Xiaoqikong Scenic Area Guizhou: Complete Visitor Guide (2025)

Xiaoqikong Scenic Area (小七孔景区) is one of Guizhou's most scenic natural parks. It is famous for turquoise water, forested trails, and a classic stone bridge built in the Qing Dynasty. The name means "Small Seven Holes," referring to the seven arches of the bridge that anchors the main area.

If you are looking for waterfalls, pools, and lush greenery, Xiaoqikong is one of the best day trips in Guizhou. This guide covers what to see, how to get there, and how to plan your route.

Quick Facts

Info	Details
Location	Libo County, Guizhou
Chinese name	小七孔景区 (Xiaoqikong)
Time needed	4-6 hours
Ticket price	¥110 (~$15) + shuttle
Best time	May-October
Main highlights	Seven Holes Bridge, Wolong Pool, Water Forest

What Is Xiaoqikong (小七孔)

Xiaoqikong is part of the Libo Karst area, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The park covers a long valley of waterfalls, clear streams, and karst landscapes. Unlike many Chinese scenic sites, the atmosphere here is more like a forest park than a single landmark.

The area is split into two main sections: Xiaoqikong and Daqikong. Xiaoqikong is more famous, more developed, and easier to explore in one day.

Why Xiaoqikong Feels Unique

Xiaoqikong is not one single viewpoint. It is a long, green corridor where water runs everywhere. The scenery feels layered: rivers, pools, small bridges, dense trees, and mist from waterfalls. The water color is a standout. On sunny days it turns a bright turquoise that is rare in southern China.

The park is also a good example of karst ecology. The limestone landscape creates natural basins and channels that shape how the water flows. That is why you see so many small cascades instead of one massive waterfall. It is a landscape built around movement, not just one big cliff.

Why the Water Looks Turquoise

The water color comes from mineral content and the limestone base. In clear weather, light reflects off the pale rock and makes the pools look bright blue or green. After heavy rain, the water turns less clear and the colors fade. That is why sunny days after light rain are the most photogenic.

Plants and Wildlife

Xiaoqikong sits in a humid, subtropical zone. The forest canopy keeps the air cool and damp, which is why moss and ferns are everywhere. You might see small birds, butterflies, and dragonflies near the water. Wildlife is not the main draw, but the lush plant life makes the whole park feel fresh even in summer.

Do not expect big animals. This is a managed scenic area rather than a remote reserve, but the plant diversity is still impressive.

Key Attractions

Seven Holes Bridge (小七孔桥)

The stone bridge is the symbol of the park. It was built in 1835 during the Qing Dynasty and has seven small arches. The bridge is surrounded by shallow turquoise water and is one of the most photographed spots in Guizhou.

The bridge was originally part of a postal route that connected local villages. It is small compared to famous bridges in eastern China, but its setting makes it stand out. The arches create reflections in the water, and the stonework is still visible despite years of heavy rainfall. If you visit early, you can hear the water flowing under the arches before the crowd builds up.

Wolong Pool (卧龙潭)

Wolong Pool is a deep, emerald pool with a short waterfall. The water color is intense, especially after rain. It is a popular stop for photos and short breaks.

Cuigu Waterfall (翠谷瀑布)

This wide waterfall flows over a stepped rock face. It is not huge, but the setting is lush and green, which makes it a favorite for photographers.

68-Level Falls (六十八级跌水瀑布)

A long series of small cascades that run down the valley. The sound of water here is constant, and the path follows the falls for a long stretch.

Water Forest (水上森林)

This is the most unique section. Trees grow directly out of the water, and the path weaves through shallow streams. It feels like walking through a flooded forest and is especially beautiful in summer.

The Water Forest changes with the season. In wet months, the water level is higher and the tree roots are partially submerged, giving a surreal look. In drier months, you can see more of the roots and rocks. Either way, it is the most distinctive part of Xiaoqikong and the section people remember most.

Walking the Valley: Segment by Segment

If you like to plan your time, break the park into segments. Distances are approximate because paths twist along the river.

