Gate of Harmonious Interest 同濟門 Tong Ji Men Description The 同濟門 Tong Ji Men (Gate of Harmonious) Interest is the entrance to Chinatown, the oldest in Canada. The gate was erected in 1981 in commemoration of Chinatown's revitalization by the City of Victoria and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
Two hand-carved stone lions, gifts from Victoria's Twin, City of Suzhou, China, guard either side of this elaborately detailed red and gold gate. Two time capsules, to be opened in 2081 and 2096, are encapsulated in each outer red pillar. The names of 61 Chinese Canadians who fought and died for Canada in World War II are engraved on a plaque.
Artist statement
Both Chinese and non-Chinese communities were involved in this accomplishment, hence the two inscriptions: "To work together with one heart" and "To help each other achieve harmony."
About the artist Resume Tóng Ji Mén (同濟門) Gate of Harmonious Interest, 1981
Details Site
Corner of Fisgard and Government Streets.
Artwork category
Civic Public Art
Date unveiled
November 15, 1981
