Within the stunning beauty of Hope, Cascades & Canyons—amidst its rich Indigenous and European history—lies a significant chapter of Japanese heritage waiting to be explored. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of history, the tranquillity of nature, or the delight of culinary adventures, this immersive three-day itinerary uncovers a facet of Hope’s heritage that continues to reverberate through our valleys and canyons today. This self-guided exploration is not just a trip through scenic landscapes but a passage through time, revealing the resilience, legacy, and continuing contributions of the Japanese community that has enriched this region.
Itinerary Quick Facts
- Recommended Length: 1-3 days
- Highlights: Scenic parks, captivating museums, delightful cuisine
- Total Distance: < 50 km (30 mi)
History
The rich and intricate history of the Japanese community in the Fraser Valley traces its roots back to the mid-19th century, beginning with the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush in the late 1850s. Eager for new opportunities, Japanese immigrants arrived in British Columbia and were drawn to the Fraser Valley, notably the Hope and Yale areas. There, they found employment not only in mining but also in the burgeoning fisheries and lumber industries. Their substantial contributions were pivotal to the growth of the Fraser Valley’s fisheries sector, as they helped to establish thriving fishing communities and significantly boosted the region’s economy.
During World War II, Japanese Canadians were subjected to forced relocation and incarceration, being uprooted from their homes, schools, and businesses to be placed in internment camps. Many residents of the Fraser Valley were deeply impacted by this grievous chapter in history. Tashme, located just 14 miles southeast of Hope, was the largest Japanese Canadian internment site in Canada. Established in 1942 and closed in 1946, Tashme has since been transformed into the Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum by locals dedicated to preserving this heritage. Opened in 2016, the museum offers a poignant glimpse into the daily lives of those interned at Tashme from 1942 to 1946, featuring artifacts, photographs, original buildings, and memorial benches and trees. Visiting the museum provides a profound opportunity to understand this crucial aspect of British Columbian history.
After the war, some Japanese Canadians were gradually released from the camps and began to rebuild their lives (others were deported to Japan, regardless of being born in Canada). Many chose to return to the Fraser Valley, re-engaging with the community and further enriching the region’s economy and cultural landscape. Their profound contributions, especially in the fishing and agriculture sectors, have left a lasting impact on the region, introducing traditional Japanese customs and traditions that weave through the cultural fabric of the area.
Several historical sites within Hope, Cascades & Canyons commemorate the Japanese Canadian experience, including the Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, the Hope CNR Station, and the Hope Friendship Garden. These sites serve as poignant reminders of the community’s resilience and contribution. Today, the Japanese community continues to play an integral role here, enriching the area’s diversity and cultural vibrancy.
Photo credit to Tashme Historical Project
Itinerary
Day 1: Hope Friendship Garden
Upon arrival, you can check into affordable and comfortable accommodations in Hope, ready for the adventure that awaits you.
For a relaxing start to your itinerary, begin by exploring the Hope Friendship Garden, located right in the heart of Hope in Memorial Park. This Japanese Friendship Garden was presented to the town of Hope on July 27, 1991. The garden was built by local Japanese Canadians to commemorate the Japanese interned during World War II in the Tashme Camp. Erected through proceeds from the 1976 Tashme Reunion held at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, this free attraction is a beautiful representation of Japanese culture and features a pond, Yew hedges, cherry trees, and Japanese maples. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the garden and learn about Japanese culture through plants, bonsai, and garden styling.
Be sure to stop for lunch or dinner at Kimchi Korean & Japanese Restaurant where you can enjoy delicious sushi, noodles, and rice bowls.
Day 2: Explore Japanese Canadian History
Easily completed on the same day as the garden or to enrich your itinerary on day two, stop by our Hope Cascades & Canyons mobile visitor center. Here, you can access maps and travel tips from our visitor centre staff, and view the future site of the tourism information centre in the Hope CNR Station building.
Railways were integral to the growth and development of British Columbia, serving as the primary mode of transportation during the first half of the 20th century. The Hope Canadian National Railway (CNR) Station was the main connecting railroad station where Japanese Canadians arrived before taking another 2.5 hour train ride to Tashme. This station was a crucial access point to the Fraser Valley and, more than a century after its construction in 1916, has been preserved and remains standing, though now in a new location. A rare heritage building, the 30-metre long station was saved and moved in February of 2024 to share space with the Hope Cascades & Canyons mobile visitor centre. Once renovations are complete, the 2,567-square-foot structure will transform into the primary tourism information center, also housing a museum and a restaurant, further enriching its historical and communal value. We can’t wait to welcome you here once it is ready. Stay tuned on our social channels for updates on this!
Next, take a trip to the Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, located just 20 minutes outside of Hope. The museum provides the history of the Tashme Internment Camp, which was home to over 2,600 Japanese-Canadians during World War II. You’ll learn about the daily life, work, and challenges faced by those who lived there. The experience is enriched by a 25-seat theatre room, the viewing of a 90-year-old Koinobori, and Fuki Gobo plants that have thrived since the internment period. Continue your journey outdoors on the museum grounds to see the original Tashme RCMP Administration Building, the Tashme Kindergarten Schoolhouse, and memorial benches and trees, including a Akebono Sakura. Don’t miss the gift shop for unique locally made items. Tashme is one of BC’s most intact sites with ten structures still standing, inviting visitors to learn from dedicated and knowledgeable hosts. They are open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with possible reduced hours from October 1 to April 30 due to weather and road conditions. While there is no charge for general admission, donations are warmly accepted to support the museum’s mission.
After a day of powerful learnings at Tashme, satisfy your appetite at Kibo. With Japanese cuisine, including tataki, sushi, and bento boxes, Kibo is a Canadian sushi brand that serves high-quality sushi and other Japanese food choices. The name Kibo is derived from from the Japanese interpretation of “hope” (“希望” kibō), inspired by the power of sushi to nourish, to uplift, and to bring people together. Fitting right?!
Day 3: Hike the Coquihalla Canyon
On your final day, we recommend hiking in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. With many trails to choose from including the iconic Othello Tunnels, you’ll find spectacular views of the rugged mountains and canyons that make up this area. During your time here, keep an eye out for the Kettle Valley Railway, which played a crucial role in the settlement and development of the area. The railway was also used to transport Japanese Canadians to internment camps during the World War II.
Hope, Cascades & Canyons offers an adventure of a lifetime for the nature-loving and history-curious traveller seeking to learn something new about British Columbia’s history. From the Hope Japanese Garden to the Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum and the Coquihalla Canyon, explore the fascinating Japanese history and culture that whispers through our stunning landscapes. Here, a mere sightseeing weekend transforms into an insightful journey through the Japanese narratives that have shaped this region. So journey into Hope, BC, for a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and nature! Share your experience with us using #ExploreHCC.
