Chinatown Saigon, also known as Cholon, is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of Chinese and Vietnamese cultures and top things to Do in Ho Chi Minh you should visit. It is rich in history and traditions, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ho Chi Minh City. From exploring ancient temples and local markets to savoring street food and participating in festivals, there are countless activities to join. In this guide, we will explore the top best things to do in Chinatown Saigon, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this fascinating part of the city.
Overview of Saigon’s Chinatown
In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Saigon’s Chinatown, also known as Cholon, is primarily located in Districts 5 and 11 and part of District 6.
Cholon has been a location for the Chinese-Vietnamese community since the late 1770s. Like other Chinatowns worldwide, it is home to many Chinese businesses and residents.
You’ll find temples, ancient shops, bustling markets, modern boutiques and trendy cafes. The architecture is a mix of classical Chinese and French colonial styles. The buildings often feature ornate roofs and colorful facades, creating a charming, layered look.
The streets in Cholon can be narrow and busy, making it an exciting place to explore. The neighbourhood’s bi-lingual signs, unique dishes, historic pagodas, and cultural blend offer a fresh and exhilarating experience, even for local Vietnamese. Cholon’s distinct vibe and appeal make it a great place to spend a few days discovering its rich heritage and lively atmosphere.
Top Best Things To Do in Chinatown Saigon
Explore Historical Sites and Temples
Thien Hau Temple
Thien Hau Temple is one of Chinatown Saigon’s oldest and most famous temples. Dedicated to the Sea Goddess Thien Hau, this temple features intricate carvings, beautiful altars, and a serene courtyard.
Visitors come here to pray for protection and to admire the stunning architecture that reflects traditional Chinese culture.
Ong Bon Pagoda
Ong Bon Pagoda, also known as Quan De Temple, or Nhi Phu Temple is another significant religious site in Chinatown Saigon. It is dedicated to Guan Yu, the Chinese god of war and loyalty.
The pagoda is filled with incense smoke and vibrant decorations, creating a peaceful atmosphere for worshippers and tourists alike. The detailed sculptures and historical artifacts make it a must-visit spot.
Cha Tam Church
The lovely Cha Tam Church, also called St. Francis Xavier Church, is right in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. It has a real neighbourhood feel because traditional homes surround it. The church is significant in history because it was where President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother went to hide before they were tragically killed during the military coup in 1963.
Quan Am Pagoda
The Quan Am Pagoda is tucked away on a quiet, narrow street with busy food stands. It was built in the 1800s and is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. It’s not very big, but it’s filled with bright colours and has beautiful ceramic scenes on the roof that show characters from traditional Chinese folklore. There are also large lacquer statues of guardian spirits at the door.
Nghia An Assembly Hall
Nghia An Assembly Hall is a historic temple built by Chinese immigrants from Chaozhou. It is known for its grand entrance, colorful statues, and rich cultural heritage. The hall serves as a place for community gatherings and religious ceremonies.
You can explore the hall’s stunning architecture and learn about the history and traditions of the Chinese community in Saigon.
Cholon Mosque
The Vietnamese Tamil Muslims built Cholon Mosque in 1932. It is a famous religious place in Chinatown that mostly serves Muslims from Malaysia and Indonesia who live in Ho Chi Minh City.
The mosque stands out with its simple but beautiful design. It is decorated in soothing blues and greens, creating a calm atmosphere in a busy area.
Discover local markets and shopping areas
Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay Market is the central market of Chinatown Saigon, known for its vast array of goods and bustling atmosphere and is top things to do in Chinatown Saigon. Built-in the 1920s, the market boasts beautiful French colonial architecture. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce, spices, and seafood to clothing, household items, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience local life and pick up unique items at reasonable prices.
Cholon Market
Cholon Market, also known as the Great Market, is another popular shopping destination in Chinatown Saigon. This market is famous for its wholesale goods, including textiles, electronics, and traditional Chinese medicines.
