Richmond BC 7-day itinerary

Richmond, a vibrant city in British Columbia, Canada, is a hidden gem that blends Asian culture, natural beauty, and urban convenience. Located just a short distance from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), it serves as an ideal base for exploring the Lower Mainland. This 7-day itinerary is specifically designed for travelers from the Americas and other regions, offering a balanced mix of cultural experiences, natural adventures, shopping sprees, and culinary delights. Every detail, from daily attraction sequences to accommodation and transportation tips, is crafted to ensure practicality and reference value, allowing you to make the most of your time in this unique city.

Essential Pre-Travel Information

Before embarking on your Richmond journey, having the right preparations in place is crucial to a smooth trip. Here’s all the key information you need to know.

Best Travel Time

The optimal period to visit Richmond is from May to September. During these summer months, the city enjoys mild temperatures, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C, with abundant sunshine. This pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking in wetlands, strolling along coastal parks, and exploring the famous Richmond Night Market. In contrast, the rainy season (October to April) brings frequent rainfall, and temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 10°C. While indoor attractions like shopping malls and museums remain accessible, outdoor plans may need to be adjusted, and it’s essential to pack waterproof jackets and warm layers.

Currency and Payment Methods

Canada’s official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash (around CAD 100-200) for small purchases, such as snacks at local markets or bus fares if you don’t have a Compass Card. ATMs are readily available in downtown Richmond, shopping malls, and near YVR Airport, allowing you to withdraw cash using international debit cards (note that some banks may charge foreign transaction fees).

Transportation Cards

For hassle-free travel around Richmond and the greater Vancouver area, the Compass Card is a must-have. This reusable smart card works on SkyTrain (Canada Line, which connects Richmond to Vancouver and YVR), buses, and the SeaBus. You can purchase a Compass Card at SkyTrain stations, YVR Airport, or select retail locations for CAD 6 (the card fee is non-refundable). For a 7-day trip, a Compass Card Weekly Pass (CAD 45) is highly cost-effective, offering unlimited travel on all covered transit services. Alternatively, you can use contactless credit or debit cards to tap and pay for individual rides, which is convenient if you prefer not to buy a separate card.

Communication

To stay connected during your trip, there are two main options: purchasing a local SIM card or enabling international roaming. Local carriers like Fido, Rogers, and Telus offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans. For example, Fido’s 7-day prepaid plan (CAD 40) includes 5GB of data, unlimited local calls, and text messages, which is sufficient for navigation, social media, and staying in touch with friends or family. You can buy these SIM cards at YVR Airport, downtown electronics stores, or carrier retail outlets. If you choose international roaming, contact your home mobile provider in advance to inquire about rates and activate the service—note that roaming fees can be expensive, so it’s best to check details beforehand.

Recommended Accommodation Areas

Choosing the right accommodation location can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here are two top areas in Richmond to consider:

Richmond City Centre: This area is ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience. It’s located near the Canada Line SkyTrain stations (such as Richmond-Brighouse Station), making it easy to access Vancouver, YVR Airport, and major attractions in Richmond. Popular hotels here include the River Rock Casino Resort (a luxury option with a casino, spa, and on-site restaurants) and the Holiday Inn Richmond Downtown (a mid-range choice with comfortable rooms and proximity to shopping malls). The city center also boasts a wide range of dining options, from Asian restaurants to Western cafes, and is within walking distance of Aberdeen Centre and Lansdowne Centre.

Steveston Village: For travelers seeking a quieter, more scenic setting, Steveston Village is the perfect choice. This historic fishing village is located along the Fraser River and offers a charming, small-town atmosphere. Accommodation options here include boutique inns and vacation rentals, such as the Steveston Hotel (a cozy, family-run hotel with views of the river) and Airbnb properties that provide a home-like experience. Staying in Steveston allows you to easily explore attractions like the Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf, Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, and local seafood restaurants—perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Richmond’s maritime history.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Acclimatization

After a long flight, your first day in Richmond will focus on settling in and getting a gentle introduction to the city.

