20 Things to Do in Chinatown Vancouver
Chinatowns around the world serve as vibrant cultural neighborhoods that reflect the rich heritage and traditions of Chinese immigrants in various countries. From the bustling streets of San Francisco, known for its iconic gate and annual Lunar New Year celebrations, to the historic markets of London’s Chinatown, these places are fun to explore. Let’s check out the things you can do in Chinatown Vancouver.
As one of the best neighbourhoods in Vancouver, Chinatown Vancouver is a high-spirited and enchanting place of culture, history, and culinary delights that attracts visitors from all backgrounds.
As one of North America’s oldest and largest Chinatowns, it offers a rich portrait through its colorful streets, historic buildings, and unique markets.
Places to Visit in Chinatown Vancouver
So, without further ado, let’s delve deeper into Vancouver Chinatown and find out more about its attractions.
1. Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a must-visit place that combines breathtaking architecture and serene nature. This garden is the first Ming Dynasty-style garden built outside of China, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Chinese culture and design.
You can explore its harmonious design, featuring exotic plants, rock formations, and peaceful ponds while learning about its cultural significance through guided tours.
2. Explore the Chinese Canadian Museum
The Chinese Canadian Museum provides an informative journey through the history of Chinese Canadians and their contributions to the region. Interactive exhibits and artifacts show the rich heritage and cultural influences that have shaped Vancouver, making it a great educational stop. The museum’s displays feature stories, photographs, and historical exhibits, which give insight into the Chinese community’s struggles and achievements in Canada.
3. Experience the Vancouver Chinatown Festival
One of the most exciting events in Chinatown is the annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival, typically held in mid-August. This festival features live entertainment, cultural performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect trip for everyone. The festival celebrates the rich culture of Chinatown Vancouver and remains a highlight of the year for both locals and tourists.
4. Indulge in Dim Sum at Local Restaurants
Chinatown is renowned for its delicious dim sum offerings, which include a variety of steamed dumplings, buns, and other bite-sized treats. Popular spots such as Floata Seafood Restaurant and Jade Dynasty serve authentic options that provide a true taste of Chinese cuisine. You can experience the unique tradition of dim sum dining, often accompanied by tea. This culinary experience is a delightful way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
5. Stroll Through Historic Streets
Taking a walk through the historic streets of Chinatown allows you to soak in the neighborhood’s atmosphere. Landmark structures such as the Millennium Gate, which serves as the entrance to Chinatown Vancouver, and the historic buildings lining Pender Street reflect the area’s architectural heritage.
Unique shops, street art, and big markets contribute to the lively environment, giving a sense of the historical significance and cultural richness of Chinatown.
6. Attend the Chinese New Year Parade
The Chinese New Year Parade is another significant cultural event that takes place annually in Chinatown, attracting thousands of spectators. The festivities occur on the weekend following the Chinese New Year and include traditional lion dances, martial arts performances, and colorful floats. This event is a fantastic opportunity for you to experience the celebrations that show the rich traditions of the Chinese community.
7. Try Traditional Chinese Medicine
Chinatown Vancouver is home to many apothecaries and herbal shops. You can explore traditional Chinese medicine and its holistic approaches to health and wellness, with a variety of herbs, remedies, and health products available for purchase.
Some shops even offer consultations with herbalists who can provide personalized recommendations. This unique experience allows you to understand the holistic practices prevalent in Chinese culture.
8. Discover the Vancouver Police Museum
As one of the best museums in Vancouver, the Police Museum is worth visiting for those interested in local history. The museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, including exhibits on crime and law enforcement in the city. The historical narratives and objects presented provide you insight into the development of law enforcement practices and the cultural context surrounding them in Vancouver.
9. Relax at the Chinese Cultural Centre
The Chinese Cultural Centre serves as a focal point and provides various programs and events that celebrate Chinese culture and heritage. The center includes a library, art exhibitions, and rooms for cultural performances, making it a lively space for community engagement. You can check the center’s schedule for ongoing activities and workshops, enriching their understanding of Chinese culture and traditions through immersive experiences.
10. Visit The Jack Chow Building
The Jack Chow Building, originally known as the Sam Kee Building, is one of the world’s narrowest freestanding office buildings, measuring just six feet two inches in depth.
The building has been recognized by ‘Guinness World Records’ and ‘Ripley’s Believe It or Not!’ for its remarkable slenderness. It has been designated a heritage site and is celebrated for its historical significance within Vancouver’s Chinatown community. Overall, it is one of the most fun places you can visit in Chinatown Vancouver.
Chinatown Restaurants
There are plenty of great restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver. Here is the cream of the crop:
1. Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie
Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie is a standout dining spot known for its modern interpretation of Chinese cuisine inspired by various regions, including Taiwan and Sichuan. The restaurant offers a unique small plate concept, allowing you to sample a diverse array of dishes crafted with sustainably sourced ingredients and no MSG. That’s why it is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Vancouver.
