[2025 Guangzhou Hotels] Travel Guide for Guangzhou Shamian Island YATLAND (Updated Jul)

📍Shamian Island is a small island with a European feel. You can walk around it in no time. The buildings and structures are in European style architecture. There are big trees, very shady. There are also restaurants, shops, and beautiful cafes where you can take pictures, check in, and sit and relax with a drink. 🕰️Opening and closing hours: All day 🎫Entrance fee: Free 🚆Transportation: Metro: Line 6, get off at Huangsha Station, Exit F, and walk across to the island.

📍Shamian Island (沙面岛) Shamian Island Here will give you the feeling of a park island with lots of trees. If it's hot, come here and you'll get shade from the trees. And the architecture here is in European style. There are many churches, cafes, and many uncles and aunties come to walk, dance, or do activities together. And there are people who come to take pre-wedding photos. 🕒Opening hours: All day 💰Entrance fee: Free 🚇Transportation: Metro: Line 1,6 Huangsha Station Exit F, E and walk across to the island #triptravelchina

Shamian Island is one of the most charming tourist destinations in Guangzhou, known for its unique blend of European architecture in China. Originally a leased area for the British and French during the 19th to early 20th century, the island features over 150 old buildings in Neo-Classical, Baroque, and Gothic Revival styles. Today, it has transformed into a peaceful pedestrian area with coffee shops, museums, and boutique hotels. Its serene and classic atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists who come to stroll, take photos, or enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle.

Take a moment to travel in time while walking at shamiandao island, sutable for all ages, take great photos to remember every moment.

#discoverchina Started the day at Sacred Heart Cathedral! It’s unfortunate that the Cathedral was closed as they have an event ongoing then! However we still managed to take nice photos of the cathedral! The cathedral is very magnificent in size and it stands out amongst the shophouses and warehouses surrounding that are- . Definitely worth to visit if you like to take Roman architecture! Next stop, we headed to Dongmenkou Dongmenkou is a popular night spot by locals and tourists alike. It features a lot of boutique stalls selling unique and trendy clothing, accessories and food! Definitely worth a walk there if you want to see some unique stalls ! #china #myitinerary #travel #couplestrip #thingstodo #guangzhou

Travel plan for people with limited time We chose to stay in Baijinglu because it is convenient for traveling and shopping. Starting early in the morning, we took the train from Baijinglu for 1 station. Walked through the dried herb market area, walked a little bit and arrived at the front of Guangzhou Sacred Heart Cathedral, Guangzhou Sacred Heart Cathedral. If you like to walk, go through the clothing market, which looks like a water gate, almost bankrupt, lol. A little further, you will reach Shamian Park, Shamian Park, take pictures and have fun. At noon, walk to Bruce Lee House, Yongqingfang Yongqingfang, visit the ancient walking street, Operation theater, Crescent Bridge, enjoy the garden, then walk to take the train to Grand View Mall, a large mall with many interesting places, including an aquarium, zoo, wax figures, amusement park, and shopping shops. Walked around the mall for a bit and continued on another train line. Go to Guangzhou Library (They don't allow loud noises. We are a Thai tour group, it was very chaotic, lol) In front of the library is Canton Tower. Take a picture from here. The view is nice and relaxing. On the way back, take the train and get off at Baijinlu to pray at Dafo Temple Dafo temple 大佛古寺 Walk around Jinglu, complete in 1 day Easy plan. We like to walk around their towns and see the locals' way of life and unusual shops. In conclusion, try to make a plan. Note: Don't ask how many kilometers you walked, lol (20 km++) #TravelChina #Guangzhou

Shamian Island is a small island located in the middle of the Zhujiang River, featuring European-style architecture right in the heart of the city. The name of the island translates to 'sandy surface.' It was formerly a concession area leased by the British and French. This charming spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll, taking photos, enjoying a cup of coffee, and soaking in the European-style scenery. The atmosphere is especially ideal for photography during the golden hour at sunset, offering a delightful mood. 📸🕍 ⏰ Open 24 hours. Getting there 🚇 Take Line 6 to Huangsha Station, Exit F, and walk across the pedestrian bridge to the island.

Shamien Island is an island that gives a European feel. It is a place that is very suitable for walking. There are not many people and it is not chaotic. If you go during the cold season, it will make you feel great.

