Libo Zhangjiang Autumn Healing Plan! A Secret Mountain and Water Tour Guide to Avoid the Crowds

Autumn in Libo Zhangjiang is the ultimate romance of karst landscapes and colorful folk customs! When the summer crowds leave, the waterfalls here still rush wildly, but the water is even greener and clearer than in summer. The mountains are dotted with golden and crimson autumn leaves, as if nature has spilled its palette. This guide will take you on a 3-day deep experience of Zhangjiang’s emerald pools, primeval forests, and Buyi culture, unlocking a tranquil and splendid autumn secret spot.
🌿Trip Highlights
A Feast of Mountain and Water Colors: Stable water levels in autumn, the emerald water under the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, the 68-step waterfall layered distinctly against red leaves; the Daqikong Natural Bridge looks even more majestic in autumn light.
Immersive Folk Culture: Visit the Yaoshan Ancient Village, participate in the Copper Drum Dance and Top Spinning performances of the Baiku Yao; experience handmade paper making and plant dyeing at a Buyi ethnic guesthouse.
Exclusive Autumn Experiences: Participate in rice harvesting and threshing activities in October-November; watch the light show at Zhangjiang Scenic Belt at night and feel the poetic “boat sailing in a painting.”
📅3-Day Itinerary Plan
Day 1: Xiaoqikong Highlights
Arrive at Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge before 8 AM to avoid tour groups and capture the bridge’s reflection in the morning mist. Hike 1.6 km to see the 68-step waterfall; water volume is moderate in autumn, perfect for barefoot wading.
Rest at Cuigu Waterfall rest area for bamboo tube rice and sour soup fish; in the afternoon, explore the water forest and marvel at tree roots winding over the travertine terraces.
Overnight at Yaoshan Ancient Village, join the bonfire party, and learn the Monkey Drum Dance.
Day 2: Daqikong Adventure + Zhangjiang Stroll
Take a bamboo raft tour of the Daqikong Gorge in the morning; the best photos are taken in the afternoon when sunlight penetrates the Natural Bridge arch. In the afternoon, cycle along the Zhangjiang Scenic Belt, picking honey pomelos and blood peaches (ripe in autumn) along the way.
In the evening, experience the “Night Tour of Zhangjiang” to see the karst peaks illuminated by lights.
Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration
Charter a car to Yaohua Ancient Village (40-minute drive), hike the Red Maple Forest Gorge, picnic under Yaohua Waterfall; before returning, visit Libo Ancient Town to buy handmade batik cloth souvenirs.
🍜Autumn Food Map
Must-try “Zhangjiang Three Treasures”: Tofu Pudding Grilled Fish (Old Ma Restaurant in the county town), Shrimp Sour Beef (Jiusuantang), Yaoshan Bamboo Tube Chicken (Ancient Village Farmhouse).
Snack recommendations: freshly grilled Zhangjiang small fish, blood tofu, glutinous rice balls, starting at 5 yuan at Dongmen Night Market.
💡Helpful Tips
Tickets: Xiaoqikong + Daqikong combo ticket 160 yuan (valid for 2 days), sightseeing bus ticket 40 yuan is a must; Yaoshan Ancient Village charges an additional 80 yuan.
Clothing: Waterproof and non-slip shoes (waterfall area is wet), light jacket (temperature varies inside caves); bring mosquito repellent.