Chinatown

Vancouver's Chinatown is a National Historic Site—one of the largest and most significant Chinatowns in North America. Established in the 1890s, the neighborhood served as the cultural and economic heart of Vancouver's Chinese community for over a century. In 2026, Chinatown stands at a fascinating crossroads: deeply rooted in tradition while undergoing significant revitalization.

The neighborhood is defined by its stunning historic architecture—ornate heritage buildings with recessed balconies, decorative facades, and the iconic Millennium Gate at Pender and Taylor. Cultural landmarks like the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and the Chinese Cultural Centre preserve the neighborhood's legacy, while traditional shops selling dried seafood, herbal medicine, and imported goods remain family-run after generations.

But Chinatown in 2026 is also evolving. A wave of creative businesses has arrived: modern cocktail bars tucked into heritage buildings, contemporary Asian fusion restaurants, and specialty coffee shops. This brings a younger, diverse crowd alongside longtime residents and families who've been here for decades. The result is a neighborhood with extraordinary character—but also complexity. Living here means embracing both the cultural richness and the urban challenges that come with being adjacent to the Downtown Eastside.

Vancouver's Chinatown was established in the 1890s when Chinese immigrants arrived during the gold rush and railroad construction era. The neighborhood became a self-sufficient community due to discriminatory laws that restricted where Chinese people could live, work, and own property. Despite facing the Chinese Exclusion Act (1923-1947), the community thrived culturally and economically. Pender Street became the commercial heart, lined with merchants, herbalists, restaurants, and clan associations. After immigration laws changed in the 1960s, many families moved to Richmond and other suburbs, but Chinatown remained a cultural anchor. The neighborhood was designated a National Historic Site in 2011. In 2026, ongoing revitalization efforts aim to preserve heritage while supporting new businesses and addressing urban challenges.

Demographics: Chinatown's demographics have diversified significantly. While historically predominantly Chinese Canadian, the neighborhood now includes significant Filipino, Vietnamese, and other Asian communities, along with younger non-Asian residents attracted by affordability and character. The area has a mix of long-time elderly residents, service workers, artists, and young professionals. Income levels vary widely, from low-income seniors to higher-earning newcomers.