Shamian Island (Shamian Dao) is arguably the most charming area of Guangzhou. As soon as you cross the Liuersan Lu on to this tiny area, the pace of life is markedly different.

Traffic restrictions on the island ease pollution and congestion problems. Police patrol to keep beggars off the streets and slowly but surely, cafes, restaurants and bars are spilling out on to the streets and gentrifying the area.

The island was awarded to the British and French after the Opium Wars and European style architecture abounds here and the colonial influence is evident in houses, villas, churches and tennis courts. The French Catholic Church on the main street of the island is a nice example of the European influence. There is also a lovely park just off the main street.