Nestled along British Columbia’s Pacific Coast, Richmond is a vibrant city within the Greater Vancouver region, renowned for its diverse culture, stunning natural landscapes, and world-class culinary scene—especially its exceptional Asian cuisine, which ranks among the best in North America. Composed of a network of islands, Richmond offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking history, nature, food, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a family looking for entertainment, Richmond has something to captivate every type of visitor. This guide will take you through the top tourist attractions in Richmond, BC, detailing each spot’s unique features, must-do activities, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

1. Steveston Village: Richmond’s Historic Fishing Haven

Overview of Steveston Village

Steveston Village stands as Richmond’s most iconic and beloved attraction, often referred to as “Greater Vancouver’s Fisherman’s Wharf.” With a history dating back to the late 19th century, this picturesque fishing village has preserved its maritime heritage while evolving into a lively destination for tourists and locals alike. Unlike the hustle and bustle of big cities, Steveston exudes a laid-back, coastal vibe, where colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of saltwater and seafood.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Explore the Fishing Harbor: The heart of Steveston Village is its bustling harbor, where you can watch local fishermen unload their daily catch—especially during the summer months when salmon and other seafood are in season. The vibrant red, blue, and yellow fishing boats create a postcard-perfect backdrop, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Take a leisurely stroll along the docks, chat with fishermen about their work, or simply sit on a bench and soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.
• Savor Fresh Seafood: No visit to Steveston is complete without indulging in its famous seafood. Head to local institutions like Pajo’s Fish & Chips, a family-owned spot that has been serving crispy, golden-brown fish and chips since 1981, using only the freshest, locally sourced fish. Another popular choice is Cannery Cafe, located within the Britannia Heritage Shipyard, where you can enjoy seafood chowder, grilled salmon, and other coastal favorites while overlooking the harbor.
• Dive into History at Local Museums: Steveston is steeped in history, and two museums offer a fascinating glimpse into its past. The Steveston Museum, housed in a historic 1912 building, showcases exhibits on the village’s fishing industry, Indigenous culture, and early immigrant communities. The Britannia Heritage Shipyard, a National Historic Site, features restored fishing boats, cannery buildings, and interactive displays that tell the story of Steveston’s role as a major salmon canning center in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
• Shop for Unique Souvenirs: The main street of Steveston Village is lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. From handcrafted jewelry and local artwork to gourmet seafood products and vintage finds, you’ll find plenty of one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home. Don’t miss the Steveston Trading Post, which sells a variety of Canadian-themed gifts, or the Sweet Obsessions Candy Shop, where you can stock up on retro candies and homemade fudge.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Steveston Village is suitable for all ages and interests, making it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. Plan to spend half a day to a full day here to fully explore the harbor, museums, and shops. The village is easily accessible by public transit—take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Richmond-Brighouse Station, then transfer to bus route 401 or 410. If you’re driving, there is ample street parking available, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons (summer and weekends). Visit in the morning to avoid crowds, or in the evening to catch a beautiful sunset over the harbor.

2. Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site: A Window into BC’s Canning Industry

Overview of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery

Located within Steveston Village, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is a living testament to British Columbia’s rich fishing and canning heritage. Built in 1894, this restored salmon cannery is the only remaining intact cannery of its kind on Canada’s West Coast, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a 19th-century cannery. Designated a National Historic Site in 1976, the cannery has been carefully preserved to showcase the technology, labor, and culture that shaped BC’s fishing industry.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Take a Guided Tour: The best way to experience the Gulf of Georgia Cannery is through a guided tour, led by knowledgeable interpreters who bring the cannery’s history to life. During the tour, you’ll explore the cannery’s production floors, where massive machines—including can fillers, sealers, and labelers—are still in working order. Interpreters will demonstrate how these machines were used to process salmon, from cleaning and gutting to canning and packaging, giving you a firsthand look at the labor-intensive process that once employed thousands of workers.
• Explore Restored Buildings & Exhibits: The cannery complex includes several restored buildings, each with its own unique exhibits. The Main Cannery Building houses the production lines and exhibits on the technology and innovation of canning, while the Net Loft showcases the tools and techniques used to make and repair fishing nets. The Worker’s Bunkhouse offers a glimpse into the living conditions of the cannery’s workers, many of whom were immigrants from China, Japan, and Europe. You’ll also find exhibits on the Indigenous communities that have fished the Fraser River for millennia, highlighting their role in the region’s fishing industry.
• Learn About Labor History & Cultural Diversity: The Gulf of Georgia Cannery is not just a museum of technology—it’s also a museum of people. During your visit, you’ll learn about the diverse workforce that powered the cannery, from Indigenous fishers to Chinese cannery workers, Japanese fishermen, and European managers. You’ll hear stories of hard work, discrimination, and resilience, and gain a deeper understanding of how these communities contributed to Richmond’s and BC’s cultural fabric.
• Attend Special Events & Workshops: Throughout the year, the cannery hosts a variety of special events and workshops, including heritage fishing demonstrations, canning workshops, and cultural festivals. During the summer, you can watch traditional salmon smoking demonstrations, and in the fall, you can attend the Steveston Salmon Festival, which celebrates the region’s salmon heritage with parades, food, and live music.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery is a must-visit for history lovers, especially those interested in industrial history, labor history, and Canadian immigration. It’s also a great educational destination for families with children, as the interactive exhibits and guided tours make history fun and engaging. The cannery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission fees apply (adults: CAD 15, seniors: CAD 12, children under 12: free), and guided tours are included in the admission price. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the cannery has wooden floors and uneven surfaces. Combine your visit to the cannery with a trip to Steveston Village for a full day of history, food, and fun.

