In the heart of Vancouver's Chinatown, this classical Ming Dynasty-style garden is the first authentic classical Chinese garden ever built outside China. Designed to reflect Taoist philosophy, the garden was created with the help of 52 artisans from China's garden city, Suzhou. Guided tours are available. Once a Hudson's Bay Co. outpost, the fort became the birthplace of British Columbia. Costumed staff offers visitors a view of early pioneer life in the Lower Mainland, including blacksmithing, barrel making and cooking.
Visitors also can explore antique shops and art galleries.
A statue of Gassy Jack stands in Maple Tree Square. You can walk down cobblestone streets to shops, restaurants, galleries, cafes and the world's first steampowered clock. Guided walking tours are available. Gastown annual events include the Du Maurier International Jazz Festival and the Gastown Grandprix. This 344-hectare sanctuary is a wintering area for thousands of migratory birds travelling along North America's Pacific Flyway.