Libo Ancient Town (荔波古镇) is a meticulously reconstructed heritage site, situated on the former site of Libo Stone City from the Qing Dynasty. This picturesque destination encompasses four distinct areas, showcasing the cultural richness of the Buyi, Shui, Miao, and Yao ethnic groups in Libo County. Seamlessly blending classical Chinese architecture, garden artistry, and the preservation and display of Guizhou’s diverse ethnic cultures, Libo Ancient Town is a holistic experience covering the six essential elements of eating, living, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.
The origins of Libo Shicheng date back to the second year of the Qing Emperor Qianlong’s reign. The city walls, with a circumference exceeding 2000 meters and a height surpassing 5 meters, featured four gates – Dongxu, Xicheng, Nanxun, and Beigong – each accompanied by a cannon tower. Unfortunately, the town succumbed to an epidemic in the fifth year of the Tongzhi era. During its prosperous 130-year history, various public buildings were erected, including the Wenmiao (Confucius Temple), Wumiao (Warrior Temple), Celebration Palace, Yangji Yuan, Wenchang Palace, Kuixing Pavilion, Liquan Academy, and Chenghuang Temple. Libo Ancient Town stands as a testament to the town’s vibrant past, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural mosaic woven through centuries of history.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Libo Ancient Town
- Vlog about Libo Ancient Town
- Useful Tips Summarized From Reviews
- Other Attractions in Libo
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0854-3789888 |
Location and Transportation
Libo Ancient Town is nestled in Jianshe Village, Yuping Town, Libo County, within the Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province, China. Tourists can take a high-speed train from either Guiyang North Station or Guiyang Station to Libo Station, which takes approximately a little over 1 hour. Upon arriving at Libo Station, you can easily cover the remaining 13 kilometers to Libo Ancient Town by taking a taxi.
Highlights of Libo Ancient Town
Ethnic Culture
Libo, a county inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, has fostered a rich tapestry of culture and vibrant ethnic traditions. The Buyi, Shui, Miao, Yao, and Han ethnicities have coexisted harmoniously on this beautiful land, contributing to a kaleidoscope of cultural diversity and authentic ethnic charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively and humorous Buyi wedding rituals known as “Langwai,” the grand and extraordinary Shui ethnic “Maopo” singing duel, the free-spirited Miao ethnic courtship and marriage customs, and the ancient and mysterious Yao ethnic wall-carving marriage proposals and belt-snatching ceremonies. These experiences evoke curiosity and a desire for exploration, providing a glimpse into the fascinating world of Libo’s ethnic cultures.
Ancient Town Bars
The “Ancient Town Bars Street” is a dedicated leisure and entertainment area tailored for tourists. Most bars feature resident singers and offer a variety of atmospheres, including serene lounges and lively bars, creating a vibrant nightlife scene. The walls of these bars are adorned with colorful notes and messages left by visitors, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Intangible Cultural Heritage Display Garden
The “Intangible Cultural Heritage Display Garden” serves as a concentrated showcase within the ancient town, presenting world-class, national, provincial, and regional intangible cultural heritage projects. Accompanied by live demonstrations from the inheritors themselves, visitors can witness and appreciate the richness and magic of China’s intangible cultural heritage. The interactive approach extends to marketing strategies, allowing visitors to actively participate in simple processing activities, enhancing their direct and immersive experiences.
Vlog about Libo Ancient Town
Useful Tips Summarized From Reviews
Explore the Food Street: While the attractions in Libo Ancient Town are similar to other ancient towns across the country, the food street in Libo offers a wider variety of local delicacies. It’s recommended to explore this area for a culinary adventure.
Experience Ethnic Culture and Architecture: Libo Ancient Town is an excellent destination for experiencing ethnic culture and admiring ancient architecture. However, be prepared for a heavy commercial atmosphere.
Attend Evening Performances During Festivals: During festivals, especially in the evenings, the town hosts the “Flowing Lights and Colors – Libo Nights” performance. This includes various activities such as ensemble performances of traditional musical instruments, local liquor tasting, spinning tops, street acrobatics, special performances, and interactive bonfire shows, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Transportation Considerations: Keep in mind that transportation to and from Libo Ancient Town might not be very convenient. There are fewer bus services between the county town and Guiyang. Plan your transportation accordingly and be prepared for potential delays or limited options.
