Cross the bridge from the mainland, walk the two main avenues, and finish with a riverside stroll.
Suggested Itinerary
- Enter from the east bridge
Cross the pedestrian bridge from the mainland to the island's east end. - The main avenue walk
Walk Shamian Street from east to west past the colonial buildings. - The riverside return
Return along the southern promenade past the White Swan Hotel.
What to See
1
Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel
A Gothic revival church in the island's centre.
2
The Former HSBC Building
A neoclassical bank building, now restored.
3
The French Consulate
A colonial building with its original ironwork verandahs.
4
The Banyan Tunnel
The canopy of old banyans over Shamian North Street.
5
The White Swan Hotel
The 1983 landmark on the riverbank - walk through the lobby.
6
The Wedding Photo Shoots
Chinese couples in Western wedding attire posing by the colonial facades.
Photo Gallery






Tips from Real Travelers
Food & Drink
The island's cafes
Several cafes in colonial buildings serving coffee and light meals.
The White Swan Hotel restaurants
Multiple dining options in the historic hotel.
Qingping Market (mainland)
5 minutes walk - traditional Guangzhou market food.
Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
10 minutes walk north - a major food and shopping street.
Travel in China
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