Shamian Island, Guangzhou

Shamian Island, a tiny 0.3 sq km sandbank in Guangzhou’s Pearl River, is a historical gem. Ceded to Britain and France in 1859 after the Second Opium War, it became a colonial enclave with over 150 European-style buildings, including Gothic and Baroque churches like Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel (1892). Today, its tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, and the luxurious White Swan Hotel attract tourists and photographers. Accessible via Huangsha Metro or ferry, Shamian offers a serene escape from Guangzhou’s bustle, blending colonial history with Cantonese charm, perfect for a leisurely stroll.Read more