The lively market scenes and the variety of products make it a fascinating spot to explore. Bargaining is common here, so be prepared to negotiate for the best deals.
Traditional Shops and Stores
In addition to the large markets, Chinatown Saigon is dotted with numerous traditional shops and stores. These small businesses offer various products, from handcrafted items and antiques to Chinese herbs and specialty foods.
Walking through these shops, you can discover unique items and enjoy the area’s rich cultural heritage. Many of these stores have been run by families for generations, adding a personal touch to your shopping experience.
Read more: Top 12 Best of local market in Ho Chi Minh
Enjoy Street Food
Popular Street Food Stalls
Chinatown Saigon is famous for its vibrant street food scene. Popular street food stalls offer a variety of delicious snacks and meals, such as Banh Bao (steamed buns), Hoang Thanh (wonton soup), and Xoi (sticky rice). These stalls are often crowded with locals and tourists eager to taste the authentic flavors. Street food here is tasty and affordable, making it a must-try experience.
Famous Restaurants
For a more formal dining experience, Chinatown Saigon is home to several renowned restaurants that serve traditional Chinese cuisine. Restaurants like Tan Hai Van and Minh Phung are famous for their extensive menus featuring dishes such as dim sum, Peking duck, and hot pot.
These restaurants provide a comfortable setting where you can enjoy a leisurely meal while exploring the rich culinary traditions of the Chinese community.
Traditional Bakeries
Chinatown Saigon also boasts several traditional bakeries perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Bakeries like Hy Lam Mon offer a variety of pastries and cakes, including mooncakes, egg tarts, and pineapple buns.
These treats are freshly baked and often come with a fascinating history, reflecting the area’s cultural heritage. Visiting these bakeries allows you to taste the sweet side of Chinatown Saigon and brings a delightful end to your culinary adventure.
Experience Chinese Culture
Traditional Festivals and Celebrations
Chinatown Saigon is a vibrant hub of traditional festivals and celebrations. The most notable is the Lunar New Year (Tet), where the streets are adorned with red lanterns, lion dances, firecrackers, and various cultural performances.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is another significant event, celebrated with lantern parades and mooncakes. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to witness and participate in age-old traditions and customs.
Architecture and Art
The architecture in Chinatown Saigon reflects a blend of Chinese and colonial influences. Walking through the streets, you’ll see beautifully preserved temples, assembly halls, and old shophouses. The intricate designs, colorful murals, and elaborate carvings showcase traditional Chinese artistry.
Key architectural sites like Thien Hau Temple and Nghia An Assembly Hall are perfect examples of this rich heritage. Art lovers can also explore galleries featuring Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and crafts.
Daily Life of the Local Community
Experiencing the daily life of the local community is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Chinese culture in Saigon. Early morning visits to local markets like Binh Tay Market offer a glimpse into the bustling activity as vendors set up their stalls and locals shop for fresh produce.
You can also see traditional practices, such as elders playing Chinese chess in parks or families gathering for tea at street-side cafes. Engaging with locals and observing their routines gives a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric of Chinatown.
Explore Hao Si Phuong Alley
Top Best Things To Do in Chinatown Saigon is Hao Si Phuong, a century-old alley primarily occupied by residents of Chinese heritage. This alley is famed for its striking houses, which are distinguished by their bright colors and distinctive architectural styles.
Initially built as multi-story apartments, these interconnected homes feature narrow staircases leading to compact living spaces on the upper floors. Privacy is a rare commodity here; neighbors often hang laundry between buildings, and doors are typically left open throughout the day.
Adding to the lively atmosphere are the charming coffee shops tucked between the apartments, offering a cozy retreat amidst the vibrant surroundings.
Entertainment Activities
Cafes
Chinatown Saigon has several unique cafes that blend Chinese and Vietnamese influences. These cafes often feature traditional decor, serving various beverages like Vietnamese coffee, Chinese tea, and refreshing smoothies. Some popular spots include cafes with old-school charm, wooden furniture and vintage decorations. These cafes are perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or enjoying a quiet moment amidst the bustling streets.
