Everything You Need To Know About Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City
Chinatown, also known as Cholon, is a bustling and famous destination in Ho Chi Minh City. As its name suggests, when visiting Chinatown, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a miniature Hong Kong, with its distinctive Chinese architecture and culture. This is a special place that any traveler should visit in Ho Chi Minh City. Let’s explore what makes Chinatown so special with Lua Viet Tours.
Chinatown (Cholon) is a special location in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Internet)
Overview of Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City
The History of Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City
Chinatown or Cholon is a vibrant neighborhood within Ho Chi Minh City. Its roots trace back to the 18th century when Chinese traders migrated to the area, bringing their rich culture, traditions, and businesses. Over time, this settlement evolved into a bustling commercial district, renowned for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and traditional Chinese architecture.
Today, Cholon (Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City) remains a cultural and economic powerhouse. Its bustling streets are a feast for the senses, filled with the aroma of delicious Chinese cuisine, the vibrant colors of traditional markets, and the intricate details of ancient temples.
Chinatown (Cholon) – taken by French photographer Emile Gsell in 1866 (Source: Internet)
China Town’s Location
Chinatown (Cholon) is located mainly in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, on the west bank of the Saigon River, but also spills over to the east of District 6 and parts of Districts 10 and 11.
If traffic is convenient, driving from District 1 to Chinatown only takes about 10-15 minutes, you can easily take a taxi or motorbike service to get here.
5 Must-Visit Attractions in Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City
Binh Tay Market
If you’re looking to experience the true heart of Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Tay Market is a must-visit place. Unlike the more tourist-oriented Ben Thanh Market, Binh Tay Market offers a more authentic and immersive shopping experience. Here, you’ll find a vibrant array of Chinese goods, fresh produce, and delicious street food, all at local prices.
Binh Tay Market offer an authentic shopping experience (Source: Internet)
Thien Hau Temple
Thien Hau Temple is a stunning architecture gem in Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City. Dedicated to the goddess of sailors and fishermen, this temple offers a breathtaking display of Chinese cultural heritage. Admire its ornate altars, vibrant decorations, and intricate carvings as you explore this iconic landmark.
Tourists visit Thien Hau Temple in new year (Source: Internet)
Cha Tam Church
Cha Tam Church, also known as Saint Francisco Javier Church, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City. Built in a Gothic style with large, European-inspired windows, this ancient church still maintains its distinctive Chinese characteristics, including a Yin-Yang roof and a triple gate. Today, Cha Tam Church remains an active place of worship for both Vietnamese and Chinese communities.
Cha Tam Church built with Gothic style (Source: Internet)
Lantern Streets
Lantern Street, located along Luong Nhu Hoc Street, is a vibrant destination for those looking to purchase lanterns, drums, and other festive supplies. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, this street comes alive with a dazzling display of colorful lanterns, creating a bustling and festive atmosphere.
Lantern Street becomes bustling during Mid-Autumn Festival (Source: Internet)
Quan Am Pagoda
Tucked away amidst bustling food stalls, Quan Am Pagoda is a serene sanctuary in Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City. Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, this 19th-century pagoda offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Despite its modest size, Quan Am Pagoda is a visual feast, adorned with vibrant colors, intricate lacquer statues of guardian spirits, and captivating ceramic scenes depicting traditional Chinese folklore.
Quan Am Pagoda carries the spiritual beauty of the Chinese (Source: Internet)
5 Must-Try Foods in Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City
Handmade Noodles
Fans of Hong Kong cinema will be familiar with the iconic “Kungfu egg noodle”, a handmade delicacy crafted with precision and skill. These fresh noodles, unlike their mass-produced counterparts, offer a superior taste and texture that is both chewy and tender. They’re typically served with a braised duck leg or other delectable toppings like char siu, shrimp, or pork organs.
Handmade noodles with delicious topping (Source: Internet)
Fish Noodle Soup
One of the quintessential dishes of Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City, fish noodle soup offers a delightful culinary experience. Featuring wide, soft Chinese-style noodles, the soup is packed with flavor thanks to its rich broth made from pork bones and snakehead fish. Delicate slices of snakehead fish and opalescent fish complement the noodles perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The fragrant aroma of the broth alone is enough to entice your taste buds.
Fish noodle soup looks simple but is extremely rich (Source: Internet)
Dim Sum
Dim Sum has experienced a surge in popularity in Ho Chi Minh City in recent years. Chinatown has a diverse range of dim sum joints offering extensive menus featuring both classic and innovative dishes. From traditional Hong Kong dumplings filled with whole shrimp to creative creations like seafood dumplings with salted duck egg yolk, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
There are many types of dim sum served in Chinatown (Source: Internet)
Sui Cao (Jiaozi)
Sui Cao (Jiaozi), a Chinese dumpling, offers a variety of culinary delights. Whether steamed, fried, or served in a noodle soup, Jiaozi can be enjoyed in numerous ways. To cater to Vietnamese tastes, the dumpling fillings have been adapted to incorporate local ingredients. Popular options include prawns and minced pork, as well as chives and minced pork.
Jiaozi prepared in Vietnamese style (Source: Internet)
Roasted Duck
While Beijing Roast Duck is renowned worldwide, you don’t have to travel to China to enjoy this culinary delicacy. Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City offers a similar taste of Beijing-style roasted duck. However, unlike traditional Chinese restaurants, many of the roast duck stalls in Cholon prioritize takeout service.
Chinatown (Cholon) roasted duck has a similar taste to Beijing roasted duck. (Source: Internet)
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, Cholon – Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City offers an unforgettable experience for visitors coming here. Discover the hidden gems, savor the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this captivating neighborhood.
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