Weekend Getaway: FAST Telescope & Xiaoqikong
A self-drive mini-loop from Guiyang, visiting the FAST Telescope, staying in the Starry Sky Town, and exploring the waters of Libo.
Pack the FAST Telescope and Xiaoqikong into a long weekend, covering a round-trip distance of about 600 km. Visit the observation deck on the first day and stay in Kedu. On the second morning, see the Sky Bridge, and spend the afternoon at Xiaoqikong. On the third day, visit Daqikong before returning to Guiyang. Since Pingtang has no high-speed rail, self-driving or chartering a car is the most convenient option. This fast-paced itinerary is ideal for families with children and science enthusiasts.
Rainy days dull the water colors and are unfavorable for stargazing; feel free to swap the first two days depending on the weather.
Day by day
Day 1 · Climb the Observation Deck for the FAST Telescope
Pingtang（Pingtang Astronomy Experience Hall、FAST Observation Deck、Pingtang Astronomy Town）
Drive from Guiyang to the Kedu Visitor Center via the highway (about 2.5 to 3 hours), store your belongings, and transfer to the shuttle bus up the mountain.
Make a real-name reservation in advance; electronic devices such as phones, watches, and car keys must be stored in lockers.
Stay: Kedu Astronomy Town
Day 2 · Sky Bridge to Xiaoqikong
Pingtang（Pingtang Bridge (Sky Bridge)） → Libo（Xiaoqikong Scenic Area、Water Forest (Shuishang Senlin)、Wolong Pool）
Drive from Kedu to the Sky Bridge (about 35 minutes), then continue to the East Gate of Xiaoqikong (about 2.5 hours). The mountain highways have many curves.
Try to enter the park before noon; parking at the East Gate is limited, so book your tickets in advance.
Stay: Xiaoqikong East Gate
Day 3 · Daqikong & Return to Guiyang
Libo（Daqikong Scenic Area） → Guiyang
Explore Daqikong for about 3 hours in the morning, then return to Guiyang via the highway in the afternoon, a drive of about 3 hours.