Shamian Island is a reminder of Guangzhou colonial history and covers an area of 24,000 sq meters at the side of the Pearl River. It is not a true island, the name Shamian means sandbank, and it is now connected to the rest of the city by a series of bridges. From the mid 18th to the mid 19th century, Shamian was the only place where foreign merchants were allowed to live in Guangzhou. The large villas and shady tree lined avenues that were constructed then have a faded charm and create a contrasting atmosphere to much of the city. While most of Guangzhou is battling along at breakneck pace Shamian is merely ambling. Along the river, the park area is a great place for people watching and tea drinking. Or walk along the wide sidewalks and dine in the open-air under the old trees.

Located on the historical Shamian Island, overlooking the famed Pearl River and facing the White Swan Pool, the White Swan Hotel remains an oasis of tranquility from the hustle and bustle of this busy city. The main building has the height of 34 storeys.The exquisitely beautiful Atrium lobby is an indoor microcosm of the famed landscapes of Southern China. Here waters abound, with a veil-like cascade and a spectacular rockery. Atop the rockery sits an elegant Chinese pavilion, octagon-shaped, with its richly ornate gold top, and a profusion of luxuriant vegetation and flowers.  Restaurants offering a wonderful variety of Chinese and  Western food spread over the public areas from the first floor to the third floor. The Jade River Restaurant, with its exquisite garden decor, is famed for its high standard
Cantonese cuisine. The multi-function Banquet Hall International, which can accommodate a maximum of 600 people, is equipped with sound and recording facilities as well as simultaneous translation equipment. This is the ideal venue for international conferences, meetings, receptions and exhibitions. The Coffee Shop and the Grill Room serve
excellent Western cuisine in an elegant ambience with river view. The Provincial Restaurant is specialized in the regional cuisine of Beijing, Sichuan and Shanghai. A Japanese Restaurant offers ethnic Japanese food, reminiscent of the traditional tastes of Kyoto. The Wanfu Pleasure Boat provides the best chance to enjoy the beautiful scene of the Pearl River.