Seven Small Arches Scenic Area (Xiaoqikong) - Emerald of the Earth's Belt

As part of the South China Karst (including the Stone Forest Karst in Yunnan, the Libo Karst in Guizhou, and the Wulong Karst in Chongqing), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Seven Small Arches showcases extraordinary karst formations, including caves, limestone peaks, and underground rivers. The area is also a haven for biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna thriving in its pristine environment.

A Perfect Summer Retreat

Seven Small Arches is renowned as an ideal summer escape due to its cool and pleasant climate, with the average summer temperature of 22°C. Nestled in a lush valley with abundant water features, the area offers a refreshing respite from the summer heat. The shade of dense forests, the mist from cascading waterfalls, and the cool breeze over serene lakes make it a perfect destination to beat the heat and relax in nature’s embrace.

This exquisite stone bridge spans 40 meters in length, 2.2 meters in width, and 5.5 meters in height. Its graceful arched design showcases the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architecture. Its delicate structure and precise construction have stood the test of time, making it a remarkable historical and cultural landmark. Beneath the bridge flows the enchanting Xiangshui River (Singing Water River), whose calm, mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding lush greenery, resembling a piece of emerald jade in the forest. The harmonious blend of the ancient bridge and the serene river creates a picturesque scene, as if from a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

68-tiered Cascading Waterfalls (68级跌水瀑布)

The 68-tiered Cascading Waterfalls are located in the Xiangshui River Valley. Stretching across a 1.6-kilometer-long riverbed, the waterfalls cascade down a 120-meter drop, with elevations ranging from 380 to 500 meters. While the name suggests exactly 68 tiers, the number is not literal but symbolic, representing both the abundance of waterfalls and the auspicious meanings of the numbers 6 and 8 in the local Buyi culture, where they symbolize good fortune and prosperity. The waterfalls are a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle. Water flows gracefully down the tiers, sometimes rushing, or drifting, and even crashing down. Each tier has its own unique form and character, creating a mesmerizing display of nature’s artistry.

Broken Bridge Waterfall (断桥飞瀑)

The mountain spring water cascades down the hillside, and local inhabitants have ingeniously constructed a "broken bridge" utilizing a tree hollow. When the water flow is abundant, the waterfall resembles a shower of scattered pearls; during times of lesser volume, it appears as a white ribbon suspended in the sky, presenting a spectacular and breathtaking vista.

Mandarin Duck Lake (鸳鸯湖)

Mandarin Duck Lake is a group of natural karst lakes, covering a total area of approximately 20 hectares. This enchanting water network consists of two large lakes and four smaller lakes, interconnected to form a mesmerizing labyrinth of water. With a maximum depth of 40 meters, the lakes are surrounded by rugged, jagged shores and dense vegetation.

One of the most remarkable features of Mandarin Duck Lake is the dense growth of Bischofia polycarpa that thrive in the water year-round. This unique aquatic forest has earned the lake the nickname "Oriental Amazon", evoking the lush and mysterious beauty of tropical rainforests.

Recommended Thing to do: Mandarin Duck Lake is an ideal spot for boating. The boating fee is 30 RMB per person, with a minimum of two and a maximum of six people per boat. You’ll paddle a simple small iron boat using oars, and the entire journey around the lake takes about 40 minutes. Glide through the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, making it a memorable and peaceful experience.

Wolong Pool (卧龙潭)

Wolong Pool, also known as Crouching Dragon Lake, is renowned for its stunning blue waters. The pool resembles a sparkling sapphire nestled amidst the lush greenery. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of the pool, allowing visitors to take in its breathtaking beauty and capture stunning photos. For a more immersive experience, visitors can walk down to the pool’s edge for up-close views.

Recommended thing to do: experience a 3.5-kilometer self-service drifting adventure, lasting about 2 hours. The drifting fee is 50 RMB per person. Known for its leisure, this activity lets you gently float downstream on an inflatable raft and be amazed at lush karst landscapes and pristine vegetation.

Cuigu Waterfall (翠谷瀑布)

Cuigu Waterfall, is famously featured as a filming location for the reality show "Survivor Games". The waterfall cascades gracefully down the mountainside, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere. The waterfall is more than 60 meters high. The combination of the rushing water and the serene forest makes it feel like stepping into a fairy-tale paradise.

Seven Small Arches Scenic Area has two main entrance for visitors: the East Gate and the West Gate. East Gate is located closer to the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, while the West Gate is situated near Mandarin Duck Lake. Each gate provides a unique way to explore the area, allowing visitors to tailor their journey based on their preferences.

For a more relaxed experience, start your tour from the West Gate and head towards the East Gate, mostly downhil. If you prefer fewer crowds and a more immersive journey, begin at the East Gate and head towards the West Gate. Whether you prefer a relaxing downhill walk or a more adventurous uphill journey, there’s an option for everyone.