Morning: Arrival and Check-In

Arrival at YVR Airport: Most international flights arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is just a 15-minute drive or SkyTrain ride from Richmond. Upon exiting the customs area, follow the signs to the Canada Line SkyTrain station (located in the International Terminal). If you have large luggage, you can use the luggage storage facilities at the airport (CAD 10-15 per bag per day) if you arrive before check-in time.

Transport to Richmond: Take the Canada Line SkyTrain from YVR Airport Station to Richmond. The most convenient stations for downtown Richmond are Richmond-Brighouse Station and Aberdeen Station. The one-way fare is approximately CAD 4.50, and the journey takes 15-20 minutes. If you have a lot of luggage, you can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber, Lyft) from the airport to Richmond, which costs around CAD 30-40.

Hotel Check-In: Check into your pre-booked hotel. Mid-range hotels in Richmond typically offer check-in times around 3:00 PM. If you arrive earlier, you can store your luggage at the hotel 前台 (front desk) and explore the surrounding area while waiting.

Afternoon: Explore Local Highlights

Richmond Night Market (Summer Only): If you’re visiting between May and September, the Richmond Night Market is a must-visit attraction. Open from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Fridays to Sundays) and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (weekdays), it’s North America’s largest night market, featuring over 200 food and retail stalls. Don’t miss trying popular Asian snacks like twisted potatoes (crispy potato spirals coated in seasoning), takoyaki (octopus balls with savory sauce), and bubble tea (milk tea with tapioca pearls). There are also game stalls where you can win prizes, making it a fun spot for both adults and children.

Fraser River Waterfront Trail: After exploring the night market, take a leisurely walk along the Fraser River Waterfront Trail. This scenic path runs along the banks of the Fraser River, offering stunning views of the river, distant mountains, and sunset. The trail is well-paved and suitable for walking or cycling (you can rent a bike from local shops like Spokes Bicycle Rentals for around CAD 25 per day). The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, as you can watch the sun set over the river—a truly breathtaking sight.

Dinner

Dining Options: For dinner, you can either eat at the night market (where there are plenty of food stalls to choose from) or head to a nearby Asian restaurant in downtown Richmond. A highly recommended spot is Tai Er Sour Cabbage Fish (located near Aberdeen Centre), which serves authentic Sichuan-style sour cabbage fish—spicy, tangy, and full of flavor. Another great option is Dinesty Dumpling House, a popular chain restaurant known for its juicy pork dumplings and Shanghai-style noodles. Most Asian restaurants in Richmond offer large portions, so you can share dishes with travel companions to try more flavors.

Transportation

Morning: Canada Line SkyTrain (from YVR Airport to Richmond) or taxi/ride-sharing service.

Afternoon/Evening: Walking (between the night market and waterfront trail) or bus (if you choose to dine at a restaurant further from the night market).

Day 2: Historic Fishing Village and Coastal Ecology

On Day 2, you’ll dive into Richmond’s maritime history and explore its beautiful coastal natural landscapes.

Morning: Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf and Britannia Shipyards

Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf: Start your day with a visit to Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling waterfront area that has been a hub of fishing activity for over a century. Here, you can watch local fishermen unload their daily catch (including salmon, crab, and shrimp) from colorful fishing boats. Many stalls sell fresh seafood, and you can even buy live crab or shrimp to cook at your accommodation (if you have a kitchen). A must-try here is fish and chips from Pajo’s Fish and Chips, a iconic local spot that has been serving crispy, golden fish and chips since 1981. The fish is fresh-caught daily, and the chips are made from local potatoes—perfect for a casual morning meal.

Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site: Next, visit the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, a National Historic Site of Canada that showcases Richmond’s shipbuilding heritage. The site features a collection of historic buildings, including a shipyard office, a machine shop, and a net loft, which have been restored to their original 19th-century appearance. Guided tours (free of charge) are available, and you can learn about the role of Chinese and Japanese shipbuilders in Richmond’s history. There’s also a small museum with exhibits on fishing and shipbuilding tools, photographs, and personal stories of the workers who lived and worked here.

