Binh Tay Market, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Market in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ken Marshall

Binh Tay Market is one of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City for travellers wanting to immerse themselves in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavours of Saigon's Chinatown. Built in the 1920s by a wealthy Chinese merchant, the market sits at the heart of Cholon and blends Chinese and Vietnamese influences in both architecture and daily life. With its curved tile roofs, central courtyard, and red-and-gold detailing, it is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown.

Inside, the market is an energetic maze of narrow alleys packed with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing, housewares, and traditional snacks. The lively atmosphere and rich cultural history make this spot one of the must-see places in Ho Chi Minh City for anyone who loves markets and local experiences.

History and Significance of Binh Tay Market
Things to See and Do in Binh Tay Market
How to Get to Binh Tay Market
Practical Tips on Visiting Binh Tay Market
Where to Stay close to Binh Tay Market
Add a Is Binh Tay Market Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Binh Tay Market
Nearby Attractions to Binh Tay Market

History and Significance of Binh Tay Market

Constructed in the 1920s, Binh Tay Market was funded by a wealthy Chinese businessman named Quach Dam. The market was designed to support the growing trade community in Cholon, an area that has long been the centre of Saigon's Hoa (ethnic Chinese) population. Its architecture reflects this heritage, featuring Chinese-style rooftops, a central courtyard, and traditional motifs.

The market quickly became a major commercial hub for the city, serving both wholesalers and everyday shoppers. For generations, it has been a key symbol of cultural connection between Vietnamese and Chinese communities. A small shrine in the courtyard honours Quach Dam, reflecting the gratitude of the local merchants and the deep roots of the Hoa community.

Despite renovations over the years, Binh Tay has retained its historic character. Today, it remains one of the city’s most important trading centres and a cultural landmark that tells the story of Saigon’s multicultural history.

Things to See and Do in Binh Tay Market

Wander through the bustling ground floor, where fresh produce, herbs, spices, dried seafood, and local snacks fill the air with rich aromas. This is the best place to explore the flavours of both Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, sampling treats like dim sum, herbal teas, and traditional sweets.

Further inside, you’ll find stalls selling kitchenware, souvenirs, clothing, and household items. The market’s upstairs level offers a quieter shopping environment focused on textiles, accessories, and printed fabrics. Many visitors enjoy browsing for silk scarves, embroidered bags, and lightweight clothing.

Don’t miss the central courtyard, where the shrine dedicated to Quach Dam adds a moment of calm amid the lively market. This is also a great spot to appreciate the architectural details that make Binh Tay unique.

How to Get to Binh Tay Market

Most travellers arrive in Ho Chi Minh City through Tan Son Nhat International Airport before heading to Cholon. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) on Booking.com.

While no rail line leads directly to the market, visitors can arrive at Saigon Railway Station and continue by taxi or bus into District 6. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car or taxi is straightforward, though traffic in Cholon can be busy during peak hours. It's easy to combine Binh Tay Market with nearby pagodas and heritage streets.

Practical Tips on Visiting Binh Tay Market

Suggested tips: Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce and cooler temperatures.
Best time to visit: Morning to midday for the full market experience.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: Typically 6:00-19:00
Official website: Not available
How long to spend: Around 1-2 hours.
Accessibility: Indoor alleys can be narrow and crowded; the courtyard is more spacious.
Facilities: Restrooms, food stalls, and small cafés nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the colourful produce sections and the temple-like architecture of the courtyard.
Guided tours: Many Chinatown tours include Binh Tay Market as a main stop.
Nearby food options: Explore the surrounding streets for excellent dim sum and Chinese-Vietnamese noodle dishes.

Where to Stay close to Binh Tay Market

Cholon offers convenient accommodation for visitors who want to explore the district in depth. A comfortable option is Windsor Plaza Hotel, a modern hotel with easy access to Chinatown attractions. Another nearby choice is The Garden Hotel, ideal for travellers wanting to stay close to the market.

Add a Is Binh Tay Market Worth Visiting?

Yes, Binh Tay Market is certainly worth visiting. It provides an authentic glimpse into Saigon's Chinese-Vietnamese culture, offering everything from historic architecture to vibrant food stalls and local crafts. It's a lively, colourful, and culturally rich destination that rewards curious travellers.

FAQs for Visiting Binh Tay Market

Is Binh Tay Market the same as Ben Thanh Market?
No, Binh Tay is located in Chinatown (Cholon) and is more local-focused, while Ben Thanh is in District 1 and more tourist-oriented.

Is it crowded?
Yes, especially in the mornings, but the energy is part of its charm.

Can I bargain?
Bargaining is common, especially for non-food items.

Nearby Attractions to Binh Tay Market

Thien Hau Temple: An atmospheric 18th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu.
Quan Am Pagoda: A colourful pagoda honouring the bodhisattva of compassion.
Cha Tam Church: A historic Catholic church blending Eastern and Western architecture.
Cholon Mosque: A rare and culturally significant mosque in the district.
Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda: A richly decorated temple dedicated to the deity Quan Cong.

The Binh Tay Market appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)!

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