Seven Small Arches Scenic Area is located in Libo County, the southern part of Guizhou Province and near the border with Guangxi Province. To visit this stunning natural attraction, travelers usually reach Libo County first.

How to Get to Libo County

The county is accessible by high-speed train via Libo Railway Station, which connects to major cities like Guiyang (1-1.5 hrs), Nanning (1~2 hrs), Chongqing (3.5~4.5 hrs), Chengdu (4.5~5 hrs), etc.

It can also be reached by flying into Qiannan Libo Airport, which primarily offers flights to destinations within Guizhou, such as Xingyi (1 hr), Tongren (1 hr), and Zunyi (1 hr). Libo Airport currently has a limited number of routes. Travelers coming from other popular cities outside Guizhou will typically need to take connecting flights, often via larger hubs like Guiyang.

How to Get to Seven Small Arches Scenic Area

After arriving in Libo Railway Station or Qiannan Libo Airport, tourists can choose to take a direct shuttle bus, taxi, or public bus to reach the East Gate or West Gate of the scenic area. Most visitors prefer heading to the East Gate, as it is closer to both the high-speed rail station (about 13 km / 8 miles) and the airport (about 38 km / 24 miles). Shuttle buses are available both in the train station and airport to the East Gate and West Gate, while the public buses only serve the Eest Gate.

The best time to visit is typically during spring and autumn, when the weather is most pleasant for exploring its stunning karst landscapes and scenic attractions. Additionally, the summer months are also optimal times, as the area serves as an ideal summer resort to escape the heat. It's worth noting that the number of tourists visiting tends to increase during the summer.

In spring (March to May), Seven Small Arches Scenic Area comes alive with vibrant greenery and blooming flowers, as the karst mountains are blanketed in fresh foliage. The mild weather is ideal for hiking, and the waterfalls are energized by the start of the rainy season.

Summer (June to August) transforms this area into a lush, emerald paradise with dense forests and full waterways. The Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, adorned with moss, stands gracefully over turquoise waters, offering a cool retreat. Frequent rains enhance the beauty of the waterfalls and rivers.

In Autumn (September to November), golden hues dominate the landscape, contrasting beautifully with the blue waters and limestone cliffs. The waterfalls and streams flow gently. Autumn is often considered the best time to visit, as the weather is cool and comfortable.

In winter (December to February), it takes on a serene and mystical beauty. While the water levels are lower, the streams and waterfalls remain clear and tranquil. The cooler temperatures make it a pleasant time for enjoying its natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons.

Distance from Seven Large Arches Scenic Area: 200 m (adjacent to Seven Small Arches Scenic Area)

Seven Large Arches Scenic Area is a stunning natural destination centered around pristine forested canyons, subterranean rivers, and hidden lakes. The plank roads wind and rise, offering thrilling views at every turn. The iconic natural bridge is one of the top karst wonders in the world, adding to the area's awe-inspiring charm.

Yaoshan Ancient Village

Distance from Seven Large Arches Scenic Area: about 6 km, 10 munites' driving

Guizhou, a province renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and vibrant ethnic minority cultures, is best explored through a well-planned 5-7 days itinerary with 2-4 key destinations.

Many travelers begin their Guizhou adventure in Guiyang, the provincial capital, where you will learn about Guizhou’s history and culture by visiting landmarks like Jiaxiu Pavilion, Qingyan Ancient Town, and more for 1-2 days.

If you’re eager to delve into Guizhou’s rich ethnic minority cultures, you can combine some must-visits in the Qiandongnan region for 3-4 days. Explore the charming towns of Kaili, Congjiang, and Rongjiang, where you’ll find traditional villages of the Miao and Dong people, which are known for their unique wooden stilt houses, vibrant festivals, and intricate handicrafts.

Recommended Guizhou Tour Packages with Seven Small Arches:

☛ 7 Days Best of Guizhou Tour with Nature & Culture Highlights
☛ 6 Days Iconic Guizhou Tour with Diverse Experience from Guiyang

If you want to explore more Guizhou’s natural landscapes, particularly its karst formations, you can spend 1-2 days heading to Anshun to witness China’s largest waterfall - Huangguoshu Waterfall, or Wanfenglin (Ten Thousand Peaks Forest) in Xingyi which offers a breathtaking panorama of towering limestone cone-peaks and lush countryside. Don’t miss Mount Fanjing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its peculiar mushroom-like rock pillars, rich biodiversity, and profound Buddhist culture.

☛ 6 Days Guizhou Natural Wonders Exploration from Guiyang
☛ 5 Days Guiyang Fanjingshan Tour with Huangguoshu Waterfall