Sampans on the Pearl River (Zhu Jiang)

Sampans on the Pearl River at Guangzhou The Pearl River (Zhu Jiang) is the main trade artery between Guangzhou (Canton) and Hong Kong. Here at Guangzhou sampans mingle with coasters and barges.

The word sampan (sometimes spelled sampaan) means 'three boards' and refers to the traditional method of construction. Sampans are seen at all sea ports and navigable rivers in South China.