Your Key to Unlocking History
From a haven for Chinese immigrants working in the salmon canneries, gold mines, and logging camps in the 19th century to a vibrant commercial district and social hub, Chinatown has long been a place to celebrate Chinese culture and people.
Our Vision
Situated in three historic buildings on the famed Fisgard Block, the Fan Tan Hotel is designed to celebrate the history and resilience of Chinese immigrants, their important contributions to modern Victoria, and the authentic cultural heritage of Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Stay in our historic suites and immerse yourself in an ever-evolving story.
Timeline
1884
New Pathways
Construction began on the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway, triggering a construction boom in Victoria and bringing Chinese merchants from California to BC’s capital city.
1885
Difficult Times
In response to anti-immigration sentiment, the federal government passed a discriminatory law requiring that all Chinese immigrants pay a head tax. The 1923 Chinese Immigration Act followed, essentially banning all Chinese immigration.
1888
Persevering
As Chinatown grew, Chinese businessmen Sheam Tip and Low Yan San hired architect Elmer Fisher to build the Sheam & Low Building at 543-545 ½ Fisgard. Sing Lee Groceries occupied the main floor, while Sing Lee and his family leased the upper floor in what has become the “Shop House.”
1901
Building a Legacy
Businessman Lee Mong Kow acquired the adjacent property at 539-543 ½ Fisgard and commissioned the Lee Mong Kow Building, a similar structure to its neighbour. Lee’s Shon Yuen Herbalist occupied the ground floor, and its opium factory was established at the rear of the building. Lee Mong Kow and his family lived in the space above.
1915–1935
Hidden Chinatown
When his family outgrew the apartment at 543 ½, Lee Mong Kow converted the upper floors of his building into the Shake Shake Hand Club, an elite social club for well-connected members of Victoria’s Chinese community. Fan Tan Alley was part of a large network of interconnecting alleyways that were the lifeblood of the early Chinatown community, and where daily life intermingled with opium production and gambling houses.
2022–2023
Restored Glory
With the oldest standing Chinatown buildings in North America, Victoria’s Chinatown was deemed a National Historic Site. In 2022, the Sheam & Low, Lee Mong Kow, and Sing Lee buildings underwent extensive rehabilitation and restoration to preserve their unique heritage value and character. In 2023, the Fan Tan Hotel opened to guests. Come experience it for yourself.