Afternoon: Garry Point Park and Steveston Museum

Garry Point Park: After lunch, head to Garry Point Park, a 75-acre coastal park located at the southern tip of Steveston. The park offers panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia, the Gulf Islands, and the distant Olympic Mountains in Washington State. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a walk along the beach. Keep an eye out for wildlife—you may spot seabirds like seagulls and cormorants, and even sea lions swimming in the strait during the summer months. The park also has a playground for children, making it a family-friendly destination.

Steveston Museum: Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Steveston Museum, a small but informative museum that tells the story of Steveston’s evolution from a small fishing village to a thriving community. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the early 20th century, such as fishing gear, clothing, and household items, as well as photographs and maps that show how the village has changed over time. There’s also a section dedicated to the Japanese Canadian community, which played a significant role in Steveston’s history. Admission to the museum is free, and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Dinner

Shady Island Seafood Restaurant: For dinner, enjoy fresh seafood at Shady Island Seafood Restaurant, a popular spot in Steveston that has been serving locals and tourists for over 30 years. The restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes, including grilled salmon, lobster rolls, and clam chowder. The salmon here is particularly delicious—freshly caught from the Fraser River and grilled to perfection with herbs and lemon. The restaurant has a waterfront patio, so you can dine while enjoying views of the river and fishing boats.

Transportation

Morning/Afternoon: Take bus route 402 from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Steveston (the journey takes approximately 30 minutes). Alternatively, if you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car (international driver’s license required) from rental companies like Hertz or Budget at YVR Airport or downtown Richmond. Rental rates start at around CAD 50 per day.

Evening: Bus route 402 back to downtown Richmond or drive if you have a rental car.

Day 3: Cultural Fusion and Shopping Experience

Day 3 is all about exploring Richmond’s diverse culture and indulging in some retail therapy.

Morning: International Buddhist Temple and Richmond Olympic Oval

International Buddhist Temple: Start your morning with a visit to the International Buddhist Temple, the largest Chinese Buddhist temple in North America. Located in the heart of Richmond, the temple is modeled after the famous Temple of Heaven in Beijing and features intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and golden Buddha statues. The temple is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, and admission is free (donations are appreciated). If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhism, you can participate in the morning chanting session (held at 9:30 AM daily), but it’s recommended to book in advance by calling the temple. Remember to dress modestly (cover your shoulders and knees) and remove your shoes before entering the main prayer hall.

Richmond Olympic Oval (Optional): If you’re a sports enthusiast, consider a visit to the Richmond Olympic Oval, which was the venue for speed skating events during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Today, the oval is a public recreation center that offers a variety of activities, including ice skating, roller skating, and fitness classes. You can take a guided tour of the facility (CAD 10 per person) to learn about its history and architecture, or rent ice skates (CAD 15 per person) to skate on the same ice as Olympic athletes. The oval also has a café where you can grab a coffee or light snack.

Afternoon: Shopping at Aberdeen Centre and Times Square

Aberdeen Centre: Spend your afternoon shopping at Aberdeen Centre, Richmond’s premier Asian-themed shopping mall. The mall features over 100 stores, including fashion boutiques, electronics shops, and beauty salons. You’ll find a wide range of Asian brands, as well as popular international brands. Don’t miss the anime and manga stores (like Animate) where you can buy anime merchandise, comics, and figurines. The mall also has a food court on the third floor, offering a variety of Asian cuisines, from Japanese sushi to Korean bibimbap.

Times Square: After shopping at Aberdeen Centre, head to Times Square, a nearby shopping complex that specializes in Asian groceries, herbal medicines, and souvenirs. Here, you can buy high-quality ginseng (a popular Canadian souvenir), Chinese herbal teas, and traditional Asian snacks. There are also several stores selling Asian kitchenware and home decor, making it a great place to pick up unique gifts for friends and family back home.

Dinner

Aberdeen Centre Food Court: For dinner, return to the Aberdeen Centre food court and try Deer Garden Signatures, a popular chain restaurant known for its delicious fish soup noodles. The fish soup is made from fresh fish bones and simmered for hours, resulting in a rich, flavorful broth. You can choose from a variety of noodles (vermicelli, egg noodles, or rice noodles) and add toppings like fish balls, tofu, and vegetables. Another great option in the food court is Hokkaido Ramen Santouka, which serves authentic Japanese ramen with tender chashu pork and creamy tonkotsu broth.

