryZone: The Xiaoqikong Bridge, a 20-meter-long stone arch spanning the Lvshui River, symbolizes the site’s fusion of nature and human craftsmanship.
Laozhai Mountain: A 600-step climb rewards visitors with panoramic views of the karst peaks and valley.
Shui spring Forest: A subterranean river system with limestone caves and crystal-clear pools.
Cuiying Hill: Hiking trails wind through ancient cypress groves, leading to hidden waterfalls.
68-Level Falls: A cascading series of rapids and pools, ideal for swimming and photography.
Wild Pig Forest: A dense bamboo and pine ecosystem, home to endangered species like the Guizhou golden monkey.
Tianzhong Cave: A 2-kilometer-long cave with stalactites, underground rivers, and ancient inscriptions.
MajorAttractions
Xiaoqikong Bridge: The site’s namesake, a 180-year-old stone arch bridging the Lvshui River, is a masterpiece of Miao-Dong engineering.
68-Level Falls: A photogenic cascade of tiered waterfalls, each named for its unique shape or mythological significance.
Laozhai Mountain Observation Deck: A 360-degree vantage point overlooking the karst canyon and the bridge below.
Shui Spring Forest Caves: A network of limestone caves with prehistoric fossils and glowworm-lit chambers.
SuggestedItineraries
ClassicRoute (3–4Hours)
Start at Xiaoqikong Bridge → Hike Laozhai Mountain (45 mins) → Explore 68-Level Falls (1 hour) → Stroll Shui Spring Forest (1 hour).
Highlights: Iconic bridge, waterfall cascades, and karst vistas.
CulturalDepthRoute (5–6Hours)
Xiaoqikong Bridge → Tianzhong Cave (1 hour) → Wild Pig Forest Trail (1.5 hours) → Laozhai Mountain (1 hour).
Highlights: Cave exploration, biodiversity, and traditional bridge architecture.
All-DayExploration (FullDay)
Morning: Xiaoqikong Bridge → 68-Level Falls → Shui Spring Forest.
Afternoon: Tianzhong Cave → Wild Pig Forest → Laozhai Mountain Observation Deck.
Highlights: Comprehensive coverage, including cave systems and wildlife.
TicketPurchase
Online: Book via the official Guizhou Tourism website or WeChat mini-program (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Adult tickets cost ¥130; discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and active military personnel.
By Bus: Direct buses from Libo County to Xiaoqikong (1-hour journey, ¥20).
By Taxi: Private taxis from Libo cost ¥80–100 one-way.
Parking: On-site lots accommodate 500+ vehicles (¥10/day).
BestTime&Tips
Avoid Crowds: Peak seasons are July–August and Chinese holidays. Visit weekdays or early mornings.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures.
Essentials: Wear waterproof shoes for hiking trails; bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
Photography: Golden hours (dawn/dusk) enhance the bridge and waterfall shots.
Prohibited Items: Drones, smoking, and littering.
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews