Shamian Island

Shamian Island is located in the Chinese province of Guangdong. Its name can be translated as “sand surface”. Not at all large in size, it is separated from the mainland of Canton by a narrow strait. Unlike the urban part of Guangzhou, the island has a completely different atmosphere. The whole area of the island is an architectural and cultural monument that has preserved the whole area, testifying to the strong British and French influence.

At the beginning of the XIX century the territory of Shamian was divided between England and France. Villas, trading offices, banks, luxury hotels, foreign consulates and representative offices were built here. On several occasions, Europeans tried to keep the island in their possession, but it was never annexed by European countries and remained under Chinese control. The locals are rather cool about colonial European architecture, so the area gradually declines.

Through the entire territory of the island there is a tourist hiking route along the old streets and avenues. All the buildings are buried in the greenery of the trees, there is no bustle that reigns on the other side of the strait. In addition to viewing the architecture, you can visit several restaurants, summer cafes and souvenir shops.