Welcome to Chinatown

Chinatown

One of Vancouver’s few distinct cultural historic neighbourhoods, Chinatown has a universal appeal to locals, tourists, as well as a growing number of emerging chefs, artists, and small business entrepreneurs. The distinct character of buildings are preserved by a heritage designation with murals and window art telling the stories of early Chinese pioneers. Between 1886-1920, the first wave of Chinese immigrants settled around Carrall Street and Dupont (now Pender) Street. By 1890, the area was home to more than 1,000 Chinese residents. One of the earliest community institutions evolved around the creation of the first of three Chinese opera theatres, the first built in 1890s.
In a parallel setting, Canton Alley and Shanghai Alley were named in 1904 with Canton Alley serving as a a point of convergence for trade, political, and cultural activities which fostered the growth and expansion of Chinatown. Today’s Chinatown is a destination neighbourhood attracting people from across British Columbia and also international tourists. With numerous new attractions and activities nearby, Chinatown is the most complete area with its growing number of renowned restaurants and boutique retail for every budget while honouring the memory of early settlers of our community.