Transportation

Morning/Afternoon/Evening: Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Aberdeen Station, which is located directly adjacent to Aberdeen Centre. Times Square is a 5-minute walk from Aberdeen Centre, so you can easily walk between the two.

Day 4: Natural Wetlands and City Panoramas

On Day 4, you’ll escape the city hustle and explore Richmond’s natural wetlands before heading to Vancouver for stunning city views.

Morning: Richmond Nature Park

Richmond Nature Park: Start your day with a visit to Richmond Nature Park, a 200-acre urban wetland that is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The park features four well-maintained hiking trails (ranging from 1.5 to 3 kilometers in length) that wind through marshes, forests, and meadows. The trails are boardwalk-style, making them accessible for all ages and fitness levels. As you hike, keep an eye out for birds like great blue herons, woodpeckers, and ducks, as well as small mammals like beavers and squirrels. The park also has a nature house with exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems, and knowledgeable staff are available to answer questions. Admission to the park is free, and it’s open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer months.

Picnic Breakfast: Pack a picnic breakfast from a local bakery (like Thomas Haas Bakery in downtown Richmond, which sells delicious pastries and sandwiches) and enjoy it at one of the park’s picnic areas. The peaceful surroundings and fresh air make for a perfect start to the day.

Afternoon: Vancouver Lookout and Granville Island (Optional)

Vancouver Lookout: After exploring the nature park, take the Canada Line SkyTrain from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Vancouver’s Waterfront Station (the journey takes approximately 25 minutes). From there, walk to the Vancouver Lookout, located at the top of the Harbour Centre Tower. The lookout offers 360-degree panoramic views of Vancouver, including the downtown skyline, Stanley Park, the Strait of Georgia, and the North Shore Mountains. You can take the glass elevator to the top (CAD 20 per adult), and there’s an observation deck where you can take photos and learn about the city’s landmarks through informative displays. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, as the light is perfect for photography.

Granville Island (Optional): If you have extra time, take a short bus ride (route 50) from Waterfront Station to Granville Island, a vibrant public market and arts district. The Granville Island Public Market is home to over 50 food vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, and seafood. You can also explore the many art galleries, craft shops, and theaters on the island, or take a boat tour of False Creek (CAD 30 per person) for a different perspective of Vancouver.

Dinner

Jiu Kuai Jiu Taiwanese Cuisine: Return to Richmond for dinner and try Jiu Kuai Jiu Taiwanese Cuisine, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Taiwanese dishes. The menu includes classics like beef noodle soup (tender beef in a rich broth with noodles), braised pork rice (slow-cooked pork over steamed rice), and stinky tofu (a pungent but delicious Taiwanese specialty). The restaurant has a casual, friendly atmosphere, and portions are generous—perfect for a satisfying meal after a day of exploring.

Transportation

Morning: Take bus route 401 from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Richmond Nature Park (the journey takes approximately 20 minutes).

Afternoon: Bus route 401 back to Richmond-Brighouse Station, then Canada Line SkyTrain to Vancouver’s Waterfront Station. Bus route 50 to Granville Island (if visiting).

Evening: Canada Line SkyTrain back to Richmond, then walking or bus to Jiu Kuai Jiu Taiwanese Cuisine.

Day 5: Aviation Culture and Family-Friendly Fun

Day 5 is designed for both aviation enthusiasts and families, with a mix of educational and entertaining activities.

Morning: Canadian Museum of Flight

Canadian Museum of Flight: Start your morning at the Canadian Museum of Flight, located at the Langley Regional Airport (approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Richmond). The museum is dedicated to preserving Canada’s aviation history and features a collection of over 25 vintage aircraft, including World War II fighters, civilian planes, and helicopters. You can get up close to the aircraft, read informative plaques about their history, and even sit in the cockpit of some planes (under staff supervision). The museum also offers flight simulator experiences (CAD 35 per person for 30 minutes), where you can try your hand at flying a plane in a realistic simulator. Admission to the museum is CAD 15 per adult and CAD 10 per child (ages 6-12), and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

Transport to the Museum: If you have a rental car, driving to the museum is the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can take bus route 501 from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Surrey Central Station, then transfer to bus route 321 to Langley Regional Airport (the total journey takes approximately 1 hour).