3. Richmond Night Market: North America’s Premier Summer Night Destination

Overview of the Richmond Night Market

Every summer, from May to October, the Richmond Night Market transforms into the largest and most popular night market in North America, drawing over a million visitors each season. Located at the Richmond Olympic Oval Plaza, the market features hundreds of food stalls, retail vendors, and entertainment options, creating a vibrant, bustling atmosphere that celebrates Asian culture and cuisine. Whether you’re craving authentic street food, looking for unique shopping finds, or wanting to enjoy live music and games, the Richmond Night Market has something for everyone.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Indulge in Global & Asian Street Food: The star of the Richmond Night Market is its food scene, with over 200 stalls serving up a mouthwatering array of dishes from around the world—with a focus on Asian cuisine. From classic Taiwanese dishes like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea to Japanese takoyaki (octopus balls), Korean tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and Chinese dumplings, there’s no shortage of delicious options to try. Don’t miss the market’s signature dishes, like the “ tornado potato” (a spiral-cut potato on a stick, fried and seasoned), “rainbow toast” (toast filled with colorful sweet fillings), and “BBQ squid” (grilled squid marinated in a savory sauce). Be sure to come with an empty stomach—you’ll want to sample as many dishes as possible!
• Shop for Unique Finds: In addition to food, the Richmond Night Market is home to over 100 retail vendors selling a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, home decor, and handmade crafts. You’ll find everything from trendy Korean streetwear and Japanese anime merchandise to Chinese calligraphy art and Vietnamese silk scarves. Many vendors offer one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in regular stores, making the market a great place to shop for souvenirs or gifts.
• Enjoy Live Entertainment & Games: The market’s central stage hosts a variety of live performances throughout the summer, including traditional Asian dance shows, K-pop and C-pop concerts, magic shows, and martial arts demonstrations. There are also plenty of fun activities for kids and families, including carnival games (like ring toss and balloon darts), a mini Ferris wheel, and a bouncy castle. For adults, there are beer gardens where you can enjoy a cold drink while listening to live music.
• Experience Cultural Festivals: The Richmond Night Market often partners with local cultural organizations to host themed events and festivals, such as the Taiwanese Lantern Festival, the Korean Chuseok Festival, and the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. These events feature special food, performances, and activities that highlight the traditions and customs of different Asian cultures, giving visitors a chance to learn and celebrate.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The Richmond Night Market is open on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM, with extended hours on holidays. Admission fees are CAD 6 for adults, CAD 4 for seniors and students, and free for children under 10. It’s important to note that the market can get very busy, especially on weekends and during peak summer months, so be prepared for long lines at popular food stalls. Cash is widely accepted at most vendors, but some also accept credit cards—bring both to be safe. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and consider bringing a reusable bag to carry your shopping finds and food. Arrive early (around 6:00 PM) to avoid the biggest crowds, or come later (around 9:00 PM) when the lines start to die down.

