Slocan Valley Celebrated by BBC for Japanese-Canadian Heritage

The Slocan Valley has gained international recognition after being featured in the BBC’s list of top global travel destinations for 2026. This selection highlights not only the area’s stunning landscapes but also its significant Japanese-Canadian heritage. The BBC’s announcement, made on December 11, 2023, included diverse locations such as Cambodia and the Oregon coast, but the Slocan Valley stood out as the only Canadian representative.

At the heart of this recognition is the newly established Japanese Canadian Legacy Trail, which is set to open in 2024. This trail will span an initial 60-kilometre route from south Slocan to Sandon, with plans for further extensions across the province. The trail commemorates the displacement of approximately 22,000 Japanese-Canadians during World War II, who were forcibly relocated from the coast of British Columbia to internment sites in the interior.

According to Diane Selkirk, a contributor for the BBC, the trail offers a reflective journey through a pivotal chapter in Canadian history. It connects museums, memorial gardens, former work camps, and other culturally significant sites, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of this historical injustice. Selkirk noted that this initiative not only honors the past but also contributes to the future sustainability of the valley’s communities.

Lynn Shortt, the executive director of the Arrow Slocan Tourism Association, expressed her excitement regarding the BBC’s recognition. She stated, “We are over the moon about being named by the BBC. Being the only Canadian mention is really something.” While there are concerns among locals about potential tourism influx, Shortt reassured residents that the region’s rural character will be preserved due to its limited access and accommodation options.

“Tourism can be a beneficial asset for a community,” Shortt explained. “If we remain thoughtful and respectful, the Arrow Slocan region can benefit from it without losing its unique charm.” She anticipates that local accommodations will see an increase in bookings, ideally reaching around 80 percent capacity, alongside enhanced traffic for restaurants and shops.

The Japanese Canadian Legacies Society has been instrumental in funding the trail, which commenced in February 2025. CEO Susanne Tabata remarked that the recognition from the BBC “brought tears” to many. She emphasized the importance of the Slocan Valley as a site of both natural beauty and historical significance, stating, “The pristine Slocan Valley is a gem for tourists, enriched by the acknowledgment of this history of social injustice.”

Tabata also expressed hope that the trail will educate visitors about this dark period in Canadian history, ensuring such events are not repeated. “The type of tourist attracted to the natural beauty of the Slocan Valley is likely interested in cultural history,” she noted. Furthermore, the trail aims to provide opportunities for descendants of those impacted by the forced relocation.

For the wider Slocan and Arrow Lakes region, including communities like Nakusp, the BBC’s recognition signifies a promising path toward future tourism growth. Kristina Mogensen, president of the Nakusp and District Chamber of Commerce, stated, “No longer a well-kept secret of the Kootenays, our community is embracing this growth with enthusiasm.” She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the visitor experience, including potential projects aimed at improving signage and expanding activities during the busy tourism season.

As the Slocan Valley prepares to welcome a new wave of visitors, the focus remains on balancing tourism with the preservation of its unique cultural and natural heritage. For more information about the Japanese Canadian Legacy Trail, interested individuals can visit jclegacytrail.com.