Segment 1: East Gate to Seven Holes Bridge

This is the busiest stretch. The walk is short, about 10-15 minutes, and includes the most famous photo spot. Expect crowds and photo lines in peak season.

Segment 2: Seven Holes Bridge to Wolong Pool

This stretch is greener and quieter. The path follows the river, with small cascades and shaded sections. Allow 30-45 minutes if you stop for photos.

Segment 3: Wolong Pool to 68-Level Falls

The sound of water is constant here. The falls are spread out, and you can walk alongside them for a long time. The terrain is mostly flat with occasional steps.

Segment 4: 68-Level Falls to Water Forest

This section feels more remote. The Water Forest is a final highlight, and most visitors spend 30-40 minutes here. The shallow streams and tree roots make it a good place for slow, careful photos.

If you get tired, use the shuttle to skip a segment. The scenic sections are the bridge area, the falls, and the Water Forest.

Trail Routes and Timing

The park is long and linear. Most visitors enter at one end and exit at the other, using shuttle buses to skip sections. A common route is:

1. Enter at Xiaoqikong East Gate
2. Visit Seven Holes Bridge and nearby pools
3. Walk to Water Forest and the 68-Level Falls
4. Use the shuttle to reach upper sections if needed

Expect to walk several kilometers. The paths are mostly flat, but there are steps near waterfalls.

Recommended Routes (Short vs Full Day)

Route	Distance	Time	Best For
Short highlights	3-4 km	2-3 hours	Tight schedules
Main scenic walk	6-8 km	4-5 hours	Most visitors
Full valley route	10+ km	5-7 hours	Strong walkers

If you only have half a day, focus on Seven Holes Bridge, Water Forest, and the 68-Level Falls. If you have a full day, take time to stop at smaller pools and side paths.

How to Get There (From Guiyang)

Xiaoqikong is in Libo County, about 4-5 hours from Guiyang by road. Transport options:

High-Speed Train + Bus

• Take a high-speed train from Guiyang to Libo Station
• Transfer to a local bus or taxi to the scenic area
• Total time: 2.5-3.5 hours
• Cost: ¥80-150 (~$11-21) depending on train class

Long-Distance Bus

• Buses run from Guiyang to Libo
• Travel time: 4-5 hours
• Cost: ¥80-120 (~$11-17)

Private Car

• Travel time: 3-4 hours
• Cost: ¥600-900 (~$85-130) round trip

If you are traveling with two or more people, a private car can be reasonable and saves time.

From Libo Town to the Park

Libo town is about 30-40 minutes from the Xiaoqikong entrance. Local buses and taxis run frequently in peak season.

• Bus: Cheap and easy if you know the stop
• Taxi: Faster and good for early starts

If you stay overnight in Libo, ask your hotel for the best shuttle or bus stop in the morning.

Planning your China trip? Check out our currency converter for real-time exchange rates.

Tickets and Shuttle System

Xiaoqikong uses a shuttle bus system because the park is long. Your ticket includes entry, but the shuttle bus usually requires an additional fee.

Item	Price	Notes
Park ticket	¥110 (~$15)	Entry only
Shuttle bus	¥40-50 (~$6-7)	Required for long distances
Combined ticket	¥150-160 (~$21-23)	Most visitors buy this

Tickets can be purchased on-site or online. During holidays, buying online is safer.

How the Shuttle Works

The shuttle buses run along the main valley road and stop at major scenic points. You can get on and off with your ticket, but some sections are one-way, so plan your stops in order.

Tip: Ride the shuttle deeper into the park first, then walk back toward the bridge. This avoids the largest crowds and gives you more time in the quieter sections.

Facilities and Visitor Services

• Toilets: Available near major stops and shuttle hubs.
• Food: Small snack stalls and simple meals near the entrances, limited inside the forested sections.
• Rest areas: Benches and covered areas near waterfalls, but not everywhere.
• Souvenirs: Mostly standard items like keychains and local snacks.

If you want a full meal, eat in Libo town before or after your visit. Food inside the park is convenient but basic.