4. BC Aviation Museum: A Tribute to Richmond’s Aviation Heritage

Overview of the BC Aviation Museum

Located just a short drive from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), the BC Aviation Museum is a hidden gem for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. Housed in a historic World War II-era hangar, the museum showcases a vast collection of vintage aircraft, aviation artifacts, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of aviation in British Columbia and Canada. Richmond has a long history as an aviation hub—YVR is one of Canada’s busiest airports—and the BC Aviation Museum pays homage to this legacy, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in planes, history, or technology.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Explore Vintage Aircraft Collections: The museum’s main attraction is its collection of over 25 historic aircraft, ranging from early 20th-century biplanes to modern jet fighters. Highlights include the Canadian Vickers Vedette, a 1920s seaplane that was used for forest fire patrols and search-and-rescue missions; the Supermarine Spitfire, a World War II fighter plane that played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain; and the Canadair CF-104 Starfighter, a Cold War-era jet fighter that was used by the Royal Canadian Air Force. Many of the aircraft are in working condition, and the museum occasionally hosts fly-ins and air shows where visitors can see them take to the skies.
• Interactive Exhibits & Simulators: The BC Aviation Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience aviation firsthand. The museum’s flight simulators let you take the controls of a variety of aircraft, from a small Cessna to a commercial airliner, and practice takeoffs, landings, and in-flight maneuvers. There’s also an interactive exhibit on aerodynamics, where you can learn about how planes fly by experimenting with wind tunnels and model aircraft. For kids, there’s a “Junior Pilot” area with toy planes, flight suits, and a mock cockpit where they can pretend to be pilots.
• Learn About Aviation History & Innovation: The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of aviation in BC to the latest advancements in aerospace technology. You’ll learn about the first flights in BC, the role of aviation in World War II and the Cold War, and the development of YVR as a major international airport. There are also exhibits on famous Canadian aviators, such as bush pilot Grant McConachie and astronaut Roberta Bondar, highlighting their contributions to aviation history.
• Enjoy Airport Viewing: One of the unique features of the BC Aviation Museum is its location near YVR, which offers visitors a front-row seat to watch commercial aircraft take off and land. The museum has a designated viewing area outside the hangar, where you can set up a chair or blanket and watch planes from airlines around the world. It’s a popular spot for aviation photographers, who come to capture shots of rare and exotic aircraft. The museum also offers “Plane Spotting 101” workshops, where experts teach visitors how to identify different types of planes and take great photos.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The BC Aviation Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission fees are CAD 12 for adults, CAD 10 for seniors, CAD 8 for students, and free for children under 6. The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there is free parking available on-site. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more, and advance booking is recommended. If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to check out the “Junior Pilot” area and the flight simulators—they’re sure to be a hit. Combine your visit to the museum with a trip to YVR’s observation deck for even more plane-watching fun.

5. Richmond Olympic Oval: A Legacy of World-Class Sports & Recreation

Overview of the Richmond Olympic Oval

Built for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, the Richmond Olympic Oval is a world-renowned sports facility that has become a beloved community hub for recreation, fitness, and sports events. The oval’s iconic design—featuring a sweeping wooden roof that resembles a wave—has made it one of Richmond’s most recognizable landmarks. During the Olympics, the oval hosted speed skating events, where athletes from around the world set 10 world records. Today, the oval is open to the public, offering a wide range of activities for all ages and skill levels, from ice skating and hockey to yoga and rock climbing.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Skate on a World-Class Ice Rink: The main attraction of the Richmond Olympic Oval is its Olympic-sized ice rink, which is open to the public for recreational skating, speed skating, and hockey. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, you’ll love gliding across the same ice that was used by Olympic athletes. The oval offers public skating sessions throughout the week, and ice skate rentals are available for a small fee. For those interested in speed skating, the oval offers lessons and training programs, as well as access to speed skating equipment.
• Take a Guided Tour: To learn more about the Richmond Olympic Oval’s history, design, and Olympic legacy, take a guided tour of the facility. During the tour, you’ll visit the ice rink, the athlete’s locker rooms, the media center, and the oval’s rooftop garden, which offers stunning views of Richmond and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also learn about the oval’s sustainable design features, such as its use of wood from sustainably harvested forests and its rainwater collection system. Guided tours are available daily, and advance booking is recommended.
• Enjoy Fitness & Recreation Activities: The Richmond Olympic Oval is more than just an ice rink—it’s a full-service fitness center with a variety of facilities and programs. The oval’s fitness center features state-of-the-art cardio and weight equipment, as well as group fitness classes like yoga, Pilates, and spin. There’s also a rock climbing wall, a indoor running track, and a pool (open seasonally). For kids, the oval offers a variety of programs, including summer camps, sports clinics, and a “Kids Zone” with games and activities.
• Attend Sports Events & Concerts: Throughout the year, the Richmond Olympic Oval hosts a variety of sports events, including ice hockey tournaments, speed skating competitions, and figure skating shows. The oval also hosts concerts, trade shows, and community events, such as the Richmond Summer Fair and the Christmas Craft Market. Check the oval’s website for a calendar of upcoming events—you might be able to catch a world-class sports event or a live concert during your visit.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The Richmond Olympic Oval is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with hours varying slightly on weekends and holidays. Public skating sessions cost CAD 8 for adults, CAD 6 for seniors and students, and CAD 4 for children under 12, plus CAD 4 for skate rentals. The fitness center and other facilities have separate membership fees, but day passes are available for non-members. The oval is easily accessible by public transit—take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Richmond-Brighouse Station, then transfer to bus route 407 or 415. There is ample parking available on-site, including free parking for the first 3 hours. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring a water bottle—you’ll need it if you’re planning to work out or skate for a long time.

