The Sun Yat Sen classical Chinese garden offers a serene respite in downtown Vancouver. The garden is open to the public and hosts special events complementing Chinese culture and holidays.
1. Background
Photograph of Dr Sun Yat-Sen Garden: Michele Falzone / Getty Images
Since 1981, the Dr Sun Yat Sen Garden Society has been a self-sustaining, not-for-profit organization seeking to "bridge understanding between Chinese and Western cultures, promote Chinese culture generally and be an integral part of the local community." The garden is named after the "Father of Modern China," Dr. Sun Yat Sen, recognized for his central role in the history of modern China where he sought to bring democrat rule in the early 20th century.
Like all classical Chinese gardens, Dr Sun Yat Sen Garden is based on the harmony of four main elements: rock, water, plants, and architecture.
Like all classical Chinese gardens, Dr Sun Yat Sen Garden is based on the harmony of four main elements: rock, water, plants, and architecture.
2. What is There at the Dr Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden?
The Chinese Garden consists of three indoor rooms, including a gift shop and outdoor spaces. Outdoor spaces can be viewed from covered walkways so if the weather goes sour, visitors won't get wet.3. Getting to Dr Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Address: 578 Carrall StreetThe garden is a 15-20 min. walk from downtown Vancouver.
Metered street parking throughout Chinatown or pay parking in the Parkade near the corner of Columbia St. on Keefer St.
Public Transit:
- The closet Skytrain station is "Stadium - Chinatown".
- By bus the #22 Knight or the #19 Metrotown from Downtown Vancouver will stop on Pender St. near Carrall St. Cross the courtyard and turn right at the statue of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen.
- The Vancouver Trolley Company operates replica, turn-of-the-century trolleys from March 15th - October 31st every 20 minutes.
4. How Much Time Should I Spend There?
Photo courtesy Tourism Vancouver / John Sinal
The average visitor will probably spend an hour or two at the Dr Sun Yat Sen garden.
Special events, such as Chinese New Year celebrations or art exhibits may increase the length of your stay.
Of course, if you find a comfortable corner on a sunny day, hang out all day!
Special events, such as Chinese New Year celebrations or art exhibits may increase the length of your stay.
Of course, if you find a comfortable corner on a sunny day, hang out all day!
5. Tours
Tours are included in the admission price and take place throughout the day. Check tour times.The Dr Sun Yat Sen Garden tour adds meaning to the experience of visiting the garden and turns it from just a pretty place to somewhere steeped in meaning and history.
6. Admission and Hours
Dr Sun Yat Sen Garden is open year-round, but days and hours vary by season. Check website for current hours.Admission to the garden is $8 - $10, free for kids under 5 (as of 2009).
7. While You're in the Area........
Photo of Gastown courtesy Tourism Vancouver / Al Harvey
•The garden is in Vancouver's Chinatown, where you can find a great meal or deal on housewares and Chinese trinkets.
•Gastown is one of Vancouver's oldest districts and boasts many beautiful refurbished buildings, cobblestone lanes and the world's first steam-powered clock.
Visitors should be aware that Gastown borders a part of town that is known for the presence of drug users and everything that goes along with that. We never felt unsafe during our visit, but best to have a good map and not meander without keeping your bearings.
•Gastown is one of Vancouver's oldest districts and boasts many beautiful refurbished buildings, cobblestone lanes and the world's first steam-powered clock.
Visitors should be aware that Gastown borders a part of town that is known for the presence of drug users and everything that goes along with that. We never felt unsafe during our visit, but best to have a good map and not meander without keeping your bearings.
