Libo County Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Libo County with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, and logistics.


Introduction to Libo County

Nestled in the heart of Guizhou, Libo County is a picturesque destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The county boasts a rich history, charming villages, scenic natural wonders, and a vibrant food and drink scene. From hiking through stunning karst landscapes to exploring ancient temples, there is something for everyone in Libo County.

List of Places to Visit in Libo County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For history buffs and culture enthusiasts, Libo County has a wealth of museums, temples, and ancient villages. The following are a few must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Yuping Dong Village: This ancient village boasts over 1500 years of history and is renowned for its exquisite Dong-style architecture, including beautiful wooden houses and intricate bridges.
  • Hongfu Temple: This historic temple dates back to the Tang dynasty and is home to magnificent sculptures, ancient inscriptions, and beautiful frescoes.
  • Libo Museum: Located in the heart of the county, this museum showcases the rich history and culture of Libo, including artifacts dating back to the Han dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Libo County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Libo County offers a stunning array of natural wonders, including cascading waterfalls, emerald green lakes, and karst landscapes. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions:

  • Daqikong Scenic Area: This UNESCO World Heritage site features a unique karst landscape, including towering rock formations, hidden caves, and crystal-clear streams.
  • Zhijin Cave: The largest karst cave in China, Zhijin Cave is a natural wonder of underground rivers, waterfalls, and underground lakes.
  • Seven Small Arches: This picturesque natural wonder features seven arches carved into the rock by a meandering river, creating a stunning landscape of waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Libo County

For outdoor enthusiasts, Libo County is a paradise for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Daqikong Scenic Area Hiking Trail: This stunning hiking trail takes visitors through the heart of the Daqikong Scenic Area, passing by hidden caves, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking karst formations.
  • Zhijin Cave to Wanfenglin Biking Route: This scenic biking route takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Libo County, including mountainous terrain and winding rivers.

Best Things to Do in Libo County: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural wonders and cultural attractions, Libo County offers a host of fun-filled activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Libo County:

  • Boat Tour of the Seven Small Arches: Visitors can take a leisurely boat tour along the river, passing through the seven small arches and enjoying the stunning scenery.
  • Cultural Performance in Yuping Dong Village: Visitors can experience the vibrant local culture by attending a traditional Dong-style performance in Yuping Dong Village.
  • Horseback Riding in Hongfu Temple: Visitors can explore the stunning landscape around Hongfu Temple on horseback, enjoying the breathtaking views and fresh air.

Week-Long Itinerary for Libo County

For visitors looking to make the most of their time in Libo County, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a local hotel or guesthouse.

Day 2: Visit Yuping Dong Village and explore the ancient wooden homes, bridges, and temples. In the evening, attend a traditional Dong-style performance.

Day 3: Hike through Daqikong Scenic Area and explore the stunning karst landscape.

Day 4: Visit Hongfu Temple and explore the historic sculptures, inscriptions, and frescoes.

Day 5: Take a boat tour of the Seven Small Arches and enjoy the stunning waterfalls and natural scenery.

Day 6: Explore Zhijin Cave, the largest karst cave in China, and marvel at the underground rivers, waterfalls, and lakes.

Day 7: Departure and transportation to the next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Libo County

No trip to China is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Libo County is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sour Soup Fish: This popular dish features fresh fish cooked in a sour and savory broth with vegetables and herbs.
  • Mi Xian Noodles: Made from finely ground rice flour, these noodles are served in a flavorful broth with meat and vegetables.
  • Smoked Tofu: This local specialty features soft and velvety tofu smoked with pine leaves for a unique and delicious flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Rice Wine: This local specialty is brewed with locally sourced rice and has a sweet and mellow flavor.
  • Maotai: This famous Chinese spirit is made from fermented sorghum and is known for its strong and distinctive flavor.