6. Richmond Dyke Trails: Scenic Coastal Walks & Wildlife Watching

Overview of the Richmond Dyke Trails

Richmond’s Dyke Trails are a network of scenic coastal paths that wind along the city’s waterfront, offering stunning views of the Fraser River, the Gulf of Georgia, and the surrounding mountains. The trails are part of Richmond’s extensive park system, which includes over 1,000 hectares of parks and green spaces. The dykes were originally built to protect Richmond’s low-lying land from flooding, but today they are a popular destination for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and nature lovers. With their flat, well-maintained surfaces and beautiful scenery, the Dyke Trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or an active outdoor adventure.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Walk, Jog, or Cycle Along the Trails: The Richmond Dyke Trails cover over 30 kilometers of coastal paths, with the most popular sections being the West Dyke Trail, the South Dyke Trail, and the East Dyke Trail. The West Dyke Trail, which runs from Steveston Village to Terra Nova Rural Park, offers the best views of the Gulf of Georgia and the Olympic Mountains. The South Dyke Trail, which runs along the Fraser River, is a great spot for watching boats and wildlife. The East Dyke Trail, which connects to Vancouver’s Stanley Park, is popular with cyclists and long-distance walkers. The trails are flat and accessible for all skill levels, making them ideal for families with strollers or people with mobility issues.
• Watch Wildlife: The Richmond Dyke Trails are a haven for wildlife, especially birds. The surrounding wetlands and mudflats are home to over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles, great blue herons, Canada geese, and sandpipers. During the winter months, you can also spot snow geese and trumpeter swans, which migrate to the area to escape the cold. The trails are also home to other wildlife, such as beavers, otters, and seals, which can often be seen swimming in the river or sunning themselves on the banks. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars—you never know what you might see!
• Enjoy Scenic Views & Sunsets: One of the best things about the Richmond Dyke Trails is the stunning scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass by lush wetlands, tidal mudflats, and charming fishing villages, with views of the mountains and the ocean in the distance. The trails are also a great spot to watch the sunset—during the summer months, the sun sets over the Gulf of Georgia, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple. Pack a picnic and find a spot on the dyke to enjoy the sunset with family or friends.
• Explore Nearby Parks & Attractions: The Richmond Dyke Trails connect to several of Richmond’s top parks and attractions, making it easy to combine a walk or cycle with a visit to other spots. The West Dyke Trail ends at Terra Nova Rural Park, a 200-hectare park with farmland, forests, and a visitor center. The South Dyke Trail passes by the Richmond Nature Park, a 152-hectare park with trails through bog and forest ecosystems. The East Dyke Trail connects to Vancouver’s Stanley Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks, which is home to beaches, forests, and the Vancouver Aquarium.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The Richmond Dyke Trails are open year-round, and there is no admission fee. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active. During the summer months, the trails can get busy, so try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. The trails are well-marked, but it’s a good idea to bring a map or download a trail app to avoid getting lost. Wear comfortable walking or cycling shoes, and dress in layers—weather in Richmond can be unpredictable, especially near the water. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, and don’t forget your binoculars if you’re interested in wildlife watching. If you’re cycling, you can rent bikes from several shops in Steveston Village or Richmond’s city center.

7. Tien Tan Buddhist Temple: A Serene Oasis of Eastern Culture

Overview of Tien Tan Buddhist Temple

Located in the heart of Richmond, Tien Tan Buddhist Temple is one of the largest and most beautiful Buddhist temples in North America. Built in 1981, the temple combines traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Indian architectural styles, creating a unique and stunning structure that stands out among Richmond’s modern buildings. The temple’s name, “Tien Tan,” translates to “Heavenly Altar,” and it serves as a place of worship, meditation, and cultural education for Richmond’s Buddhist community and visitors from around the world. Even if you’re not Buddhist, Tien Tan Buddhist Temple is a peaceful and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into Eastern culture and spirituality.