Budget Breakdown

Item	Typical Cost	Notes
Park ticket + shuttle	¥150-160 (~$21-23)	Most common purchase
Transport from Libo	¥20-60 (~$3-9)	Bus or taxi
Snacks and water	¥20-40 (~$3-6)	Higher inside

Total estimate: ¥190-260 (~$27-37) for a day visit from Libo. Costs are higher if you travel from Guiyang the same day.

Best Time to Visit

• May to October: Best water levels and green scenery
• July-August: Peak season, expect crowds
• November-March: Fewer visitors, but water levels are lower

The scenery is best after light rain, but heavy rain can make paths slippery.

What to Wear and Pack

Xiaoqikong is humid and the paths can be slick. Dress for light hiking:

• Shoes with grip to handle wet stone
• Light rain jacket in summer
• Hat and sunscreen for open sections
• Small towel if you get splashed near waterfalls

A light daypack with water and snacks is enough. Avoid heavy bags because you will walk for several hours.

Water Levels and Seasonal Feel

In late spring and summer, the water is higher and the falls look stronger. The Water Forest section feels lively and the pools are bright. In autumn, the water is clearer and calmer, which makes reflections easier to photograph. Winter is quiet and still beautiful, but some water areas look less dramatic.

If you care most about the color of the pools, visit on a clear day after a light rain. Avoid visiting right after heavy storms because the water can turn muddy.

Crowd Strategy

Xiaoqikong gets busy on weekends and holidays. The Seven Holes Bridge area is the most crowded because it is close to the entrance. To avoid the worst crowds:

• Arrive at opening time
• Walk past the bridge quickly and return later
• Use the shuttle to reach quieter sections first

If you visit on a weekday, the crowds are manageable and the paths feel much more relaxed.

Xiaoqikong vs. Daqikong

Feature	Xiaoqikong	Daqikong
Scenery	Waterfalls, pools, forest	Caves and canyon
Effort	Easy to moderate	More hiking
Time needed	Half to full day	Half day
Crowds	Higher	Lower

If you only have one day, choose Xiaoqikong. Daqikong is quieter and better for hikers.

Photography Tips

• Visit early. Morning light is soft and crowds are smaller.
• Use a polarizer if you have one to bring out water colors.
• Watch your footing near wet rocks.
• Wide-angle shots work best for the Water Forest.

If you are shooting on a phone, tap to expose for the highlights in the water so the turquoise color stays visible. Early morning light is softer, while late afternoon light gives more contrast on the water surface.

Best Photo Spots

• Seven Holes Bridge at low angle: Stand near the water to capture the arches and reflections.
• Wolong Pool from above: The emerald color shows best from the upper path.
• Water Forest path: Use a wide lens to show the trees rising out of the water.
• 68-Level Falls: Shoot along the cascade to emphasize the long flow.

If you visit in summer, the Water Forest looks more vivid. In winter, the bridge area is easier to photograph because the light is cleaner.

Where to Stay (Libo)

Libo town is the best base. It has guesthouses, small hotels, and restaurants. Staying in Libo lets you enter the park early and avoid long day-trip travel from Guiyang.

Most accommodation is simple but clean. If you want to be closer to the entrance, ask for a hotel near the East Gate shuttle stop. Libo also has a small night market where you can try local snacks after your visit.

Local dishes to look for include sour fish soup (酸汤鱼) and simple noodle bowls. The food is casual, but it is a nice way to end a day in the park.

Day Trip vs Overnight

If you travel from Guiyang and return the same day, expect a long day with early starts and late returns. It is doable, but you will spend more time on transport than on the trails.

Staying one night in Libo makes the visit calmer. You can enter the park early, avoid the biggest crowds, and leave at your own pace. If you have two days in Guizhou, an overnight stay in Libo is the best way to experience Xiaoqikong fully.

Practical Tips

• Bring water and snacks. Food options inside are limited.
• Wear shoes with grip. Paths can be wet and slippery.
• Use the shuttle smartly. Walk the scenic sections and bus the dull ones.
• Plan for crowds on summer weekends.
• Carry rain gear in summer.

