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Libo Ancient Town was restored and rebuilt on the site of the former Libo Stone City. It combines the cultural characteristics of the four local ethnic minorities in Libo: Buyi, Shui, Miao, and Yao, supplemented by the architectural style of the Hui school of Ming and Qing Dynasties, the small bridges and flowing water of the Jiangnan water town, and the garden art.
Libo Ancient Town is an ethnic cultural tourism complex project that integrates Chinese classical architecture, garden art, and the inheritance, protection and exhibition of Guizhou Libo’s ethnic culture. It combines tourism, sports, business, leisure and entertainment, commerce and supporting residential areas, and covers the six major elements of food, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping and entertainment.
The tour is divided into four villages, one street, one park, one station and two tour routes: water and land. The four villages are: " Shui Tribe " , " Buyi Water Village " , " Yao Tribe " and " Miao Village " . These four ethnic groups are the largest ethnic tribes in Libo County and are also the representatives of Libo County's ethnic culture.
Libo has a mild climate with four distinct seasons, with mild winters and mild summers, and the best time to visit is from April to August . The main attraction is the water, especially in the water forests, which are larger and higher, making them ideal for rafting.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Libo Ancient Town is a historical town located in Guizhou province, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and rich ethnic culture. The town is significant for its ethnic diversity, particularly the Miao and Dong communities, who have lived here for centuries, preserving their unique customs and lifestyles. The town is part of the Libo National Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its karst landscapes.
Libo Ancient Town is located in Libo County, Guizhou Province. It is accessible by bus or taxi from Libo County center. Visitors can also drive or take guided tours from nearby cities like Guiyang, the provincial capital, which is approximately 230 km away. There is no metro system in this area, so buses and taxis are the most common modes of transportation.
The town itself is open year-round, and visitors can explore it at any time during daylight hours. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March-May, September-November) when the weather is pleasant, and the town’s landscapes are at their most beautiful. Avoid visiting during peak summer holidays to avoid the crowds.
The entrance fee for Libo Ancient Town is typically free to explore. However, some attractions within the town, like temples and specific cultural sites, may have a small entrance fee (around 20-50 RMB). Tickets for these sites can be purchased on-site or in advance through local tour operators.
For general exploration, tickets are not required in advance. However, for special guided tours or visits to specific attractions, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). Booking a few days in advance is usually sufficient.
A visit to Libo Ancient Town typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on your interest in exploring the historical sites, cultural aspects, and surrounding natural beauty. If you plan to visit nearby attractions such as Libo Karst Scenic Area or Daqikong and Xiaoqikong, you may need an additional day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and, occasionally, English. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are offered at some of the major attractions in the town.
Start by exploring the central market and main streets, then visit the temples and local artisan workshops. Afterward, take a stroll along the riverbanks for a peaceful experience, and if time allows, hike to the nearby karst formations for scenic views. Be sure to try the local food along the way.
Libo Ancient Town does not typically offer night tours or light shows. However, the town is charming in the evenings, with local cafes and restaurants providing a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional evening meals or a quiet walk under the stars.
The town can become crowded during public holidays, especially during the summer months and the Chinese New Year period. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably in the morning or during the off-peak seasons such as winter or early spring.
Libo Ancient Town has public toilets available throughout the town. There are numerous local restaurants serving traditional Guizhou cuisine, along with small shops selling snacks and drinks. Rest areas are available along the riverside and in some public squares.
While most of the town is accessible, the ancient streets and stone paths can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main roads are fairly accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
Cash is accepted, but many places, including shops and restaurants, also accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit cards are not as commonly accepted, especially in smaller shops.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in local restaurants that serve rice and vegetable-based dishes. Halal food may be harder to find in this rural area, but larger towns nearby may offer halal options.
There are several souvenir shops in the town offering traditional handicrafts, textiles, and ethnic jewelry. Local products like handwoven bags, wooden carvings, and embroidered garments are popular souvenirs.
