North America’s second largest Chinatown is right here in Vancouver. It’s an area rich with history that recalls the city’s heritage as a hub for Chinese labourers who worked in the gold fields, coalmines and railways that established British Columbia’s economy during the nineteenth century. The Chinatown of today is more than just a historical landmark. Over the years, it has evolved into a diverse mecca of shops, restaurants and parks that are frequented by the equally diverse people who now call Chinatown home. Its many attractions offer an affordable alternative to downtown Vancouver’s escalating prices and diminishing parking spots. This guide will give you all the insights on what not to miss during your next visit down the Silk Road Route.
1 PEKING LOUNGE
83 E. Pender Street pekinglounge.com
Peking Lounge is a Chinatown staple, featuring elegant home furnishings that fuse contemporary design with traditional Chinese antiques. The store’s owners, Michael Bennett and Daniel Poulin, make frequent trips to China to acquire new pieces for their shop.
2 ERIN TEMPLETON
511 Carrall Street erintempleton.com
Since 2000, Erin Templeton’s handcrafted leather cuffs, belts and bags have been flying off the shelves of Vancouver boutiques. With the establishment of her own store in 2007,Templeton has expanded her offerings to include hats, shoes and vintage dresses.
3 WANTED
436 Columbia Street wantedvancouver.com
An environmentally responsible plant store that sells exotic plants and plant-care products in addition to home décor items crafted from recycled materials. Wanted also offers balcony design and installation as well as customized indoor gardens.
4 CHINATOWN NIGHT MARKET
100 Block of Keefer Street May 15 to September 6 Friday to Sunday 6:30 to 11:00 pm vcma.shawbiz.ca
A weekly shopping spectacle that features live performances, games and martial arts shows in addition to over 100 stalls brimming with art, electronics and delicious snacks.
