By Melody Hou and the AMS Team
Looking for a fun day trip and a chance to explore more of Vancouver? Join us on a journey from UBC to the beautiful Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. This guide has everything you need to make the most of your day in the city.
Getting There: Easy and Budget-Friendly
Directions from UBC to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
- Transit cost is included in your student U-Pass.
- Take the #14 Hastings bus and get off at West Hastings Street and Carrall Street
- Walk 1 block from the bus stop to the garden
- Or take the #4 Powell bus at West Cordova Street and Carrall Street
- Walk 1 block from the bus stop to the garden
Admission
- The garden is open every day (except Mondays) from 9:30AM to 4:00PM
- General Admission is $12.00 for students – make sure to bring your UBC student card!
What to Do at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
The garden is a museum built in the style of Ming Dynasty through a remarkable collaboration among local community members, the Canadian government, and artists from China.
Visit with friends and try the Creature Hunt scavenger game. Pick up a map from staff, then walk along the garden’s pathways, and search for symbolic creatures like bats, turtles, dragons, koi, seahorses, phoenixes, and butterflies.
Just past the main path near the exit you’ll find a teahouse where you can pour yourself a cup of traditional tea. You may also encounter hands-on cultural activities like brush calligraphy, introductory pinyin practice, or other experiences. Although you have to exit through the garden gift shop, they have some beautiful, culturally inspired items and art pieces that is absolutely worth browsing.
Where to Get Food Near Dr. Sun Yat-Sen
New Town Bakery & Restuarant
148 E Pender Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3
If you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go snack or a sweet treat, New Town Bakery has you covered. With its affordable prices and wide selection of freshly baked goods, it is the perfect place to pick up a bun (or two) for you and a friend on your way home.
Chinatown BBQ
130 E Pender Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3
If you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal, Chinatown BBQ is a great spot to hit after the tour. They serve up delicious traditional Chinese BBQ and family-style dishes, which is perfect for sharing with a friend
Costco Downtown
605 Expo Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6B 1V4
If you’re heading toward the Expo Line, take a 8-minute walk to Costco, where you can grab their famous $1.50 hot dog combo or choose from a variety of other budget-friendly food court options before transiting home.
Wrapping Up:
If you’re a student interested in Chinese culture, or you’re an international student from China feeling a little homesick, this day trip is a perfect way to reconnect with tradition and culture right here in Vancouver. With so many accessible and delicious food options in and around Chinatown, you’re in for a memorable experience. Grab a friend and make the most of this meaningful day out!
Image credit: Geoff Peters
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