Libo: Like Natural Mint Sparkling Water

🌿 Libo: Like Natural Mint Sparkling Water ||| The moment I stepped into Libo, the humid air, carrying the fresh scent of plants, enveloped me. Distant mountains were like painted brows, and streams were as clear as jade – this isn't an illusion created by a filter, but a real "Emerald on Earth." During my trip, I sometimes walked barefoot into the cool streams, and sometimes got lost in the sound of bronze drums in the Yao village, completely falling for the gentle charm of Qiannan's landscapes.

📅 Itinerary Highlights:
Day 1:
Arrived at Libo Station by high-speed rail, then took a public bus (5 RMB/person) directly to the East Gate of Xiaoqikong.
In the evening, lightly explored Daqikong Natural Bridge 🌉. Took a bamboo raft upstream (20 RMB/one way), and the spectacular sight of "Golden Light Piercing the Cave" made my hand tremble as I pressed the shutter.

Day 2:
⏰ Key Tip: Rush into the scenic area at 7 AM! I chose the reverse route from East Gate → Wolongtan, perfectly avoiding the crowds.
👍🏻Must-visit Highlights:
Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge 🌉, Water Forest 🌲, Cuigu Waterfall 🏞️, Mandarin Duck Lake Boating 🛶

Day 3:
Yaoshan Ancient Village (Entrance fee 100 RMB). Experienced Yao pottery making firsthand. As the clay flowed through my fingertips, the Yao grandma's smiling eyes curved like a crescent moon 🌙. Evening long-table banquet + "Yaoshan·Yaoren" live performance!

🍜 Taste Bud Memories:
🐟Sour Soup Fish: Tender river fish with flavorful tofu, sour soup perfect for rice.
🐷Roasted Suckling Pig (Yao Village long-table banquet): Crispy skin, tender meat, fragrant and not greasy when dipped in chili powder.
🥤Bayberry Drink: 5 RMB a cup on the street, iced, sour and sweet.

❗ Hard-earned Tips:
🕢Beat the Crowds: Make sure to enter Xiaoqikong before 7:30 AM! I arrived at the ancient bridge half an hour late, and tour groups had already filled the bridge.
🧥What to Wear: Non-slip sandals + sun protection clothing! The waterfall area has a lot of mist, so a waterproof phone case is essential.
🏷️Tickets: Xiaoqikong combined ticket valid for 2 days (170 RMB including shuttle); Book Yaoshan performance package in advance to save 20 RMB.

💚 Why Libo?
When the hustle and bustle of the city is filtered by verdant mountains, and the mundane daily routine is shattered by the drumbeats of the Yao village – Libo offers me far more than just scenery; it's a mind and body reset. As I rowed through the morning mist of Mandarin Duck Lake, the ripples on the water shimmered like green silk; sitting by the ancient bridge, munching on roasted corn, the vendor grandma's smile was warmer than the sunlight. The beauty here is breathtaking in its grandeur and gently captivating in its details.