Travel Guide to Xiaoqikong and Daqikong Scenic Areas in Guizhou

Xiaoqikong and Daqikong Scenic Areas are located in the Zhangjiang Scenic Area of Libo County, Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou Province. They are rated as a national 5A-level scenic spot and are known as the 'Green Gem on the Earth's Belt.' Xiaoqikong is famous for its exquisite karst landscapes, featuring waterfalls, lakes, forests, and caves. Daqikong is renowned for its majestic landscapes, including primitive canyons, natural bridges, and underground rivers, and is known as the 'Oriental Arc de Triomphe.' It is recommended to spend 1-2 days exploring both areas, with Xiaoqikong taking about 5-6 hours and Daqikong about 1-2 hours. Tickets and Opening Hours Tickets: Xiaoqikong peak season (March-November) tickets are 120 RMB per person, off-season 100 RMB per person, and sightseeing bus tickets are 40 RMB per person. Daqikong tickets are 30 RMB per person (some discounts are included in the combined ticket). Free ticket policy: Visitors born in the Year of the Dragon (with ID), students, teachers, and medical staff can enjoy free tickets (verification required offline). Opening hours: Peak season 7:00-17:00, off-season 8:00-16:30, reservation required for entry. Transportation Guide High-speed rail: The Guinan High-speed Railway is open, and it takes about 1 hour from Guiyang to Libo. After exiting the station, you can take a taxi (15 minutes) or the direct bus to the scenic area. Self-driving/charter: It takes about 3.5 hours from Guiyang to Libo. It is recommended to charter a car within the scenic area (about 500 RMB/day), with stops along the Zhangjiang Scenic Belt for photos. Scenic area transportation: Sightseeing buses cover the main attractions and are valid for two days. It is recommended to enter and exit through the East Gate (near the ancient bridge) or the West Gate (near Wolongtan). Core Attractions and Recommended Routes Must-visit in Xiaoqikong Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge: A Qing Dynasty stone bridge covered with moss, with picturesque reflections. Best photographed in the early morning when there are fewer people. 68-level Waterfall: A dense distribution of 68 waterfalls within 1.6 kilometers. It is recommended to walk along the plank road upstream to enjoy the view. Wolongtan: The water is as blue as a mirror. You can row a boat (30 RMB per person) or take silhouette photos. Water Forest: Hike through streams and stone forests, a cool place to escape the heat. Highlights of Daqikong Natural Bridge: A 60-meter-high natural stone arch bridge with hanging stalactites below, creating a light and shadow effect like the 'Underground Arc de Triomphe.' Terrifying Gorge: Legend has it that noise is forbidden here. The plank road is steep, allowing you to experience the depth and mystery of the canyon. One-day tour route: East Gate → Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge → 68-level Waterfall → Water Forest → Cuigu Waterfall → Wolongtan → Daqikong Natural Bridge (round trip by boat). Practical Tips Avoid the crowds: Enter the park before 7 am, choose the east-to-west route or the reverse route to avoid peak travel groups. Equipment recommendations: Wear non-slip shoes, lightweight clothing, and bring sunscreen and drinking water. There are no supply points at the bottom of the valley. Safety tips: The plank road in Daqikong is narrow, beware of falling rocks; the 'One Line Sky' section in Xiaoqikong requires caution. Photography tips: The best light for Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge is at sunrise, and for Wolongtan in the afternoon; the Natural Bridge in Daqikong is suitable for wide-angle shots. Accommodation and Food Recommendations Accommodation: Inns near the East Gate offer good value (such as the Pingshan Lake Grassland Star Camp); the West Gate has more complete facilities, suitable for tourists seeking convenience. Food: Try Libo's pickled sour meat, fish stuffed with chives, and wild bayberry soup. The Zhangjiang River fish in the Buyi Ethnic Style Town is recommended. Xiaoqikong and Daqikong combine natural wonders and cultural charm. It is recommended to plan a 3-4 day deep tour of Qiannan, including nearby Yaoshan Ancient Village or Maolan Nature Reserve!