Afternoon: Mini Rainbowland and Lansdowne Centre

Mini Rainbowland: For families with young children, Mini Rainbowland is a must-visit. This indoor amusement park is located in the Lansdowne Centre shopping mall and features a variety of rides and activities, including a rainbow ball pit, a mini roller coaster, a carousel, and arcade games. The park is designed for children aged 2-12, and there’s a parent lounge where adults can relax while their kids play. Admission to Mini Rainbowland is CAD 15 per child (unlimited rides for 2 hours), and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekends.

Lansdowne Centre: After spending time at Mini Rainbowland, explore Lansdowne Centre, a large shopping mall with over 150 stores. The mall offers a mix of local Canadian brands (like Roots and Aritzia) and international brands, as well as a food court and several restaurants. It’s a great place to do some affordable shopping, pick up souvenirs, or take a break from the sun.

Dinner

Tan Lu BBQ Fish or Bai Zhen Lou Dim Sum: For dinner, choose between two popular restaurants in Richmond. Tan Lu BBQ Fish specializes in Sichuan-style grilled fish, with a variety of flavors (spicy, garlic, and lemon) to choose from. The fish is cooked in a hot pot with vegetables and spices, and you can add additional toppings like mushrooms and tofu. Bai Zhen Lou Dim Sum is a great option if you’re in the mood for Cantonese dim sum. The menu includes classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns). Both restaurants are located near Lansdowne Centre, making them easily accessible after shopping.

Transportation

Morning: Rental car or bus (routes 501 and 321) to the Canadian Museum of Flight.

Afternoon: Rental car or bus back to Richmond, then Canada Line SkyTrain to Lansdowne Station (located adjacent to Lansdowne Centre).

Evening: Walking or bus from Lansdowne Centre to the restaurant of your choice.

Day 6: Cross-Sea Adventure to Vancouver Island

On Day 6, you’ll take a day trip to Vancouver Island, one of Canada’s most beautiful destinations, to explore its stunning gardens and historic city center.

Morning: Travel to Vancouver Island

Ferry to Victoria: Start your day early by taking the Canada Line SkyTrain from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Vancouver’s Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (the journey takes approximately 45 minutes). From there, take a BC Ferries vessel to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal on Vancouver Island (the ferry ride takes 1 hour and 35 minutes). It’s important to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, as ferries can fill up quickly. You can book tickets online through the BC Ferries website (www.bcferries.com) or by phone. The round-trip fare for an adult is approximately CAD 50, and for a car (if you’re driving), it’s around CAD 100 (plus driver fare).

Transport to Butchart Gardens: After arriving at Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, take a bus (route 70) to Victoria’s downtown area (approximately 30 minutes), then transfer to bus route 75 to Butchart Gardens (another 30 minutes). Alternatively, if you’re driving, it’s a 45-minute drive from the ferry terminal to Butchart Gardens.

Afternoon: Butchart Gardens and Victoria Inner Harbour

Butchart Gardens: Butchart Gardens is one of the most famous gardens in the world, spanning 55 acres and featuring over a million plants. The gardens are divided into several sections, including the Sunken Garden (a former quarry filled with flowers), the Rose Garden (with over 2,500 rose bushes), and the Japanese Garden (with tranquil ponds and cherry blossoms). You can spend several hours exploring the gardens, taking photos, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also several cafes and a gift shop on-site. Admission to Butchart Gardens is CAD 35 per adult and CAD 17 per child (ages 5-12), and it’s open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM during the summer months.

Victoria Inner Harbour: After visiting Butchart Gardens, return to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, a historic waterfront area that is home to many of the city’s top attractions. Here, you can visit the British Columbia Parliament Buildings (free guided tours are available), watch street performers (including magicians, musicians, and acrobats), and take a horse-drawn carriage ride (CAD 40 per person for a 30-minute tour). The Inner Harbour also has a variety of restaurants and cafes, where you can grab a late lunch or snack.