"Stylish time travel at Shamian Island, Guangzhou!" For cafe lovers, European architecture lovers, and vintage photography lovers, Shamian Tourist Zone is a must-visit! This is a small island in the middle of Guangzhou, but it's full of European vibes, a perfect score! 🇫🇷🇬🇧 Colonial-style houses, ancient buildings, shady streets, and plenty of cool cafes! No matter where you walk, it's like you've stepped into a European movie. You don't need a lot of props. Just stand still and you'll get a great photo. 📸 There are small churches, classic tea shops, and places to sit and relax. It's perfect for a half-day stroll without rushing. Shamian Island = A romantic and classic accommodation in the heart of the city. For those who love a soft, no-frills retro vibe, you have to come here! #ShamianIsland #GuangzhouHiddenGem #CentralEuropeGuangzhou #VintageZone #GetDiscountsWithoutLuck

#discoverchina Definitely a must visit when you visit Hong Kong! Chances upon this Cha chan Teng that I did not know was a popular spot for breakfast! It’s situated head the hotel I stayed in Hong Kong! They serve the typical Cha chan Teng kind of breakfast, very local tastes! They have many various locations around Hong Kong and in many neighbourhoods! Do give it a try for the Authentic Cha Chan Teng experience ! #hongkong #china #travel

The island features stunning European style building, reflecting its history as a foreign concession during colonial era. Such a spot for photography, a lot of shops and eateries you can find here. If you're visiting here, dont forget your camera

#discoverchina 📍上下九步行街，永庆坊
😋： 陶陶居 
They are all located within walking distance of each other!
陶陶居 is one of the famous Michelin dimsum eats in Guangzhou!! Yes, it’s pricey but i feel is definitely worth the try as the food is very tasty!! 
We went to the original shop located in 山下九, the building itself is about 4 stories high! We then headed to 永庆坊, Bruce lee’s home is located here! However we did not manage to explore as it was under renovation. Nonetheless, this area is still worth a visit as there are many cafes and shops around the area! #familytravel #guangzhou #couplestrip #travel #china

#discoverchina Hopped over from Guangzhou via HSR! 
🚇: Boarded at Guangzhou East Station. 
Do note that there is only one station to arrive to which is Hongkong West Kowloon station! 
If you are coming from Guangzhou East, do take note that the waiting area is slightly away from the main waiting area! There is a specific waiting area for those departing to Hongkong, is located beside the small shops once you go up the escalator. 
The train ride is really fuss free, is a typical HSR ride that can be found in China, just that we will have to clear the China and Hong Kong Customs together! 
It was about a 2 hour train ride 🚝. 
You can check out how I travelled via HSR in Chengdu/Chongqing 
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🏠: our accommodation was in the Tsuen Wan West Area Nina Hotel Tsuen Wan West 
^Hotel has really tall buildings! Look at the view from our room at the 60th floor!
We decided on this hotel as it is connected to 2 malls, which was sufficient for us to get our meals. Tsuen Wan area is also about a 30 mins train ride to the city, which makes staying more affordable compared to places like Tsim Tsa Tsui or Mongkok. 
Tsuen Wan is surrounded by residential buildings, which means there are many eateries, 小店 we can find once we venture out of the hotel! 
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we explored Hongkong in a more leisure pace this time, given that it’s our 3rd time here! 
Here are a few places we visited: 
Yick Cheong Building [Monster Building]
Tsim Sha Tsui 
Mong Kok 
Nathan Rd [for Neon Lights and Dimsum! ]
Hong Kong Disneyland 
we also took a ding ding tram for the first time! It’s Hong Kong’s cheapest mode of transportation and we get to enjoy Hong Kong’s streets along the way! 
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‼️we can now use our credit/debit cards for transportation around Hong Kong! Just like in Singapore!
much more convenient for tourists who don’t have a 🐙 card! 
That being said …. A octopus card in Hong Kong, is still
Pretty much needed especially if you are dining in 小店, or visiting shops around the neighbourhoods, they mostly accept only payment via octopus card or cash!! 
However, the town and CBD areas in Hong Kong to accept credit card payments. All in all, getting an octopus card will still come in handy! 
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Hong Kong expenses is pretty much like Singapore if not, slightly more, even though flights to the country for SQ can be a low as SGD320 for a round trip! 
However, I personally still think is worth a trip there , for a different city vibe, the old Hong Kong architectures and of course their food 😋 #discoverchina #travel #couplestrip #thingstodo #familytravel #china #citydaytours #hongkong #disneyland

