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Lion Dance, Chinese New Year Paradespacer
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Vancouver Things To Do

 

Aboriginal & Cultural

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Take part in our culture.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
JF Bergeron photo
Richly woven textures and traditions of different cultures, lifestyles and experiences come together in this city of diversity. Time spent taking part in any one of our cultural centres is bound to leave a lasting impression.

Explore the award-winning Museum of Anthropology. Stroll the colourful streets of Chinatown. Take a moment to reflect at the Chinese Buddhist Temple. Shop the bustling stores of Richmond's Golden Village. Visit the lively Punjabi markets of Little India. Sip a latté at a sidewalk café on Commercial Drive.

Whatever cultural experience you happen upon, you'll be glad that you did.

 

Highlights


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Visitor Centres 

Address Location  

1. Museum of Anthropology - Vancouver

6393 N.W. Marine Drive
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6T1Z2

The museum showcases over 13,000 pieces of First Nations and international artifacts. Highlights include the immense doors at the main entrance, carved by four master Gitxsan artists and the totem poles in the Great Hall.

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Chinatown



Vancouver has been home to a vibrant Chinese community since the mid-19th century. Today, the city's Chinatown is one of the largest in North America.

If you are looking for an authentic Asian encounter complete with unique architecture, exotic culinary aromas and an array of exotic imported goods, then Chinatown awaits your arrival.

A word or two on safety:

  • Be mindful of the fact that Chinatown, while very safe, is located in a more graphic part of the city
> Chinatown website.


The Buddhist Temple


 
Serenity. Peace. Tranquility. These are just a few of the words that come to mind after a visit to the Buddhist Temple in Richmond.

The temple expresses the philosophies of Buddhism to its visitors by way of traditional ceremonies, Chinese art displays, a sculpture collection and meticulous architecture.

The building itself is credited as being the most impressive example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture in the country.

> Buddhist Temple website.


Richmond's Golden Village

Richmond is a city with a deeply rooted Asian community. In particular, its Golden Village Shopping district in the heart of the commercial area serves as a showcase of Asian entrepreneurship.

Here you will find a multitude of shops in Asian-themed malls selling a range of foods and merchandise from the Far East. You won't want to miss Aberdeen Centre, Parker Place Shopping Centre, President Plaza or Union Square Mall. Expect jostling, noisy crowds as you stroll from shop to shop - it's part of the ambience.



Little India

Vancouver benefits from a population of approximately 60,000 East Indian immigrants. Its vibrant shopping district, Punjabi Market, is worth a visit.

Indeed, this part of Little India bears a striking resemblance to its homeland, with its array of fine silk cloths, exotic spices, authentic food and a high concentration of jewellers who are always open for bargaining.



Commercial Drive


The Drive is home to both Little Italy and Vancouver's counter-culture. Believe it or not, it works.

Hip restaurants and shops do a brisk business next to traditional sidewalk cafés and genuine trattoria. 

Stop and enjoy entertaining buskers. Pick up fresh produce and artisan foods at the East Vancouver Farmers Market (Saturdays from mid-May to October). For a traditional Commercial Drive experience, sip a latté at a sidewalk café and people-watch to your heart's content.

> Commercial Drive website.
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