Evening: Return to Richmond

Ferry Back to Mainland: Take the BC Ferries back to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (make sure to check the ferry schedule in advance to avoid missing the last ferry—typically around 9:00 PM in the summer). From the ferry terminal, take the Canada Line SkyTrain back to Richmond.

Dinner: For dinner, try Toro Japanese BBQ, a popular Japanese restaurant in downtown Richmond. The restaurant offers a variety of grilled meats, including wagyu beef, pork belly, and chicken, as well as sushi and sashimi. You can cook the meat yourself on a tabletop grill, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

Transportation

Morning: Canada Line SkyTrain to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, then BC Ferries to Vancouver Island. Bus (routes 70 and 75) or rental car to Butchart Gardens.

Afternoon: Bus or rental car to Victoria Inner Harbour.

Evening: BC Ferries back to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, then Canada Line SkyTrain to Richmond. Walking or bus to Toro Japanese BBQ.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Your final day in Richmond will be a relaxing one, with time to explore a beautiful beach park and do some last-minute shopping before heading to the airport.

Morning: Iona Beach Regional Park and McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

Iona Beach Regional Park: Start your morning with a visit to Iona Beach Regional Park, a 400-acre coastal park located at the western end of Richmond. The park features a 4-kilometer-long sandspit that stretches into the Strait of Georgia, offering stunning views of the North Shore Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride, and you can also swim or sunbathe on the beach (note that the water is cold, even in the summer). Keep an eye out for wildlife—you may spot seals, otters, and a variety of seabirds. The park is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer months, and admission is free.

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet: After exploring the park, head to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, a premium shopping center located near YVR Airport. The outlet features over 80 stores selling discounted designer brands, including Michael Kors, Coach, Armani Exchange, and Canada Goose (a popular Canadian brand known for its warm winter coats). It’s a great place to do some last-minute shopping and pick up designer souvenirs at a fraction of the regular price. The outlet also has a food court with a variety of dining options, including Tim Hortons (a Canadian coffee chain famous for its donuts and coffee).

Afternoon: Departure

Lunch: Have lunch at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet food court or at Tim Hortons (try their famous double-double coffee and Timbits donut holes).

Transport to YVR Airport: After lunch, take the Canada Line SkyTrain from Templeton Station (located near the outlet) to YVR Airport (the journey takes approximately 10 minutes). It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your international flight to allow time for check-in, security screening, and duty-free shopping. If you have a lot of luggage, you can use the luggage storage facilities at the airport or hire a porter to assist you.

Transportation

Morning: Take bus route 410 from Richmond-Brighouse Station to Iona Beach Regional Park (approximately 30 minutes). Bus route 410 back to Richmond, then Canada Line SkyTrain to Templeton Station (for McArthurGlen Designer Outlet).

Afternoon: Canada Line SkyTrain from Templeton Station to YVR Airport.

Important Travel Tips

To ensure your trip to Richmond is safe, smooth, and enjoyable, here are some important travel tips to keep in mind.

Visa and Documentation

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Travelers from most American countries (including the United States) and other visa-exempt countries are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling to Canada by air. The eTA is valid for up to 5 years and can be applied for online through the Government of Canada website (www.canada.ca) for a fee of CAD 7. The application process takes approximately 3 business days, but it’s recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.

Visa for Chinese Passport Holders: Travelers holding a Chinese passport are required to apply for a Canadian tourist visa before traveling. The visa application process involves submitting forms, supporting documents (such as proof of funds, travel itinerary, and employment letter), and attending an interview (if required). The processing time varies, but it typically takes 2-4 weeks. It’s important to apply well in advance of your trip.

Documentation to Carry: Always carry a copy of your passport, eTA/visa, travel insurance, and emergency contact information with you during your trip. It’s also a good idea to store digital copies of these documents in a secure cloud storage service (like Google Drive or Dropbox) in case your physical copies are lost or stolen.

