Self-Guided Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown (with maps)!

Situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown (Chợ Lớn), Binh Tay Market is a lively and historic landmark. With origins tracing back to the late 19th century, this bustling market has long served as a dynamic center for trade and cultural interaction. Inside, visitors can browse a diverse assortment of goods, from fresh produce and spices to textiles, handicrafts, and more. The market’s energetic atmosphere offers a fully immersive experience, where the sounds, scents, and sights come together to give a genuine glimpse into local culture and daily life in this iconic part of the city.

Cha Tam Church, also known as St. Francis Xavier Church, is a tranquil and charming Catholic church located in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. The church’s exterior is lovely, set within a peaceful courtyard that offers a serene escape from the lively streets surrounding it. Inside, the church features several Chinese design elements, blending architectural styles and cultural influences. Today, Vietnam is home to approximately 7 million Catholics, and Cha Tam Church remains a significant place of worship and cultural heritage for the local community.

Ong Bon Temple (Nhi Phu Temple) is a historic and culturally significant Chinese temple dedicated to the deity Ong Bon, known for bringing prosperity and protection to the community. Built in the late 19th century, the temple’s architecture is a striking blend of traditional Chinese design, featuring intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and ornate details. Inside, visitors can admire numerous statues and offerings, while the smell of incense fills the air, adding to the temple’s peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Ong Bon Temple remains an important place of worship for the local Chinese-Vietnamese community and is a must-visit for those wanting to explore the cultural and religious heritage of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown.

Minh Huong Gia Thanh Hoi Quan, or the Assembly Hall of the Minh Huong Congregation, is a historic temple established by Chinese immigrants from Fujian in the early 18th century. Dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau, the protector of seafarers, this beautifully preserved temple showcases intricate southern Chinese architecture, with its sculpted roof featuring dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical figures. Inside, visitors can admire detailed ceramic reliefs, wooden carvings, and altars illuminated by red lanterns and incense coils. Minh Huong Gia Thanh Hoi Quan serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural gathering space, especially during traditional Chinese festivals, offering insight into the vibrant heritage of the city’s Chinese-Vietnamese community.

Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda, is a beautifully ornate temple dedicated to the goddess of fertility. With its intricate decorations and peaceful ambiance, the pagoda is a significant place of worship for many, especially women who come to pray for blessings related to childbirth and family. The temple’s vibrant design, featuring traditional Chinese architectural elements, creates a serene space for both spiritual devotion and cultural reflection within the bustling Chinatown area.

Ba Thien Hau Temple, dating back to around 1760, is a historic and significant temple situated in the heart of Chinatown, making it the most important temple in the Cholon district. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and ornate interior, filled with numerous statues and the pervasive scent of incense. Dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess, the temple holds deep significance for the local community, particularly for migrants who arrived by sea.

Lantern Street, located along Luong Nhu Hoc Street in Ho Chi Minh City, is a vibrant and colorful destination renowned for its abundance of traditional lanterns and festive items. The street comes alive, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival, when the area is filled with beautifully crafted lanterns in various shapes and vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering not just lanterns, but also other traditional festival items like drums, toys, and mooncakes. The lively energy of the street, combined with the rich cultural heritage of the Mid-Autumn Festival, makes Lantern Street a must-visit place to experience the festive spirit and the craftsmanship of local artisans in Ho Chi Minh City.

Quan Am Pagoda, a beautiful and historically rich temple, is dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, Quan Am. Established in the early 1800s, it holds significant cultural and spiritual importance within Ho Chi Minh City’s Cholon district. The temple is known for its serene atmosphere, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Chinatown. Its architecture reflects traditional Chinese and Vietnamese design elements, with intricate carvings, bright colors, and elaborate statues of Quan Am and other deities. The pagoda is a place of worship, where locals come to seek guidance, comfort, and blessings from the goddess.

Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda is a vibrant and intricately decorated Confucian temple located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s Cholon district. Dedicated to a Chinese General, this historic pagoda pays homage to his military prowess and wisdom. As you explore the colorful interior, you’ll find a fascinating mix of symbolism and cultural elements, including traditional Chinese military artifacts such as weapons, which provide a glimpse into the temple’s martial heritage. The pagoda’s design is a beautiful fusion of Confucianism and Taoism, with vibrant hues, intricate carvings, and detailed statues that bring the space to life.

Nghĩa An Hội Quán is a historically significant Chinese temple, dedicated to the Chinese deity, the God of Earth. Built in the 19th century, the temple showcases traditional Chinese architectural elements, with vibrant decorations, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere that reflects its cultural and spiritual importance. The temple’s main altar is devoted to the God of Earth, and it is a place where locals come to offer prayers and seek blessings for prosperity and protection. Nghĩa An Hội Quán also serves as a cultural hub for the Chinese-Vietnamese community, hosting festivals, ceremonies, and gatherings, making it a key stop for anyone exploring the deep-rooted heritage of Chinatown.

Cholon Mosque, built in 1932 by the Vietnamese Tamil Muslim community, stands as a peaceful retreat within Cholon. This mosque is modestly designed, adorned with calming blue and green tones that give it a serene ambiance, contrasting with the vibrant surroundings of Cholon. Primarily serving Malaysian and Indonesian Muslims in the city, the mosque is a welcoming space for prayer, community gatherings, and cultural exchange. Visitors are invited to experience its tranquil atmosphere, providing a unique glimpse into the lives and practices of Ho Chi Minh City’s diverse Muslim community.

Hao Si Phuong Alley is a quiet, charming spot that offers a unique insight into local life away from the city’s main tourist attractions. The narrow alleyway is lined with traditional houses, small shops, and local eateries, creating an authentic atmosphere. It’s a peaceful place to explore on foot, offering a glimpse of everyday Vietnamese life in a less commercialized part of the city. The alley’s calm and nostalgic vibe stands in stark contrast to the busy streets of central Ho Chi Minh City, making it a hidden gem for those looking for a more intimate experience.