Key Features & Must-Do Activities

• Admire the Temple’s Architecture: The first thing you’ll notice about Tien Tan Buddhist Temple is its stunning architecture. The temple’s main hall features a traditional Chinese roof with curved eaves and intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures. The exterior walls are adorned with colorful murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures, and the entrance is guarded by two large stone lions, which symbolize protection and strength. Inside the main hall, you’ll find a massive golden Buddha statue, which stands over 10 meters tall and is surrounded by smaller statues of Bodhisattvas and other Buddhist figures. The hall’s ceiling is decorated with beautiful paintings of lotus flowers and celestial beings, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.
• Explore the Temple Grounds & Gardens: The Tien Tan Buddhist Temple’s grounds are just as beautiful as its buildings, with lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and winding paths. The temple’s Japanese-style rock garden is a favorite spot for meditation, with its carefully arranged stones and raked gravel representing mountains and rivers. The Chinese-style garden features a pond filled with lotus flowers and goldfish, as well as a small bridge and a pavilion where you can sit and relax. The temple also has a vegetarian garden, where monks grow vegetables and herbs for the temple’s kitchen.
• Attend a Meditation Session or Cultural Event: Tien Tan Buddhist Temple offers a variety of programs and events for visitors, including meditation sessions, Buddhist lectures, and cultural workshops. The temple’s meditation sessions are open to people of all faiths and experience levels, and they are led by experienced monks who teach basic meditation techniques. The temple also hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as the Chinese New Year celebration, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the Buddha’s Birthday. These events feature traditional music, dance, food, and rituals, giving visitors a chance to learn about Buddhist culture and traditions.
• Learn About Buddhist Philosophy & Practices: The temple’s visitor center has a variety of exhibits and resources that explain Buddhist philosophy, practices, and history. You can read books and pamphlets about Buddhism, watch videos about the temple’s history, and talk to monks or volunteers who are happy to answer your questions. The temple also offers guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the temple’s architecture, art, and significance.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Tien Tan Buddhist Temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there is no admission fee. Visitors are asked to dress respectfully—avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. When entering the main hall, you’ll need to remove your shoes, and photography is not allowed inside the hall (though you can take photos of the exterior and grounds). The temple is easily accessible by public transit—take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Lansdowne Station, then transfer to bus route 401 or 407. There is free parking available on-site. If you’re planning to attend a meditation session or cultural event, check the temple’s website for a schedule in advance. Remember to be quiet and respectful while visiting the temple, as it is a place of worship.

8. Richmond Shopping & Dining: Exploring the City’s Asian-Influenced Culinary & Retail Scene

Overview of Richmond’s Shopping & Dining

While not traditional “tourist attractions,” Richmond’s shopping centers and dining districts are an integral part of the city’s charm, offering visitors a chance to experience its vibrant Asian culture through food and retail. Richmond is home to a large Asian community, and this is reflected in its many Asian-style malls, markets, and restaurants. From authentic dim sum and Sichuan cuisine to Korean BBQ and Japanese sushi, Richmond’s dining scene is second to none, and its shopping centers offer a unique blend of Asian and Western products. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample the best of Asian cuisine or a shopper looking for unique finds, Richmond’s shopping and dining districts are not to be missed.

Key Shopping Destinations

• Aberdeen Centre: Located in the heart of Richmond’s Asian district, Aberdeen Centre is one of the city’s most popular shopping malls, featuring over 100 stores and services. The mall’s design is inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, with a large atrium decorated with lanterns and a fountain. You’ll find a variety of Asian-themed stores, including clothing boutiques selling Korean and Japanese streetwear, electronics stores offering the latest gadgets from Asia, and souvenir shops selling Chinese calligraphy, jade jewelry, and other traditional crafts. The mall also has a large food court, which serves up authentic Asian dishes like dim sum, noodles, and bubble tea.
• Richmond Centre: As Richmond’s largest shopping mall, Richmond Centre offers a more traditional Western shopping experience, with over 200 stores, including major retailers like Hudson’s Bay, Sears, and Zara. The mall also has a significant Asian presence, with stores selling Asian beauty products, groceries, and clothing. The mall’s food court features a mix of Western and Asian cuisine, with options ranging from burgers and pizza to sushi and Thai curry. Richmond Centre is a great place to shop for everyday items or to find international brands that you might not find elsewhere.
• Parker Place: Parker Place is a smaller, more intimate shopping mall that is known for its authentic Asian market and food court. The mall’s ground floor is home to a bustling market, where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, meat, and Asian groceries, such as soy sauce, rice noodles, and kimchi. The food court on the second floor is a favorite among locals, serving up some of the best dim sum, congee, and Chinese pastries in Richmond. Parker Place is also home to several small shops selling Asian clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Key Dining Destinations

