Chinatown Storytelling Centre
Explore the stories of one of Vancouver's first neighbourhoods, located a 10-minute walk from Downtown.
Over 150 stories, 8 immersive exhibits, and a theatre space await you in the heart of Chinatown. The award-winning Chinatown Storytelling Centre is one of Vancouver's newest attractions and Canada's only permanent exhibit space dedicated to sharing the stories of the Chinese Canadian community. Journey through the stories of the railway workers who helped connect the country, Chinatown's renowned nightlife in the 1950s to 1980s, and the contemporary barrier breakers who redefined the Canadian identity, and many more.
An unforgettable experience for the entire family, listen to the stories of Vancouver past in our pagoda phone booth, snap a photo in our recreated early-20th-century studio, and follow along the etiquette of a traditional Chinese banquet at our projection installation. Guests can also experience the vibrant sights and sounds of Chinatown throughout different eras in our augmented reality app.
Featured Exhibits
Raised in Chinatown special exhibit: Raised in Chinatown delves into the stories of youths forging their own identities as Chinese Canadians from the 1910s to 1960s. Scouts, martial arts, drill team, sports, church, lion dance, choir—these activities are a reminder that while it was their parents who crossed an ocean, these youths pioneered what it means to be Canadian.
Yucho Chow Photography Studio: Chinatown's first and most prolific commercial photographer, Yucho Chow captured hundreds of portraits from 1906 - 1949. In our recreated studio, you can find vintage portraits of families and individuals that reflect Vancouver's diversity. Guests can have their own portrait taken with art-deco inspired frames and send it to family and friends as a virtual postcard.
Theatre: Delve into the heart and soul of Vancouver's Chinatown in our theatre space. Hear the stories of the teenage Wong Brothers who built and flew a single-wing plane, a Cantonese opera singer, and more. Our films feature both contemporary Canadian artists and archival footage alike. We are grateful to have received the Vancouver Heritage Foundation Yosef Wosk Publication Grant to produce two of the films on display.
Don’t forget to visit our Foo Hung Curios gift shop, featured in Vancouver Magazine. Foo Hung Curios celebrates Asian Canadian heritage and highlights brands that bring a contemporary take on East meets West.
Please allow for 45 minutes to 1 hour for your visit.
More information: chinatownstorytellingcentre.org
The Chinatown Storytelling Centre was the proud recipient of the Award of Merit: Community Engagement by the BC Museums Association in 2021 and of the Chinese Canadian Historical Society of BC Larry Wong Prize in 2023.
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Directions
We are located at the intersection of Main and East Pender Streets.
By Transit
SkyTrain: The Storytelling Centre is a 10-minute walk away from Stadium-Chinatown Station and Main Street-Science World Station.
Bus: The 19, 22, 3, and 8 buses stop at the intersection of Pender and Main St.
Parking
While the Chinatown Storytelling Centre does not offer on-site parking, there is an EasyPark parking complex less than a three-minute walk away located in Chinatown Plaza at 106 Keefer Street. Metered street parking is also available. As metered street parking is limited, please allow for additional time if you require it.
Walking from Downtown
You can walk directly down Pender Street going East, and you will reach the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
Hours and Dates of Operation
Friday to Monday | 11 am to 4 pm*
*Hours subject to change – visit chinatownstorytellingcentre.org/visit for the current operational schedule
Contact:
Phone: 604.255.0055
Website: chinatownstorytellingcentre.org
Email: storytellingcentre@chinatownfoundation.org
Address: 168 East Pender Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3