Joshua ReyMountain View Cemetery is a historical place in Vancouver. It’s the final resting place of several notable figures in the city. Our guide unravels the stories within, offering insights on its significance and notable graves.
Join us on a poignant journey through Mountain View Cemetery, where the past speaks, and tranquility reigns. Read on for an enriching experience amidst Vancouver’s cultural landscape.
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
What is the history of Mountain View Cemetery?
Mountain View Cemetery, situated between 31st and 43rd Avenues on Fraser Street, has been around since 1887 and is run by the City of Vancouver.
This green space boasts a variety of old trees and stunning views of the North Coast Mountains. Mountain View Cemetery held its first inaugural burial in February 1887 and now serves as the final resting place for 145,000 individuals.
The burial ground honors fourteen former Vancouver mayors, along with city firefighters, police officers, and everyday citizens. The cemetery also carries cultural and historical significance, housing the graves of over 3,000 Japanese Canadians.
Back in 1941, Vancouver was home to about 10,000 Japanese Canadians. The early sections of the cemetery hold the resting places of some of the first Japanese Canadian immigrants in B.C.
That’s what actually makes this cemetery more special—it’s the final resting spot for many influential Japanese Canadians, telling the story of their noteworthy contributions to B.C.
A notable one is Yasutaro Hirose, the first Japanese Canadian to be buried in Vancouver in 1893. Most of the Japanese Canadians were buried at the back, also known as the Old Cemetery.
Mountain View Cemetery serves as a representative for other Japanese cemeteries and memorials across BC, making it a significant place that symbolizes the respect of the province for Japanese Canadians.
The formal acknowledgment of the Japanese Canadian Cemetery at Mountain View took place during an inaugural walking tour organized by the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre.
Noteworthy historical events are also memorialized through the interment of victims from shipping disasters, railway accidents, avalanches, and both world wars
Things to Know
Land Acres
Comprising 106 acres of land, Mountain View Cemetery encompasses around 92,000 grave sites and is the final resting place for 145,000 interred individuals.
Amenities
Mountain View Cemetery features a celebration hall offering versatile spaces for events. The spacious reception area provides a welcoming setting for guests to gather, share conversations over cups of coffee and tea.
Designed with thoughtful details, the hall includes a custom-built ledge for displaying cherished photos of loved ones. Adjacent to the reception area, a service kitchen is available for catering arrangements.
| Hours | Description | Fee |
| Regular hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm) | No food or beverages Note: no access to kitchen area | $575 |
| Regular hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm) | With food or beverages and access to the kitchen area | $775 |
| All other hours (Evenings, weekends, statutory holidays) | No food or beverages Note: no access to kitchen area | $925 |
| All other hours (Evenings, weekends, statutory holidays) | With food or beverages and access to kitchen area | $1,125 |
For more formal occasions, the Caradoc Room stands out as an elegant event space equipped with a built-in audio-visual system. This sophisticated venue is complemented by an adjoining courtyard and pond, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Mountain View Cemetery Rules
In accordance with By-law 8719, specific regulations are in place to ensure the respectful usage and maintenance of memorial spaces at Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver.
The rulebook is there to give you a quick rundown of what the bylaw covers. The bylaw itself goes into a lot more detail about each of these rules.
How to Get to Mountain View Cemetery
From downtown Vancouver: Go towards the Chinatown ramp, turn right on Main Street, left on Kingsway, then turn right on Fraser Street and another right at E 39th Ave.
From YVR: Head to Marine Drive E, merge onto SW Marine Drive, take a left on Cambie Street, right on W 41st Avenue, then turn left at St George Street and take a right.
From North Vancouver: Take Trans-Canada Hwy, exit 27, turn right on E Broadway, left onto Nanaimo Street, then turn right on 33rd Avenue and left on Fraser Street.
Where to Stay near the Mountain View Cemetery
Hampton Inn
Address: 8811 Bridgeport Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 1R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-232-5505
Pricing: $
Situated near the SkyTrain Bridgeport Station, the Hampton Inn is just 13 minutes away from the Mountain View Cemetery, making it an excellent option for those seeking a comfortable and well-equipped stay without the frills.
Every room features modern amenities such as a free hot breakfast, a fitness center, a complimentary 24/7 airport shuttle, free parking.
Cambie Lodge
Address: 446 W 13th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1W5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-872-3060
Pricing: $$
This charming bed and breakfast, nestled within a meticulously restored Edwardian Manor, exudes Victorian elegance. The simple guestrooms feature a laid-back sunroom and an outdoor deck that provides a picturesque view of the vibrant garden.
The accommodations boast a combination of private and communal bathrooms, adorned with quaint furnishings and decor. Each room is equipped with flat-screen TVs and complimentary WiFi.
Holiday Inn Vancouver-Centre
Address: 711 W. Broadway, Heather St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3Y2
Phone: +1 604-879-0511
Pricing: $$$
At the Holiday Inn Vancouver-Centre, you can indulge in a range of amenities, including an indoor pool and a sun deck. While it may be on the slightly expensive side, the value matches the cost.
The hotel offers a fitness center, a heated indoor pool, and numerous dining choices. Additionally, the well-designed rooms feature a pleasant terrace that offers scenic views of the city center.
Best Western Plus Vancouver Airport Hotel
Address: 1041 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6P 6L6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-263-1555
Pricing: $$
The Best Western Plus is 11 minutes away from Mountain View Cemetery. This fantastic hotel features cozy, down-home accommodations as well as an informal restaurant and lounge below.
