Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada. Shortly after gold was found in the Fraser Canyon on BC's mainland in 1858, thousands of miners arrived here from California. Around one third were Chinese citizens. Chinatown quickly developed into a dense business neighbourhood and grew steadily until the early 20th century.

Now a National Historic Site of Canada, a small collection of historic buildings and Chinese businesses remain. Highlights include the very narrow Fan Tan Alley and the ornate Gate of Harmonious Interest on the corner of Fisgard St and Government St.