Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Oregon's Chinese community as the Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site opens its doors for the season on May 2. This treasured National Historic Landmark located in John Day preserves the legacy of two prominent Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay, and Lung On, who transformed the site into a pivotal social, medical, and religious hub.

Visitors looking to explore this glimpse into the past can do so from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Monday, with hourly guided tours that tell the fascinating tale of these entrepreneurial spirits. According to a release by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, the last tour each day starts at 4 p.m. Be sure to mark your calendars, as the museum and Interpretive Center will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday through May and potentially into June, owed to staffing limitations.

The storied museum, situated at 125 NW Canton Street, offers a new tour slot this year from noon to 1 p.m., opening more opportunities for visitors to delve into the site's history. But take note – space is cozily limited to eight people per tour. This free 45-minute journey is not just an educational venture, but an intimate experience allowing visitors to connect with the narratives woven into the very fabric of the building's walls.

For those eager to make a trip, planning is essential, as boutique-sized tours fill up quickly. Venture into the essence of community resilience and the spirit of cross-cultural exchange that Kam Wah Chung Museum personifies. It's a firsthand look at a living relic of Oregon's diverse heritage and a literal embodiment of the state's storied past.