First inhabited by the Coast Salish First Nations tribes who would seasonally camp on the shores of the Fraser River during fishing season, Richmond has become one of the most vibrant and ethnically diverse cities in Greater Vancouver. In-migration from Asian countries—Hong Kong and Mainland China, Vietnam, and Korea in particular, has provided an enormous cultural boost to the once-staid town. Don’t miss the annual Chinese New Year celebrations (note how prominent red colours are!) held in the major malls downtown.
Located on an incredibly fertile flood plain formed by sediment from the Fraser River, Richmond is truly a city of contrasts. Within a couple of kilometres of each other, you can see Canada’s nascent high-tech industry (MacDonald Detwiller, maker of missile and rocketry software) and the many market gardens that provide bountiful produce and freshly cut flowers for consumption not just in Canada, but around the world. Jump out of your car and stock up on freshly picked produce grown by the very farmer manning the produce stand. Farm to table doesn’t get any easier than that.
Richmond is extremely easy to get to from both downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport, thanks to the brilliant Canada Line Skytrain; a gleaming people mover that exemplifies Richmond’s futuristic, cosmopolitan vibe. Or, you can ride your bike pretty much anywhere without worrying about ascending steep hills. Bike paths suitable for all ages and abilities follow the easy flow of the Fraser River into the historic fishing village of Steveston, still inhabited by people who cast nets on the Salish Sea. Depending on the time of year, your “catch of the day” can be taken home and grilled that very evening.
After dark, Richmond throbs with excitement thanks to not one but two Night Markets. Bring an appetite for adventurous cuisine and be prepared to be wowed by the spectacularly illuminated sculptures. The slot machines and poker tables at River Rock Casino will tempt you to tango with Lady Luck; you can even place a bet on your favourite horse in the high-tech Racebook room.
More than just another suburb south of the city, Richmond truly has it all.