Explore Vancouver's arts scene, as well as the city's culture and history, in exquisite natural settings.
Vancouver's art exhibits, cultural sites and historic areas are an integral part of life in the city. Art galleries on South Granville, museums on Granville Island and historic buildings of Gastown add to Vancouver's vibrant artistic and cultural side.
Spend time in ethnic neighbourhoods that highlight the cultures and cuisines of Asia, India, Italy and Greece. Explore Aboriginal culture both in and beyond city limits. Whatever you choose to do, Vancouver’s wealth of cultural experiences is sure to impress.
Vancouver’s Chinatown and Richmond’s East Asian Community
Vancouver’s Chinatown is the second largest in North America by area and third largest by population. Enjoy a dim sum lunch, visit the largest classical Chinese garden outside of China, and browse diverse groceries and herbalist shops. Guided walking tours of this colourful neighbourhood are available.
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Just minutes south of Vancouver, Richmond’s Golden Village district is home to hundreds of Asian shops, services and restaurants. Those looking for an enlightening cultural experience can visit the city’s International Buddhist Temple, perhaps the most exquisite example of traditional Chinese architecture in Canada.
In summer, outdoor Chinese night markets are held every weekend in both Vancouver and Richmond – vendors sell food, clothing and other wares at great prices.
In June, the Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat Festival attracts thousands of visitors to Vancouver's False Creek for traditional Chinese longboat races and live entertainment.
Metro Vancouver's South Asian Community
Metro Vancouver is home to a large South Asian community. In Vancouver's Little India district, dine on authentic cuisine and shop for jewellery and fabrics. Pick up traditional sweets each fall during Diwali, the South Asian festival of light, or attend a Vaisakhi parade held in Vancouver and Surrey each spring – Surrey's celebration of this Sikh holiday attracts well over a hundred thousand parade-goers every year.
Ethnic Neighbourhoods in Vancouver
Vancouver’s numerous ethnic neighbourhoods give visitors the opportunity to experience a host of different cultures and cuisines without leaving town.
In addition to Little India, Vancouver has a Little Italy centred around Commercial Drive in the eastern part of the city. Head to "The Drive" for excellent Italian restaurants, delis and cafés. Numerous Greek restaurants and shops can be found along West Broadway, while North Vancouver’s Persian shopping and dining opportunities attest to the city’s significant Iranian community.
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