Shamian Island

Overview

Shamian Island (沙面) is a serene 900-metre-long sandbank in the Liwan District, separated from the mainland by a narrow canal. Once divided between the British and French concessions from 1861, it retains dozens of restored colonial-era buildings now hosting boutique cafés and consulates.

Highlights

• European Architecture: Over 150 heritage buildings in neoclassical, baroque, and Art Deco styles line the shaded boulevards.
• Tree-Lined Promenades: Mature banyan and camphor trees create a canopy that makes the island ideal for leisurely walks.
• Waterfront Sculptures: Bronze statues depicting daily life scenes dot the riverfront pathways.

History

Ceded after the Second Opium War in 1861, the island served as a Western trading enclave for nearly a century. After 1949 the buildings fell into disrepair until a major restoration campaign in the 1990s transformed it into a heritage precinct.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the banyan canopy.
• Getting There: Walk across the bridge from Huangsha metro station (Line 1).
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.