A seriously underrated treasure! The water of Xiaoqikong in autumn is God's palette​

Low-key Libo actually boasts the famous Zhangjiang Scenic Area. As the core of this area, Xiaoqikong shines brightest in autumn. At this time, the water is no longer the muddy yellow rush of summer but settles into various shades of green and blue, calm as a mirror. Together with the gradually changing autumn leaves on both banks, it forms a palette spilled by God himself, making it a seriously underrated autumn water wonderland. ​​"Itinerary Planning: 1-Day Water Forest Essence Tour"​​ This is a classic route with no backtracking. Morning: Enter from the West Gate of the scenic area, take the sightseeing bus directly to the innermost Wolong Pool, then tour downstream: Mandarin Duck Lake (must row a boat) - Cuigu Waterfall - Water Forest - Laya Waterfall - 68-Step Waterfall. Afternoon: Arrive at the iconic Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, then walk along the path to the East Gate to end the perfect trip. This route is downhill, saving energy while enjoying the highlights. ​​"Highlights Recommendation: Star Rating Style"​​ 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Wolong Pool: The water is extremely clear and deep blue, like a pure sapphire. In autumn, the water is mirror-like, with stunning reflections. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Mandarin Duck Lake Boating: Highly recommended! Rowing in the water maze, the paddle breaking the water surface feels like swimming in a painting, with a unique perspective. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge: An iconic spot, with gentle water flow in autumn. The seven-arched bridge and its reflection in the water create a charming and ancient atmosphere. ​​"Check-in Guide: Timeline Style Photo Tips"​​ 8:00-10:00 AM: Arrive at Wolong Pool first thing; at this time, there are the fewest tourists and the water surface is calmest, perfect for capturing flawless reflections. 10:00 AM-12:00 PM: Row a boat on Mandarin Duck Lake; with ample light, you can capture the lake’s transparent emerald colors. 2:00-4:00 PM: Tour from Water Forest to the 68-Step Waterfall; shoot with front light to capture saturated water flow and colorful autumn foliage. 4:00-5:00 PM: Arrive at Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge; use the soft sunset light to photograph the bridge’s weathered charm. ​​"In-Depth Experience: The Poetry of Boating on Mandarin Duck Lake"​​ Rowing yourself on Mandarin Duck Lake is a must. We rented a metal boat and clumsily rowed toward the lake’s center. When the oars stirred the dark green water, creating ripples, the whole world fell silent. We passed through a "maze" formed by tall aquatic plants, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating dappled patterns. Occasionally, water birds were startled and flew away flapping their wings. At that moment, it felt like we owned the entire lake. This freedom and tranquility cannot be experienced from the shore. ​​"Practical Information: ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide"​​ ⚠️ The scenic area is large; be sure to buy a sightseeing bus ticket, walking alone will be exhausting. ⚠️ To photograph the ancient bridge without people, either arrive with the earliest group or wait until near closing time in the afternoon. ⚠️ Boating on Mandarin Duck Lake requires an additional fee and is manual rowing, needing some physical effort, but it’s absolutely worth it. ⚠️ Be sure to wear non-slip sandals or Crocs so you can freely play in the Water Forest and at the waterfalls. This seriously underrated autumn water wonderland will definitely make you marvel at the magic of nature’s palette.