When walking along historic streets in Hainan Province, visitors may feel confused as to where they are – the architecture has strong similarities to southern Europe as well as southeast Asia. The buildings, called Qilou in Chinese, are some of the most exotic sights on the southern Chinese island. Designed for both residential and commercial uses, the structures are artistic and practical. /CFP Photo

Qilou is a type of building that features a protruding structure stretching above from the second storey over the sidewalk. The buildings in Hainan are usually two to four storied. /CFP Photo

Protected by the upper floors, which usually serve as apartments, pedestrians and storefronts are sheltered from both heavy rain and scorching sun. /CFP Photo

Qilou, which date back around 2,000 years to ancient Greece, feature Islamic-style arches and Romanesque columns. /CFP Photo