Overview
Richmond is a riverine city south of Vancouver in British Columbia's Lower Mainland, comprising several islands protected by a dike system from the Fraser River. Over 60% of the population is non-white, giving Richmond the country's largest Asian-Canadian population by percentage, with many Cantonese speakers.
Architecture · Day Trips · Family Travel · Museums · Transit Hub
Before you go
Connectivity
Free WiFi is available at most hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. YVR Airport offers WiFi. Canadian cellular providers provide good coverage throughout the city.
Food
Richmond is famous for authentic Asian cuisine, particularly Cantonese dim sum and Hong Kong-style dishes. The city has been credited with having the best reasonably-priced Chinese food in the Northwest.
Language
English is widely spoken. Mandarin and Cantonese are commonly used due to the large Chinese-Canadian population. Service staff often address Asian-looking visitors in Chinese first.
Money
Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, including at the Richmond Night Market. Many vendors at night markets are cash-only.
Transport
TransLink operates SkyTrain (Canada Line), buses, and ferry services. The Canada Line connects Richmond to Vancouver and YVR Airport. Bridgeport Station is a major transit hub.
Weather
Summers are mild (13-22°C) with low rainfall. Winters are cold (1-7°C) with significant snow (123 cm in January). The Richmond Night Market operates late April to mid-October.