Resumed my travels in China and this time onwards to Guangzhou and Hong Kong !!
Even though Guangzhou might not have UNESCO Heritage Sites [or at least not to my knowledge 🤨] 
We went on a 8D7N trip for both countries!! Guangzhou truly lives up to its name of wholesale shopping and good food 🤤
I would say my expenditures for this trip weighs lesser compared to Shanghai, due to the costs of flight tickets and accommodations I managed to snag at discounted rates!! 
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Guangzhou 🇨🇳
Stayed at Fraser Suites Guangzhou, located in Tianhe district, similar to our town area in SG!
If you are going to Guangzhou with family, I will recommend Fraser! Fraser is an apartment like hotel where for a family of 5, we managed to book an apartment that consists of 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and it comes with a full kitchen as well!! It’s linked to a mall with a underground connecting metro: Shipaiqiao station 🚇
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📍: 时尚天河
Located within 10 mins walk from Fraser. It’s an underground mall decorated to resemble old Shanghai! There are many different street food options available, as well as many clothing and handicrafts stores. 
This can be a pitstop for a more leisure paced schedule! As this mall is located within the vicinity of 3 mega malls! 
📍： Shamian Island 沙面岛
🚇: Line 1 or 6, Huangsha Station, Exit F 
A place with great historic significance. Many European styled buildings, each housing a different storefront eg. Starbucks, teaware, vintage clothing and many more! 
We stayed here for about 1-2 hours before heading off! I will only recommend this place if you are into history and photography, if not, this place can be a miss as there is not much activity here!
📍上下九步行街，永庆坊
😋： 陶陶居
They are all located within walking distance of each other!
陶陶居 is one of the famous Michelin dimsum eats in Guangzhou!! Yes, it’s pricey but i feel is definitely worth the try as the food is very tasty!! 
We went to the original shop located in 山下九, the building itself is about 4 stories high! We then headed to 永庆坊, Bruce lee’s home is located here! However we did not manage to explore as it was under renovation. Nonetheless, this area is still worth a visit as there are many cafes and shops around the area!
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Above are the few places I went in Guangzhou that I felt were worth the visit!! Guangzhou has many wholesale shopping malls and due to the limited time we have in Guangzhou we chose to loop those out of the itinerary! 
Do note that we also visited Guangzhou in December, hence most wholesale will be selling winter clothing ❄️ #discoverchina #guangzhou #travel #familytravel #myitinerary #china #discoverchina

#discoverchina Shamian Island is a charming escape in Guangzhou, where European-style architecture meets lush tree-lined streets. A stroll here feels like stepping into a romantic movie set, perfect for capturing dreamy photos. With elegant colonial buildings, hidden cafés, and boutique wedding shops, it’s a picturesque spot for couples and wanderers alike. Easily spend two hours soaking in the island’s timeless beauty, snapping stunning shots at every turn. #mustvisit

This coffee shop good environment. Building here so nice

Here is a small island in China called Shamian Island Located in the middle of the Pearl River in Guangzhou, China In the past, this island was a concession of England and France Resulting in the European-style architecture that still remains to this day  Nowadays, it has become a popular tourist attraction with a shady and quiet atmosphere Suitable for walking and relaxing. Tourists can see old buildings With European architecture, including restaurants, cafes and hotels located in this area #NewYearTravel

🏖️Environment/Facilities: Good atmosphere

Shamian Island in Guangzhou is a beautiful and historically significant area located along the Pearl River. This picturesque island, covering about 24 hectares, reflects the unique fusion of Chinese and European architectural styles, dating back to the colonial period. Once a foreign concession area controlled by British and French forces during the 19th century, the island has retained its elegant charm with tree-lined avenues and well-preserved colonial buildings, giving visitors a glimpse into Guangzhou’s past. For those interested in history, Shamian Island offers numerous attractions, including the Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, a quaint Catholic church built in 1892. Another must-see is the Shamian Park, where you can enjoy peaceful walks surrounded by bronze statues that depict everyday life in old Guangzhou. White Swan Hotel, a luxury hotel on the island, offers breathtaking views of the river and has been a landmark since 1983. When it comes to food, Shamian Island is home to both traditional Cantonese cuisine and international offerings. A well-known spot for dining is Lucy’s Café, famous for its Western-style dishes such as burgers, steaks, and salads, providing a nostalgic taste of the past when the island catered to Western expatriates. For local flavors, try Shamian Tea House, which serves traditional Cantonese dim sum and a variety of teas in a charming, classical setting. Shamian Island is not only a place of historical interest but also a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. With its colonial-era architecture, riverside views, and excellent dining options, it is a perfect place to spend a relaxing day soaking in the rich history and culture of Guangzhou.

This hotel 🏨 is located by Bai'e Tan The environment is comfortable and elegant with a Nordic wooden style The coffee table and book 📚 desk in the lobby on the first floor are very distinctive The restaurant on the top floor offers a view of the river The splendid scenery makes people fall in love with this place Provides free minibar drinks And delicious candies 🍬 and other snacks The room is spacious, the bed 🛏️ is large and comfortable The bathroom is separated and bathrobes are provided Breakfast is provided, but unfortunately, there is no time to stay longer