Sampan/ˈsæmpæn/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Origin A sampan is a traditional boat, often seen in Asian culture and art. Traditional sampans are depicted in many ancient Chinese paintings. Pro Tip 2/3Usage Context Sampans are commonly used for fishing, transportation, or as living spaces. Families sometimes live on their sampan in Hong Kong's harbor. Pro Tip 3/3Geographic Relevance While sampans are found in China and Southeast Asia, they are symbolic of Asian waterways. Touring the Mekong Delta often involves a sampan ride.