Guangzhou︱Shamian

Shamian

Want to have a glimpse of Britain and France but couldn’t afford the time for a long trip to Europe? Shamian in Guangzhou might be a good alternative.

You can learn about the history of Shamian and the diplomatic history of contemporary China by visiting the Guangdong Foreign Affairs Museum, previously the French consulate. You can then visit the Shamian Christian Church and the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes to experience a moment of tranquillity. Paying a visit to Shamian Park and French Concession Garden can let you enjoy your leisure time as if you are in a European park.

There are many “check-in spots” in Shamian, two of them being Customs Red Building and the former Soviet Consulate built with red bricks. Others include the pure white building in the British style, the former ice & cold storage of Dairy Farm. There is also the bank of Taiwan with a light yellow front door in the French style, where you can take beautiful photos with a European literary touch.

After having a nice tea at a continental-style café or restaurant, go behind the White Swan Hotel, one of the best in Guangzhou, to enjoy the spectacular convergence of three rivers at the Pearl River. It makes a full experience to take a nice rest in the Victory Hotel after going on a binge at the bars. The hotel was regenerated from the old HSBC building, where you can feel a historical aura.