• Dim Sum Restaurants: Richmond is famous for its dim sum, and there are dozens of restaurants serving up this popular Cantonese cuisine. Some of the best dim sum spots in Richmond include Sun Sui Wah Seafood Restaurant, which is known for its har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings); Fisherman’s Terrace Seafood Restaurant, which offers a wide variety of dim sum dishes and fresh seafood; and New Town Seafood Restaurant, which is a favorite among locals for its affordable prices and delicious food.
• Asian Street Food: In addition to its restaurants, Richmond is home to several Asian street food markets and food trucks, where you can sample authentic street food from around Asia. The Richmond Night Market (mentioned earlier) is the best place to find Asian street food, but you can also find food trucks serving up dishes like Korean tacos, Japanese takoyaki, and Taiwanese popcorn chicken in parking lots and plazas throughout the city.
• Fine Asian Cuisine: For a more upscale dining experience, Richmond has several fine Asian restaurants that offer gourmet dishes from Japan, Korea, China, and Thailand. Sushi Hachi is a popular Japanese restaurant that serves up fresh sushi and sashimi, as well as creative rolls like the “Richmond Roll” (filled with salmon, avocado, and tempura shrimp). Koreana Restaurant is a favorite for Korean BBQ, where you can grill your own meat at the table and enjoy side dishes like kimchi and japchae (glass noodles). For Sichuan cuisine, head to Szechuan House, which serves up spicy dishes like mapo tofu and kung pao chicken.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Richmond’s shopping and dining districts are concentrated in the area around Aberdeen Centre and Richmond Centre, which is easily accessible by public transit—take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Aberdeen Station or Richmond-Brighouse Station. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but some smaller establishments may only accept cash—bring both to be safe. If you’re dining at a dim sum restaurant, it’s best to arrive early (before 11:00 AM) to avoid long waits. When shopping at Asian malls, be prepared to bargain at some of the smaller shops—especially for clothing and accessories. Don’t be afraid to try new foods—Richmond’s dining scene is all about experimentation, and you might discover a new favorite dish!

Conclusion: Planning Your Perfect Trip to Richmond, BC

Richmond, BC, is a city that offers something for every traveler, from historic fishing villages and world-class museums to scenic coastal trails and mouthwatering Asian cuisine. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or a week, you’ll be amazed by the city’s diversity, charm, and beauty. To make the most of your trip, consider the following tips:

• Plan Your Itinerary: Richmond’s top attractions are spread out across the city, so it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance. Combine visits to nearby attractions—for example, spend a day in Steveston Village exploring the harbor and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, then head to the Richmond Night Market in the evening. Dedicate a day to outdoor activities, such as walking or cycling along the Dyke Trails, and another day to shopping and dining in Richmond’s Asian district.
• Use Public Transit: Richmond has an excellent public transit system, with the Canada Line SkyTrain connecting the city to Vancouver and the rest of the Greater Vancouver region. The SkyTrain is fast, reliable, and affordable, and it’s a great way to avoid traffic and parking fees. You can also take buses to reach attractions that are not near SkyTrain stations.
• Try the Food: Richmond is known for its exceptional Asian cuisine, so be sure to leave plenty of time to sample the local dishes. From dim sum and sushi to street food and fine dining, there’s no shortage of delicious options to try. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Richmond Night Market, where you can taste a wide variety of Asian street food in one place.
• Check the Weather: Richmond’s weather is mild and rainy in the winter, and warm and sunny in the summer. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly—bring a rain jacket and umbrella in the winter, and sunscreen and a hat in the summer.
• Respect Local Culture: Richmond has a large and diverse community, including a significant Asian population. Be respectful of local customs and traditions—for example, dress appropriately when visiting Tien Tan Buddhist Temple, and be quiet and polite when dining in Asian restaurants.

With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Richmond, BC, is a destination that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Steveston Village, watching planes take off from YVR at the BC Aviation Museum, or savoring dim sum in Richmond’s Chinatown, you’ll find that Richmond is a city that welcomes visitors with open arms. Start planning your trip today, and get ready to experience all that this amazing city has to offer!