Guiyang Summer Highlights: Libo Xiaoqikong + Lusheng Festival

Why is Guiyang a summer travel destination? With an average summer temperature of just 23°C and a forest coverage rate of 55%, Guiyang truly lives up to its title as "China's Summer Resort Capital." The city boasts spectacular karst landscapes perfect for sightseeing and a rich atmosphere of minority cultures. In-depth exploration: A blend of nature and culture Natural attractions: Libo Xiaoqikong Libo Xiaoqikong, also known as the "Green Gem on Earth's Belt." Wolong Pond: A karst pond with sapphire-blue water surrounded by pristine forests. Waterfalls cascade down curved cliffs, creating a dreamy "pond-waterfall symbiosis" spectacle. The best photo spot is the wooden walkway by the pond, where sunlight in the morning makes the water appear Tiffany blue. In summer, you can enjoy bamboo rafting. Cuigu Waterfall: A 60-meter-high waterfall plunges from a lush green cliff into a shallow pool where visitors can play in the water. Wear water shoes to traverse the wetlands. During July and August, the waterfall is at its fullest, resembling a jade-green silk ribbon. Rare tree ferns can be spotted along the way. Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge: Built during the 15th year of the Daoguang reign in the Qing Dynasty, this seven-arch bridge exudes a sense of timeless beauty with vines draped over it. The best time for photos is early morning when mist surrounds the bridge. Beneath the bridge lies Hanbi Pond, where you can witness the "fish shadow bridge arch" phenomenon. A secret photo spot is 50 meters downstream near the stone piers, where you can capture the bridge, water, and sky in one frame. Recommended itinerary: Start at Wolong Pond (upstream) → Cuigu Waterfall → Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge (downstream). The entire route is downhill, so purchasing a sightseeing bus ticket (💰40) is recommended to save energy. Tips: ✔️ Enter from the east gate and exit from the west gate for a downhill route. ✔️ Wear non-slip sandals and bring a change of clothes (you’ll get wet playing in the water). Cultural experience: Exclusive Lusheng Festival activities (mid-July every year) Location: Main venue in Kaili City and surrounding Miao villages, lasting 3-5 days. Core experiences: Mass Lusheng Dance: Young women dressed in gorgeous traditional attire with jingling silver ornaments, while men from various villages compete in dance performances accompanied by the sound of lusheng flutes. The scene is incredibly vibrant. Long Table Banquet: Enjoy dishes like sour fish soup, cured meat, and glutinous rice, paired with a unique "mountain stream" style of toasting, showcasing the customs and hospitality of minority groups. Traditional Wax Dyeing: Create your own Miao-patterned scarf in a Miao village, leaving with a special travel memory. Tips: ✔️ Book accommodations in advance! Lodging in Miao villages is scarce during the festival. ✔️ For photography, bring a telephoto lens to capture the intricate details of silver ornaments. ✔️ Respect customs: Do not touch headpieces or point directly at performers.