The factories shown on the right in the distance fly the flag of their respective countries. Denmark is furthest right then Britain, with the United States of America on the left. They are housed in buildings showing western influences and which dominate the skyline. The painting's outer date range is given by the presence of the church and the fact that a major fire levelled the area in 1856. A steamer, shown broadside on in the centre, is probably owned by the Hong Kong and Canton Steam Packet Co. It flies the red ensign demonstrating the important relationship between British interests, based at Hong Kong, and China. The painting concentrates upon the significance of the river and the variety of different craft in the centre, from small local junks to larger trading vessels. Although there is considerable activity shown on the individual boats, a serene stillness pervades the scene.

This highly stylised painting fuses western topographical methods with Chinese influences. The artist has incorporated such typical eastern features as a mountain in the distance on the far right. The emphasis overall is on calm, reflected by the blue sky occupying half the canvas.