Shamian Island

Shamian Island, also known as Shamian, is a sandbank island located in the Liwan District of Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. The island has a rich history, having served as an important port for Guangzhou's foreign trade from the Song to the Qing dynasty. In 1859, the territory was divided into two concessions given to France and the United Kingdom, and it became a strategic point for city defense during the First and Second Opium Wars. Today, the island is a peaceful historical district with many buildings dating from the European colonial period, including the French Catholic chapel, Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, and the British Protestant church, Christ Church Shameen. The island is also home to several hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops, and is a popular destination for Western couples seeking to adopt Chinese babies and young children. The island's broad boulevards are lined with trees and are perfect for a stroll, and its tranquil atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and unwind