Nestled in the southwestern part of Guizhou Province, the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area in Libo is a nature lover’s paradise. This area is a harmonious blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offering an unforgettable experience for travelers from around the world.
A Glimpse into the Scenic Area
The Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, covering approximately 46.4 square kilometers, is a national – level nature reserve. It lies in the southern fringe of the Guizhou Plateau, where the unique geographical location has given birth to a diverse range of landscapes. The area is divided into four major types of geoscience landscapes: karst, geomorphic, water – body, and biological. Among them, the karst landscapes are further classified into surface and underground karst features. The Tianzhong Cave represents the underground karst caves, while the Feiyun Cave is a typical karst cave.
The area has a subtropical monsoon humid climate, with distinct seasons and abundant rainfall. It combines various natural elements such as water, caves, forests, waterfalls, lakes, and rocks. The forest coverage rate in the scenic area exceeds 92%, and the air contains 180,000 negative oxygen ions per cubic centimeter, making it a perfect place for “lung – cleansing and health – preserving”. The plant landscape mainly consists of natural ecological forests, with a small number of artificial plant arrangements.
The Alluring Attractions
The Iconic Xiaoqikong Bridge
The Xiaoqikong Bridge, built in the 15th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1835 AD), is the symbol of the scenic area. It once served as an important transportation route for business travelers between Guizhou and Guangxi, spanning the Xiangshui River. The bridge is 40 meters long, 2.2 meters wide, and 5.5 meters high, with an arched structure that is both delicate and exquisitely crafted. Under the bridge, the blue – green water of the pool and the green ancient trees on both banks set off the elegant and peaceful beauty of the bridge.
The Spectacular Waterfalls
The area is home to several magnificent waterfalls. The La Ya Waterfall, with a drop of 30 meters and a width of over 20 meters, gushes down from the mountain cave spring at the upper reaches of the Xiangshui River, along the steep cliff. The name “La Ya” in the Buyi language means “beautiful goddess”. The 68 – level Cascade Waterfall, located in the Xiangshui River Valley, is about 1.6 kilometers long, with a total drop of about 110 meters and a width of about 40 meters. In less than 2 kilometers of the winding river course, there are 68 waterfalls and cascades in various postures, which is really a rare sight. The sound of the water is so loud that it gives the Xiangshui River its name.
The Mysterious Caves and Lakes
The Water Curtain Cave, located behind one of the waterfalls, allows visitors to feel the cool mist of the waterfall and view the cascading water from a unique perspective. The Tianzhong Cave, an underground karst cave, is filled with various stalactites and stalagmites, creating a mysterious and magical world. The Yuan Yang Lake, a typical karst blind – valley lake, has a water area of about 20 hectares and a depth of about 40 meters. Composed mainly of two large lakes, the upper and the lower, it is an ideal place for boating.
The Lush Vegetation
The dense forests in the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area are home to a wide variety of plant species. The trees, with their lush foliage, provide a cool and shaded environment. The natural ecological forests are not only a haven for many rare plants but also play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. The greenery also serves as a beautiful backdrop for the various water features, enhancing the overall charm of the scenic area.
The Development and Honors
In 1994, the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area was approved as a national – level scenic spot by the State Council. It became the sixth World Natural Heritage site in China and the first in Guizhou in 2007. In 2015, it was rated as a national AAAAA – level tourist scenic area. In 2021, it was honored as an advanced collective in the national culture and tourism system, a national youth civilized unit, and a national – level civilized tourism demonstration unit. In August 2024, the average daily number of tourists in the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area exceeded 60,000, indicating its growing popularity among tourists.
Tips for Visiting
If you plan to visit the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, here are some tips. First, it is advisable to plan your visit during the dry season (November – April) to avoid the peak tourist flow and enjoy a more comfortable travel experience. Second, wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking. Third, bring rain gear as the area is often misty due to the waterfalls. Fourth, consider hiring a local guide who can help you understand the cultural and natural significance of the area better.
In conclusion, the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area in Libo, Guizhou, is a place that combines the beauty of nature with cultural depth. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, this area is sure to leave an indelible impression on you. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this amazing destination!