Outdoor Activities
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Chinatown Saigon. You can stroll through the area, exploring the narrow alleyways and discovering hidden gems.
Street markets and parks offer a lively atmosphere where you can observe daily life and interact with locals. Additionally, you can join walking tours that highlight the historical and cultural significance of the neighborhood, providing a more in-depth understanding of its rich heritage.
Entertainment Area
Chinatown Saigon also offers various entertainment venues to cater to different interests. There are traditional Chinese opera houses where you can watch performances that showcase the region’s cultural history.
For those who enjoy nightlife, some bars and clubs blend modern vibes with traditional aesthetics, offering a unique experience. You can also find karaoke bars where locals and visitors enjoy singing popular songs.
What to Buy at Cholon, Saigon?
Spices and Herbs
Cholon is a great place to buy fresh and dried spices, herbs, and traditional Chinese medicines. You’ll find a variety of flavors and aromas that are perfect for enhancing your cooking or for medicinal purposes.
Textiles and Fabrics
Colorful textiles and fabrics are abundant in Cholon. You can find traditional garments, silk fabrics, and other materials that are perfect for making custom clothing or as unique souvenirs.
Ceramics and Pottery
Beautifully crafted ceramics and pottery items are popular purchases in Cholon. These include vases, bowls, and decorative items that showcase intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
Souvenirs and Handicrafts
Cholon offers a wide range of unique souvenirs and handicrafts. From handmade jewelry to antique items, you can find special keepsakes reflecting local culture and history.
Fresh Produce
The markets in Cholon are filled with exotic fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. These fresh produce items are perfect for those who enjoy cooking or simply want to taste the local flavors.
Exploring the markets and shops in Cholon can offer unique and culturally rich items to bring home.
What to eat at Chinatown?
Dim Sum
Dim sum is a traditional Cantonese dish typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. In Cholon, you can find a variety of dim sum options, including dumplings, baozi, and wontons. These can be steamed, fried, or deep-fried, offering different textures and flavors. Steamed dim sum is tender and juicy, while fried dim sum is crispy and hot.
Popular dim sum spots in Cholon include Baoz Dimsum, Dimsum Nguyen Tien Phat, and Dimsum Tan Nguyen Thai.
Hu Tieu Sate
Cholon’s most beloved dish, Hu Tieu Sate, is a flavorful fusion of Chinese and Indian cuisines. Originating from Chaozhou and brought to Vietnam, this noodle soup comes in various forms, such as Satay beef, pork ribs, and venison. The dish features soft, chewy noodles in a rich, aromatic satay broth with tender meats and fresh vegetables.
A bowl typically costs between $0.89 and $1.33 (20,000 and 30,000 VND). Notable places to try this dish include Hu Tieu Sate Quang Ky and Hu Tieu Sate Nai To Ky.
Mi Vit Tiem
Cholon is famous for Mi Vit Tiem, a dish made from duck boiled with Chinese herbs to create a fragrant broth. The soup includes tender duck meat, chewy egg noodles, and fresh vegetables. The flavorful and aromatic broth, combined with the juicy duck, makes this dish a must-try.
You can find excellent Mi Vit Tiem at Them Huy Mi Gia among many other establishments in the area, making it easy to enjoy this delicious noodle soup.
Tips for Your Visit
- Research the best times to visit, especially during traditional festivals, for a more immersive experience.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll be walking and exploring often.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain for better prices when shopping in markets.
- Be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Chinatown Saigon, making the most of everything this fascinating area offers.
Whether you are a food enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to soak in the local culture, Cholon offers a unique and unforgettable experience. For more detailed information and travel tips, you can visit Vietnam Trails Travels. Make sure to explore Cholon for a memorable visit to Saigon!
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