Gate of Harmonious Interest and Chinatown, Victoria
The Gate of Harmonious Interest is not only a cultural symbol but also a magnificent gateway to Victoria's Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and second only to San Francisco's in North America. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, when a mass influx of miners arrived from California to what is now British Columbia.
The gate was erected in 1981 to celebrate the revitalization of Chinatown by the City of Victoria and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, with participation from both Chinese and non-Chinese communities. It stands as a shining emblem of unity and harmony, reflected in the two inscriptions: "To work together with one heart" and "To help each other achieve harmony."
The structure itself is a spectacular piece of architecture, adorned with elaborate red and gold decorations鈥攁 true feast for the eyes. Two hand-carved stone lions, gifted by Victoria's twin city, Suzhou in China, stand guard on either side, adding a touch of grandeur. The outer red pillars each contain two time capsules, set to be opened in 2081 and 2096, providing a glimpse into the past for future generations.
A plaque engraved with the names of 61 Chinese Canadians who fought and died for Canada during World War II is also located at the site, honoring their sacrifices.
The ambiance of Victoria's Chinatown is vibrant, with alleys brimming with unique boutique shops. From vegan cork purses to specialty soaps, these shops offer items that cannot be found elsewhere. Other stops include fresh produce, chocolate, bakeries, and metaphysical literature. The alleys themselves are charming, featuring exposed brick, vibrant colors, and impeccable cleanliness, creating a welcoming and atmospheric experience.
Tip:
Not all restaurants are great, so make sure you read some reviews before choosing where to eat.
The gate was erected in 1981 to celebrate the revitalization of Chinatown by the City of Victoria and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, with participation from both Chinese and non-Chinese communities. It stands as a shining emblem of unity and harmony, reflected in the two inscriptions: "To work together with one heart" and "To help each other achieve harmony."
The structure itself is a spectacular piece of architecture, adorned with elaborate red and gold decorations鈥攁 true feast for the eyes. Two hand-carved stone lions, gifted by Victoria's twin city, Suzhou in China, stand guard on either side, adding a touch of grandeur. The outer red pillars each contain two time capsules, set to be opened in 2081 and 2096, providing a glimpse into the past for future generations.
A plaque engraved with the names of 61 Chinese Canadians who fought and died for Canada during World War II is also located at the site, honoring their sacrifices.
The ambiance of Victoria's Chinatown is vibrant, with alleys brimming with unique boutique shops. From vegan cork purses to specialty soaps, these shops offer items that cannot be found elsewhere. Other stops include fresh produce, chocolate, bakeries, and metaphysical literature. The alleys themselves are charming, featuring exposed brick, vibrant colors, and impeccable cleanliness, creating a welcoming and atmospheric experience.
Tip:
Not all restaurants are great, so make sure you read some reviews before choosing where to eat.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Victoria. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Gate of Harmonious Interest and Chinatown on Map
Sight Name: Gate of Harmonious Interest and Chinatown
Sight Location: Victoria, Canada (See walking tours in Victoria)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Victoria, Canada (See walking tours in Victoria)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Victoria, British Columbia
Create Your Own Walk in Victoria
Creating your own self-guided walk in Victoria is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Victoria Introduction Walking Tour
Imagine a place so lush and welcoming that Sir James Douglas, who first surveyed the land in 1842 for the fort that would become Victoria, believed it was 鈥渄ropped straight from the clouds,鈥� a haven unlike the wild forests around it.
Victoria, the capital of the province of British Columbia, is one of Canada鈥檚 oldest cities鈥攚here British colonial heritage meets the natural beauty of the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Victoria, the capital of the province of British Columbia, is one of Canada鈥檚 oldest cities鈥攚here British colonial heritage meets the natural beauty of the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Victoria's Historical Buildings Walking Tour
They say, Victoria is a jewel of a city with its blend of timeless charm and grace, in which historic architecture coexists with a modern and vibrant cultural scene. Indeed, for a relatively young city, Victoria boasts a wealth of incredibly beautiful heritage sites carefully preserved for future generations to enjoy. The moment you cruise into the capital of British Columbia, you can feel a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.0 Km or 2.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.0 Km or 2.5 Miles