Make to explore outside of Vancouver when visiting British Columbia. There are many cities neighboring Vancouver, as most would call them Greater Vancouver. Richmond, BC, is just 20 minutes from Vancouver, depending on where you are and of course the traffic. Richmond is home to the Vancouver International Airport. It is so close, that people from outside of British Columbia often confuse it for Vancouver itself.
Richmond is still very much a city of its own. It has many beautiful public parks, gardens, and a huge Asian influence in this city. If you like to try different world foods, Richmond is the best place to check out. There are so many local little restaurants and cafes here. Bubble tea is must try, and here, you can find some of the most affordable bubble tea at Peanut’s Bubble Tea, located inside the Richmond Public Market. There are other cafes for bubble tea, but Peanut’s has the most affordable bubble tea. They have been open for over 30 years, usually with line ups daily. Elsewhere, teas and other drinks will cost $12 and up, whereas here its closer to $3-10.
The Richmond Public Market also has a variety of food, all affordable, and different from the usual pizza and subs like most malls. You will find authentic Chinese food here, not the Americanized Chinese food like at many fast-food chains. You will find Hong Kong style crab, dumplings, congee, and a variety of other Asian dishes. Meals typically cost $8-15, and they come loaded. Great for those on a budget.
The International Buddhist Temple, also known as the Guan Yin Temple, is another attraction within Richmond, BC. It is one of the largest Buddhist temples in North America, and it is home to the largest Buddhist statues in North America. The architecture alone is impressive! Enjoy the murals, gardens, and serene ponds. It is a peaceful place, and you will slowly lose any stresses you carry. The City of Richmond, BC, has named the International Buddhist Temple a “Points of Pride”. It is a must-see place while in BC. Visit here.
From May to October, the Richmond Night Market is a big event. The night market began in 2000, and became an international attraction. Though the market is not free, there is a fee to enter. If you enter with a group, there is a price reduction overall. Admission is subject to change every year, so be sure to check in advance. The market hosts over 110 retail booths, and over 300 food booths, offering a variety of cuisines. Feel free to try anything from octopus, to the tamer snacks like a spiralized potato on a snack. The food alone is worth visiting Night Market! It is a foodie paradise.
There are live shows put on at the Night Market, showcasing local talents: music, dancing, acrobatics and even a martial arts display. For activities, there is an arcade section, games, a giant bouncy castle, and an area where you can run around in a giant bubble, in a shallow filled pool. This activity is a lot of fun! You can race your friends! There are many spots set up with props to take pictures as well.
The Richmond Night Market is one of a kind. If you are into anime, it offers a wide variety of anime merch. You can find Sailor Moon tee shirts, Hello Kitty accessories or mugs, and more. The vendors are well stocked and display a variety of items. From hats, earrings, clothing to house wares; you can find amazing deals here. Artisanal goods are offered as well, such as handmade ceramics, local vendors selling honeys and sauces, and even custom-made items. There are a variety of items to peruse through. The Night Market will keep you busy for hours, so be sure to get here early.
The Richmond Night Market is conveniently located next to the Bridgeport Station, so you can easily get here via the SkyTrain or busses. It is also located next to the River Rock Casino and Resort; in case you feel like trying your luck in there! There is parking available, and it is free; so you can drive here without worrying too much about paying for parking. Check out the Richmond Night Market’s Facebook page for more information, or here.