Fan Tan Hotel Historical Suite

The Gambling Den has been restored to serve as a historic 1-bedroom suite in which guests can truly become immersed in the cultural neighbourhood. Lee Mong Kow, previous owner of 541.5 Fisgard, used to occupy the ground floor with his Shon Yuen Herbal Shop and Opium Factory and a second-floor personal residence. The Gambling Den is equipped with 1 Bed, and one pullout couch, allowing for four people to enjoy their stay in this special space.

The Fisgard block, formerly known as The Sheam Lee Building, was valued as part of a grouping of early buildings that contribute to the historic character and urban pattern of Victoria's Chinatown. The property changed hands several times and was leased by Lee Mong Kow who then built the Western addition to the building. The Fisgard block also links to the interior of the block via Fan Tan Alley which, in the early 1900s, housed gambling and opium dens shielded from the non-Chinese community by a series of heavy wooden doors. 539-541 Fisgard were occupied by the Shake Shake Hand Club, typical of the many private clubs in Chinatown mainly for gambling and/or smoking opium. These historic suites are the founding rooms of the Fan Tan Hotel as a branded, unflagged boutique hotel catering to an audience that values a spectacular, curated, authentically heritage-based guest experience. This hotel concept celebrates the history and resilience of Chinese immigrants, their contributions to modern Victoria, and the authentic cultural heritage of Canada's oldest Chinatown. The Fan Tan Hotel allows guests an unprecedented opportunity to the history of this special place. This experiential, suites-hotel brings a style of accommodation to Victoria that simply cannot be recreated elsewhere in the city. The richness and authenticity of the retained architectural fabric, both interior and exterior, combined with the personal histories of the former occupants, allows guests immersive participation in a vibrant past.

Business License: #00044815

Policies and Booking Requirements
Age Requirement: Our policy requires the guest making the reservation to be at least 21 years old in order to book.

Cancellation: By confirming this booking, guests agree to our cancellation policy. If you are concerned you may need to cancel outside of the policy, we suggest guests acquire travel insurance to assist in mitigating any losses.

Occupancy: Our policy permits only the number of guests booked initially to occupy the suite. No Pets. Children Welcome.

No Smoking: Strictly enforced. No Smoking on balconies or in the suite. (Note: The Strata strictly enforces these bylaws, and failure to comply will result in a $500.00 fine).

Party Restrictions: Our policy requires all guests to comply with city bylaws and refrain from hosting parties. (Note: The city strictly enforces these bylaws, and failure to comply will result in a $500.00 fine)

Additional Notes:
Cleaning Service: Our professional cleaning service provides outstanding care and attention to detail with enhanced cleaning protocols granting guests extra peace of mind.