Chinatown Tours and Activities

Victoria featuring a city, street scenes and a house
Victoria featuring café scenes, a city and markets
Chinatown
Victoria featuring central business district, café scenes and signage
Victoria showing signage and markets


Discover the passageways, temples, murals, shops and traditional Asian restaurants in this historic district established by Canada’s first Chinese immigrants.

In Chinatown Victoria you can admire historic architecture, sample traditional Chinese food or enjoy cultural festivities. This artistic part of the city’s downtown area is very popular with tourists. Come here to talk to fortune tellers, see Canada’s narrowest street and shop for unique garments.

From the mid 1800s onwards Victoria became a base for Asian immigrants looking for gold and labor in British Columbia. Many settled in the area around present-day Market Square and part of this district is still classed as Chinatown today. This National Historic Site is well preserved and has an authentic feel to it. 

A fitting way to enter Chinatown Victoria is through the Gate of Harmonious Interest, a 1981 monument dedicated to Canada’s multicultural society. A whole century older is the the former On Hing and Brothers Store on Fisgard Street. Look up at the street murals depicting scenes from the district’s past to see how the first Chinese immigrants lived.

Be sure to visit Fan Tan Alley, in the heart of Chinatown, to walk along the narrowest street in Canada. At one point the street is less than 3 feet (1 meter) wide. Originally the home of illegal gambling clubs and opium dens, this passageway is now full of quaint stores.

To see more Chinese relics, look for the Yen Wo Society Building on Government Street. Climb the 52 steps to the top floor to arrive at one of Canada’s oldest Buddhist temples, which is dedicated to the god Tam Kung. See worshipers kneel in front of the shrine to seek his advice on important personal matters.

Come back to Chinatown during one of its many cultural events, such as the weekly Night Market in summer. Sample soft dim sum (dumplings) and crispy lumpia (spring rolls) and watch Asian dance and martial arts performances. In January or February, the parades of the Chinese New Year celebrations entertain the crowds. Find a schedule of events on the Chinatown Night Market official website.

Located downtown, Chinatown Victoria is within walking distance of all major city attractions and public buses stop nearby. Pay-and-display parking is available in the district.

Plan a trip to see Chinatown

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Best Lodging Options Near Chinatown

Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
740 Burdett Ave, Victoria, BC
Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites
Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress

4.5 out of 5
721 Government St, Victoria, BC
Fairmont Empress
Hotel Grand Pacific

Hotel Grand Pacific

4 out of 5
463 Belleville St, Victoria, BC
Hotel Grand Pacific
Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel

Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
642 Johnson St, Victoria, BC
Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel
Hotel Rialto

Hotel Rialto

3.5 out of 5
653 Pandora Ave., Victoria, BC
Hotel Rialto
Ocean Island Inn Backpackers Suites - Hostel

Ocean Island Inn Backpackers Suites - Hostel

2 out of 5
791 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC
Ocean Island Inn Backpackers Suites - Hostel
Island Travel Inn

Island Travel Inn

2 out of 5
1850 Douglas St, Victoria, BC
Island Travel Inn
Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites

Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites

3 out of 5
1234 Wharf St, Victoria, BC
Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites
Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour

Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour

3 out of 5
427 Belleville St, Victoria, BC
Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria On The Harbour
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Chinatown

In Chinatown, Victoria, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including engaging Chinatown tours and delightful walking tours that explore the area's rich history. Experience unique local shops, savour delicious treats on an old town food tour, and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to shop for souvenirs and indulge in whalewatching adventures nearby for a truly memorable experience in this charming neighbourhood.

Shopping

In Chinatown, you can explore the vibrant Market Square and Victoria Public Market, both a mere 161m away, offering unique gifts and local flavours. For more extensive shopping, the Bay Centre is only 483m away, perfect for a broader selection of souvenirs.

Recreation

At Royal Athletic Park, immerse yourself in energetic sports vibes with various activities to enjoy. For a serene outdoor experience, Uplands Golf Club offers a lush golf course surrounded by nature. Meanwhile, Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre provides a perfect spot for relaxation and wellness with its fitness facilities.

Adventure

Embark on the Galloping Goose Trail, a scenic hiking experience located 1.6km from Chinatown, offering breathtaking outdoor views. Explore the Scenic Marine Route, 3.2km away, where you can enjoy stunning coastal scenery. For an adrenaline rush, visit WildPlay West Shore Victoria for thrilling bungee jumping, 8.0km away.

Nightlife

In Chinatown, Victoria, the nightlife buzzes with excitement at the Victoria Royal Theatre, offering a romantic cultural experience. For family fun, Miniature World provides thrilling adventures, while the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory captivates with its fascinating celestial displays. Each venue adds a unique charm to the vibrant evening atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Chinatown

Chinatown in Victoria, British Columbia, offers a vibrant blend of urban parks, historic civic buildings, and lively streets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying family-friendly experiences. Exploring the area will reveal its rich heritage, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a unique city experience. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the bustling streets of this iconic neighbourhood.

  • Government Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Government Street, located a mile from Chinatown. This bustling thoroughfare offers a mix of shops, cafes, and local artisans, perfect for immersing yourself in the city's lively culture.
  • Royal BC Museum: Just 966m from Chinatown, the Royal BC Museum is a treasure trove of natural history and culture. It's an ideal spot for families, showcasing fascinating exhibits that celebrate British Columbia's rich heritage.
  • Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre: Located a mere 483m away, this arena hosts exciting events and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with concerts, sports events, and more.

Best time to go to Chinatown

The best time to visit Chinatown can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Chinatown falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Chinatown falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.6°F (14.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August63.5°F (17.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chinatown

Chinatown, Victoria, is budget-friendly with free entry and nearby attractions like Government Street and Fisherman's Wharf. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim to book a month in advance. Tuesdays are the least expensive nights to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilize Expedia for last-minute deals and package savings on hotels, flights, and activities. For transportation, consider the local bus system or explore on foot, as Chinatown is easily walkable, helping you keep costs down during your visit.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Chinatown are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Chinatown about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Chinatown is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Chinatown is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable rates and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Chinatown with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.