Seasonal Adjustments

Summer (May-September): During the summer months, the weather is warm and sunny, but it can also be humid. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing (such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses), sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), a hat, and sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings.

Winter (October-April): Winter in Richmond is cold and rainy, with occasional snowfall. Pack warm, waterproof clothing (such as a waterproof jacket, pants, and boots), a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It’s also important to bring layers, as indoor spaces are typically heated. If you plan to visit mountain areas (like Whistler), pack heavy winter clothing (such as a down jacket and snow boots).

Transportation Tips

SkyTrain Tips: The Canada Line SkyTrain runs from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM on weekdays and 6:00 AM to 12:30 AM on weekends. During peak hours (7:00 AM-9:00 AM and 5:00 PM-7:00 PM), the SkyTrain can be crowded with commuters, so it’s best to avoid traveling during these times if possible. If you’re using a Compass Card, remember to tap in when you board and tap out when you exit to ensure you’re charged the correct fare.

Driving Tips: If you rent a car, remember that Canada drives on the right-hand side of the road (same as the United States). You must have a valid international driver’s license (in addition to your home country’s driver’s license) to rent a car in Canada. Be aware of speed limits—they are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h), and the maximum speed limit on highways is typically 100 km/h. It’s also important to wear a seatbelt at all times, and children under the age of 12 must ride in the back seat.

Dining Tips

Asian Cuisine Paradise: Richmond is known as North America’s “Asian food capital,” with a wide range of authentic Asian restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Cantonese dim sum, Sichuan hot pot, Japanese sushi, Korean BBQ, and Taiwanese beef noodle soup. Many restaurants offer lunch specials (from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM) that are more affordable than dinner menus.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions (such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free), be sure to inform the restaurant staff before ordering. Most restaurants in Richmond are familiar with common dietary restrictions and can accommodate your needs. It’s also a good idea to carry a card in English (and Chinese, if possible) that lists your allergies or restrictions to show to the staff.

Safety and Environmental Tips

Beach and Wetland Safety: When visiting coastal parks like Garry Point Park and Iona Beach Regional Park, be aware of tide times (you can check tide tables online or at local visitor centers). The tide can rise quickly, so avoid walking too far out on sandbars or rocks. When hiking in wetlands like Richmond Nature Park, wear insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.

Environmental Protection: Canada has strict environmental laws, and it’s important to follow them during your trip. Always dispose of trash in designated bins, and never litter in parks or natural areas. Richmond has a strict recycling program, so be sure to separate your trash into recycling (paper, plastic, glass) and garbage. Smoking is prohibited in all public places, including parks, beaches, and shopping malls.

Budget Reference (Per Person, CAD)

To help you plan your budget, here’s a breakdown of the approximate costs for a 7-day trip to Richmond:

Accommodation: Mid-range hotels in Richmond cost approximately CAD 150 per night. For a 6-night stay (since you’ll arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 7), the total cost is around CAD 900.

Food: Expect to spend around CAD 40 per day on food (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks). For 7 days, the total cost is approximately CAD 280.

Transportation: A Compass Card Weekly Pass costs CAD 45, and the round-trip ferry fare to Vancouver Island is CAD 50. If you rent a car for a few days, add approximately CAD 50-70 per day (including gas and insurance). The total transportation cost is around CAD 95 (without car rental) or CAD 200-300 (with car rental).

Attraction Tickets: The total cost for attraction tickets (including Vancouver Lookout, Canadian Museum of Flight, Butchart Gardens, and Mini Rainbowland) is approximately CAD 150.

Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes souvenirs, shopping, and travel insurance. Budget around CAD 200-300 for miscellaneous expenses.

Total Budget: Approximately CAD 1,425-1,825 per person (excluding international airfare).

Conclusion

Richmond, British Columbia, offers a unique travel experience that combines Asian culture, natural beauty, and urban convenience. This 7-day itinerary has been carefully designed to help you explore the best of the city, from historic fishing villages and beautiful wetlands to vibrant shopping malls and delicious Asian restaurants. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with family, there’s something for everyone in Richmond.