Signature items include handmade dumplings and flavorful cocktails, making it an ideal location for both casual dining and special occasions.
2. Phnom Penh Restaurant
Phnom Penh has earned its reputation as a top choice for Southeast Asian cuisine in Vancouver, particularly for its Cambodian and Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant is famous for its crispy, deep-fried chicken wings, and delicious rice noodle bowls, which showcase authentic flavors created with generous portion sizes and reasonable prices.
Dining at Phnom Penh is often a unique experience, as customers are willing to queue for a taste of its specialties.
3. Kissa Tanto
Kissa Tanto merges Japanese and Italian culinary traditions, creating an innovative and diverse menu. Located in a charming space reminiscent of a 1960s Tokyo jazz club, the restaurant has gained national praise for its unique fusion dishes and creative ambiance. Its famous menu items include the duck agnolotti and daily fish crudo, appealing to those seeking a distinctive dining experience in Chinatown Vancouver.
4. Sai Woo
Sai Woo combines modern culinary techniques with the rich heritage of Chinatown, offering a contemporary Asian Fusion menu in one of the area’s historic buildings.
Since its establishment in 1925, the restaurant has maintained its identity while evolving its menu to include a variety of pan-Asian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. You can enjoy dishes like pork and kimchi dumplings, as well as an extensive selection of cocktails in its unique space.
5. Jade Dynasty Restaurant
As a longstanding favorite for dim sum enthusiasts, Jade Dynasty Restaurant has been delighting people with its generous portions and creative menu offerings. Known for its har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), Jade Dynasty captures the essence of traditional dim sum dining. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere is perfect for both family meals and gatherings with friends, making it a quintessential stop in Chinatown Vancouver if you’re craving dim sum.
Bars in Chinatown
One popular activity in Chinatown is socializing at the numerous bars in the area. Here’s a list of the ones with the highest quality:
1. The Keefer Bar
The Keefer Bar is widely recognized as one of the top bars in Vancouver and has been ranked as Canada’s second-best bar for several consecutive years. It features an apothecary-inspired design, creating a unique ambiance complemented by a menu of over 25 specialty cocktails.
The Keefer Bar is known for its creative mixology, including signature cocktails like the Chinatown Sour and the Rosemary Gimlet, making it a must-visit if you’re a cocktail enthusiast.
2. Fortune Sound Club
Fortune Sound Club is a dynamic venue that doubles as a nightclub and a bar, making it a premier spot for nightlife in Chinatown Vancouver. The club hosts local and international DJs, ensuring a lively atmosphere filled with music and entertainment.
With its multi-purpose space, Fortune Sound Club also features a restaurant, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a night out with food and drinks in a cool setting.
3. Laowai
Laowai is a hidden gem located behind a dumpling shop, adding an element of intrigue for anyone seeking a unique bar experience. This speakeasy-style bar requires you to enter through a freezer door by asking for a specific number, making it a fun adventure. Once inside, you can enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail menu in an intimate, cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the Chinatown vibe.
4. Bagheera
Another speakeasy-style bar, Bagheera, is hidden away behind a faux betting shop facade, further enhancing the secretive allure of this venue. You can gain access by playfully engaging in the bar’s theme, making it an entertaining experience. Bagheera’s cocktail list features inventive drinks set in an atmosphere that transports you back in time, allowing for a truly memorable night out.
5. The Emerald
The Emerald stands out for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse drink menu, featuring craft cocktails, local brews, and fine wines. Additionally, it has a welcoming vibe and is an ideal spot for winding down after a long week or enjoying a casual evening with friends. The bar also hosts various live music events, making it an exciting location to experience local talent and vibrant performances while enjoying great drinks.
Conclusion
That’s all for the best things you can do In Chinatown Vancouver. However, Chinatown is not the only place you can visit in this city. There are plenty of other things to do in Vancouver. Meanwhile, whether you want to live in this city of just explore it as a tourist, Chinatown should be on your list.
FAQs
1. How Can I Get to Chinatown Vancouver?
Chinatown Vancouver is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and the SkyTrain. Major streets leading into it include Pender, Hastings, and Main, with the Stadium-Chinatown Station being a convenient stop for visitors traveling from further away.
2. When Is The Best Time to Visit Chinatown?
You can visit Chinatown Vancouver year-round, but weekends often feature more activities, markets, and local events. Evening visits can also be delightful, especially when many restaurants and shops remain open late.
3. Can I Explore Chinatown on Foot?
Chinatown is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its environment. While walking along the narrow streets, you can discover hidden gems, shops, restaurants, and stunning architecture.
