How to Experience Lost Intersections - Nanaimo's Latest Public Art Display

“Lost Intersections”, by artist Jackie Wong, is a public art project designed to bring visibility back to stories that have long gone unseen.

Across three historic intersections in downtown Nanaimo, glowing neon markers now trace the locations of the city’s former Chinatowns. Subtle, striking, and intentionally placed, you’ll know them when you see them.

These illuminated wayfinders mark sites that were once vibrant centres of community and resilience. Today, they invite visitors and locals alike to pause, reflect, and consider the histories that continue to shape Nanaimo’s cultural identity.

Each installation includes an accessible QR code linking to deeper historical context. It’s a blend of public art and storytelling, one that doesn’t just ask you to look, but to understand.

So, how do you experience it? Not in a rush. Not all at once.

Here’s a two-day itinerary that lets you take it in properly. Art, history, and a little wandering in between.

Day 1

Morning - First Chinatown (Esplanade Street and Victoria Crescent)

At the intersection of Esplanade Street and Victoria Crescent stood Nanaimo’s first Chinatown.

By the 1860s, Chinese immigrants were arriving in increasing numbers, many employed by the Vancouver Coal Mining and Land Company. As the community grew, so did the need for businesses, services, and gathering spaces, leading to the development of a thriving Chinatown that would become the third largest in British Columbia.

Today, this is where you’ll find the first “Lost Intersections” installation. 

Start here. Take a moment. Scan the QR code. Let the story sink in before moving on.

Then, shift gears, just slightly.

Victoria Crescent is one of those spots that rewards a slow wander. Think independent shops, local finds, and just enough character to keep you lingering longer than planned. Grab a coffee and a bite at The Vault Cafe, then pop into The Upstairs Bazaar for a mix of vintage, handmade, and locally sourced goods.

No need to rush it. This part’s about the in-between.

Afternoon - Second Chinatown (View Street and Bing Kee Street)

From the mid-1880s to the early 1900s, Nanaimo’s second Chinatown took shape in the south end, just outside what were then city boundaries.

It remained a strong and active community before being relocated once again, this time closer to the city centre.

Today, this site marks the second “Lost Intersections” installation.

Spend some time here. Notice what’s changed and what hasn’t.

Afterward, head over to Wolf Brewing Company for a well-earned break. Locally crafted beer, good food, and a solid place to sit with what you’ve just taken in.

Still feeling curious? Keep heading south. Explore Cedar for local artisan stops, or, if your timing’s right, wander through the Cedar Farmer’s Market.

Evening 

Round out the day with a deeper dive at the Nanaimo Museum, where exhibits expand on the stories of Nanaimo’s Chinatowns and coal mining history.

Then, step back out onto Commercial Street.

Dinner plans? You’ve got options. Plenty of them. From casual bites to something a little more sit-down-and-stay-awhile.

Day 2

Morning - Third Chinatown (Pine Street and Hecate Street)

This marks the location of Nanaimo’s third Chinatown, and the final “Lost Intersections” installation.

At its peak, this community was home to approximately 1,200 people and served as a cultural and economic hub for Chinese communities across Vancouver Island.

In 1960, a fire destroyed what remained. It was never rebuilt.

Spend a little extra time here. This one tends to stay with you.

When you’re ready, make your way to the Old City Quarter, a district known for its restored heritage buildings and independently owned shops. Browse unique spots like Hoxton Home, Good Going Vintage, Windowseat Books, and more!

A slower morning, with a bit of character built in.

Afternoon 

 After a morning grounded in history, shift into something quieter.

Head to Colliery Dam Park for a nature break that still connects to Nanaimo’s past. Built in 1910 by the Western Fuel Company, these dams were originally used to support coal operations, supplying water for washing coal and supporting mining activity.

Today, they offer something a little different: forested trails, calm water, and a chance to reset. Walk the loop. Sit for a bit. Let everything you’ve taken in over the past two days settle.

Ready to Explore? 

"Lost Intersections" isn’t something you check off a list.

It’s something you move through, slowly, thoughtfully, and maybe a little differently than you expected. Take your time. Look twice.  Stay curious.

There’s more to Nanaimo than what’s visible at first glance, and this is a pretty meaningful place to start.