A gym and a business center are also available. Breakfast, parking, and a 24-hour airport shuttle are all available.
The Burrard
Address: 1100 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-2331
Pricing: $$
This charming modest hotel is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, making it convenient to many of the city’s sights and activities. Mornings can be a little noisy owing to cars and early office journeys.
However, The Burrard boasts superb rooms and amenities such as a courtyard oasis, guest laundry, complimentary bike and ebike rentals, and parking for electric automobiles.
Where to Eat near the Mountain View Cemetery
Grand View Szechuan Restaurant
Address: 4181 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5V 4E9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-879-8885
Pricing: $
If you have a hankering for Chinese cuisine but prefer not to trek all the way to Chinatown, consider dining at the Grand View Szechuan Restaurant, conveniently located just 3 minutes from the Mountain View Cemetery.
Opt for the shredded chicken chow mein—it comes in impressively generous portions and boasts a delectable blend of protein, vegetables, and noodles.
Le Marché St. George
Address: 4393 St George St, Vancouver, BC V5V 4A3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-565-5107
Pricing: $$
Le Marché St. George is this cozy, rustic cafe with amazing pastries and top-notch coffee. They make these insanely good sandwiches, especially the cheese tomato confit croissant sandwich.
The place is just too cute. There’s even a bookshelf outside with used books you can snag while sipping your coffee. The cutlery and tableware are all mismatched, each with its own personality, and the vibe is just really something special.
Breka Bakery & Café
Address: 4554 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3R5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-559-0900
Pricing: $$
This fantastic local bakery is just a stroll away from Fraser Street and 49th Street, and they’ve stepped up their game by expanding their food options.
You’ve got to try the lemon donut—it’s a soft-textured delight with a zesty lemon filling, a perfect glaze, and a sprinkle of coconut on top. Pair that with the caramel chocolate macchiato cake, featuring a sweet, dark, and crunchy layer for an extra treat.
Duffin’s Donuts
Address: 1391 E 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5W 1R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-325-5544
Pricing: $$
Duffin’s Donuts, around since 1987, is a straightforward and down-to-earth spot with delicious donuts. Our top picks are the buttermilk donuts in lemon and raspberry.
The donuts are super fresh and not overly greasy. What adds to the charm is the retro vibe, and the best part? They’re open until midnight during the week.
Banh Mi Saigon
Address: 5397 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5P 3V6, Canada
Phone: +1 778-379-9992
Pricing: $
Banh Mi Saigon offers freshly baked Vietnamese subs with a light and crispy crust. They craft their own bread, so the enticing aroma hits you as soon as you walk in.
Try out their top picks, the house special and lemongrass pork. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and come in generous portions. Don’t sleep on the pork pastries—they’re delightful, and the iced coffee strikes a perfect balance.
What to Do in and near Mountain View Cemetery
Take Peaceful Walks through the Cemetery
Address: 5455 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-325-2646
Feel free to stroll through Mountain View Cemetery—many people do. Just keep it low-key and considerate, as others have noted. Give mourners some space, and avoid being loud or disruptive.
Take advantage of the serene sunset walks in the area; it’s a great way to unwind and clear your mind. Just remember to be respectful and keep the volume down to maintain the tranquility of the surroundings.
Go on a Walking Tour
Address: 5455 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-325-2646
Another option is to join a walking tour, occasionally led by volunteers at Mountain View Cemetery. These tours are complimentary, and you can find tour dates on the cemetery’s Facebook page.
Alternatively, if you prefer a self-guided experience, there are informative brochures available to assist you in exploring Mountain View at your own pace.
- Discovery Day: Self Guided Walk
- Interesting Citizens: Vancouver’s Mayors
- Interesting Citizens: Princess Sophia Sinking
Attend the All Souls Events
Address: 5455 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-325-2646
Mountain View’s All Souls events are free and feature talks, presentations, crafts, and music that delve into diverse traditions and rituals.
Emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere, the events reflect the customs of various cultures worldwide. The focus is on honoring our deceased loved ones through ceremonies, celebrations, and the care of family grave sites.
Drop by Queen Elizabeth Park
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Sitting atop Little Mountain, the highest point in Vancouver proper, Queen Elizabeth Park boasts an impressive biodiversity, housing over 95 mammal species and 600 bird species.
Encompassing 52 hectares, the park is adorned with the magnificent Bloedel Conservatory. Additionally, visitors can explore a beautifully landscaped quarry garden and an arboretum featuring a diverse collection of exotic and native trees.
Take a Dip at the Hillcrest Aquatic Centre
Address: 4575 Clancy Loranger Way, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-257-8680
For a refreshing cooldown following a trip to the Mountain View Cemetery, the Hillcrest Aquatic Centre is just a 5-minute jaunt away and stands as Vancouver’s largest aquatic facility.
The center boasts a substantial zero-depth leisure pool, along with an enclosed body slide and an open tube slide complemented by sand play areas. Additional amenities include diving boards, slides, saunas, and steam rooms.
Apps to Download for a Visit to Mountain View Cemetery
Street Food Vancouver: shows a map of the best food trucks in the city with their opening hours.
Transit: real-time information of buses and trains in Vancouver with special service alerts, bus capacity predictions, and real time vehicle locations.
Uber: book a private ride in the city on the app, with transparent rates and easy booking.
Vancouver Street Trees: get information on the various species of trees that you’ll find around the city.