Safety and Park Etiquette

Xiaoqikong is generally safe, but the water and rocks can be slippery. Stay on marked paths and avoid climbing onto wet stones for photos. The park is a protected landscape, so do not leave trash or pick plants. If you travel with kids, keep them close near the water edges.

The park staff are strict about staying on trails, especially near the Water Forest. Treat it like a nature reserve, not a playground. The water may look inviting, but it is not meant for swimming.

Accessibility and Family Notes

The main paths are paved and relatively easy, but there are stairs near waterfalls and bridges. It is not fully wheelchair-friendly.

• Strollers: Light strollers work on flat sections but are hard on stairs.
• Kids: The water edges can be slippery. Hold hands near pools.
• Older travelers: Take breaks at benches and avoid rushing the full route.

If your group has mobility issues, consider the short highlights route and use the shuttle more often.

Sample Day Itinerary

08:30 - Arrive at Xiaoqikong East Gate

09:00 - Seven Holes Bridge and nearby pools

10:00 - Walk to 68-Level Falls

11:30 - Water Forest section

12:30 - Lunch break near shuttle hub

13:30 - Shuttle to upper section and explore Wolong Pool

15:30 - Return to entrance

This schedule gives you a full view of the main highlights without rushing.

If You Are Short on Time

If you only have 2-3 hours, skip the long middle walk and focus on the bridge area plus the Water Forest. Take the shuttle between them. You will still see the signature scenery and avoid the longest stretches of path.

Is Xiaoqikong Worth It?

Yes, if you enjoy water scenery and forest walks. The park is one of Guizhou's most photogenic spots and feels less commercial than some famous parks in eastern China. If you prefer dramatic mountains or cliffs, you might find it gentle, but the water color and peaceful trails are the main draw.

If you are traveling with limited time in Guizhou, Xiaoqikong is a good pick because it combines multiple types of scenery in one place: bridge, falls, forest, and pools. If you only want one nature site in the province, this is a safe choice.

Nearby Attractions

If you stay in Libo for a night, consider these nearby stops:

• Daqikong Scenic Area: A quieter canyon-style section with caves.
• Libo town night market: Simple local food and street snacks.
• Maolan National Nature Reserve: A more remote forest reserve for serious hikers.

Mini Chinese Cheat Sheet

Useful phrases for taxis or tickets:

• Xiaoqikong Scenic Area: 小七孔景区
• Seven Holes Bridge: 小七孔桥
• Shuttle bus: 景区观光车
• Ticket: 门票 (menpiao)

Most drivers in Libo know the main entrance, but showing the characters helps.

Common Questions

Can I swim in the pools?

No. Swimming is not allowed in most areas, and the water can be cold and fast-moving.

Is the shuttle mandatory?

If you plan to walk long sections, you can skip parts of the shuttle, but for most visitors the shuttle makes the day easier.

Do I need a guide?

Not required. The paths are well marked and the main highlights are easy to find.

Is it safe in rainy season?

Yes, but the paths are slippery. Wear good shoes and avoid rushing.

Related Resources

Related Resources

Planning more of Guizhou and nearby regions?

• China Train Tickets for Foreigners - How to book rail travel
• Photography in China - Tips for landscapes and travel shots
• China Survival Kit - Essential tools and travel prep

Final Thoughts

Xiaoqikong is one of Guizhou's most photogenic landscapes. The combination of clear water, forest, and waterfalls makes it an easy favorite. If you enjoy nature and want a full day of scenic walking, this park delivers. It is also a good contrast to Guizhou's cities and ancient towns. Plan for a full day, wear good shoes, and take your time at the Water Forest. If you stay overnight in Libo, you can reach the bridge before the main tour groups arrive. The quiet morning light is the best way to see the water color. It is a place you can walk slowly without getting bored. The water sound stays with you long after the visit. You will likely want to return in another season. It is worth the trip. Absolutely. Plan ahead and enjoy.

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Last updated: December 2025