Where to Stay in Libo County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Libo County offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, visitors can find the perfect place to rest and relax after a day of adventures. Some of the top-rated accommodations in Libo County include:

  • Sofitel Guiyang Hunter: This luxurious hotel features elegant rooms with stunning views, a swimming pool, fitness center, and nearby attractions.

  • Yunding Hotel Libo: This boutique hotel offers a tranquil retreat with lovely gardens, comfortable rooms, and an on-site restaurant.

  • Libo Qianshui Bay Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse boasts a prime location near the Seven Small Arches and offers comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.

What to Buy in Libo County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, Libo County offers a wide range of options. Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products:

  • Dong Embroidery: This traditional embroidery style features intricate patterns and designs and is a beautiful and unique souvenir.

  • Libo Tea: This local specialty is made from high-quality tea leaves grown in the mountains around Libo, and has a subtle and refreshing flavor.

  • Handmade Wooden Crafts: Visitors can find beautiful wooden crafts and carvings in the local markets and shops, including boxes, frames, and figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of Libo County

Libo County boasts a rich and vibrant culture, steeped in ancient traditions and customs. Visitors can experience the local culture through traditional performances, festivals, and visits to the ancient villages. Here are a few customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Libo County:

  • Dong-style Architecture: The wooden houses, bridges, and temples in the ancient villages are a unique and beautiful representation of traditional Dong-style architecture.

  • Choir Singing: The local Dong choir singing is a unique and captivating style of music, characterized by its rich harmonies and unique vocal techniques.

  • Festivals: Libo County is known for its colorful and lively festivals, including the Dragon Boat Festival, the Lantern Festival, and the Dong New Year.

Best Time to Visit Libo County

The best time to visit Libo County is between March and November, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful. Visitors can enjoy the waterfalls, lakes, and karst formations in full bloom during the spring and summer, and the stunning autumn foliage in the fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Libo County

When visiting Libo County, it is important to keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Do respect the local customs and traditions, including dress codes and behavior in the temples and cultural attractions.
  • Do bring appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities and hiking.
  • Do sample the local cuisine and beverages, including the famous sour soup fish and rice wine.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural scenery and cultural landmarks.
  • Don’t take photos without permission, especially of the local people or ceremonies.
  • Don’t violate local laws or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Libo County

Libo County is a safe and friendly destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and welcoming locals. Visitors should take normal safety precautions, such as securing valuables, avoiding unfamiliar or unlit areas at night, and staying aware of surroundings.

Health in Libo County

The tap water in Libo County is not safe to drink, so visitors should stick to bottled water or bring a water purification system. Medical facilities in the county are limited, so it is recommended to bring any necessary medications or medical supplies.

Getting to Libo County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Libo County is accessible by air, train, and bus. The nearest airport is Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, which offers daily flights to major cities in China. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Libo County. For those traveling by train or bus, there are several stations in Guiyang, with regular services to Libo County.

Airports Near Libo County

  • Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport

Bus Stations Near Libo County

  • Guiyang Bus Station
  • Guiyang North Bus Station

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars are available for hire from Guiyang or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Libo County

The best way to get around Libo County is by taxi or private car. Taxis are readily available in the major towns and cities, and private cars can be hired from local companies or through tour operators. For those looking for a more adventurous way to explore the natural wonders, there are also bike rentals and horseback riding tours available.

Where to Go Next from Libo County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For those looking to explore more of Guizhou or Southwest China, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring. Here are some of the top options:

  • Guiyang: The capital of Guizhou, Guiyang is a vibrant city known for its delicious cuisine, colorful markets, and ancient temples.
  • Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: This stunning park is known for its dramatic cliffs, deep ravines, and forested valleys, and is a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
  • Chishui Scenic Area: This natural wonder features a stunning gorge, waterfalls, and lush vegetation, and is a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and exploration.

Conclusion

Libo County is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and adventurous activities. From hiking through stunning karst landscapes to exploring ancient temples and enjoying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of Guizhou. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of Libo County.