Overview
Cholon, also known as Saigon Chinatown, is the largest Chinatown in Vietnam and one of the most vibrant cultural areas in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers a rich blend of Chinese-Vietnamese culture, historic temples, bustling markets, and delicious street food.
Cholon is a historic and cultural hub that showcases the unique fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese heritage, attracting both locals and tourists.
Location
Address
District 5, Ho Chi Minh
Neighborhood: Cholon
Coordinates
10.768700, 106.660200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November-February
Best Time of Day
Morning
less crowded
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and sunny
- • Festival decorations
- • flower markets
summer
hot and humid
- • opening hours extended
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • cool weather
- • harvest season
winter
cool and dry
- • festive lights
- • holiday markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Bargain at markets
- Bring cash
- Respect customs
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • stay hydrated
- • watch for pickpockets
Medical facilities: local clinics available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards in some places
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, modest clothing for temples, comfortable walking shoes, revealing clothing for temples
Booking Tips
- • not usually required
- • online travel guides
- • not applicable
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Ho Chi Minh City Guide
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Attractions, Restaurant recommendations
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: some cafes and shops
Charging Stations: limited availability
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich cultural heritage and vibrant community
Historical Significance: Historically a center for Chinese-Vietnamese trade and culture
Insider Tips
- Best bargains early morning
- Try local street food at night
Local Recommendations
- • Try Banh Xeo (savory pancake)
- • Visit Thien Hau Temple
- • Shop at Binh Tay Market
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Vietnamese, Chinese, English
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Thien Hau Temple
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Capture the intricate details of the temple
Result: Beautiful architecture shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ben Thanh Market
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Market
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Distance: 3km
Walking: 35 min
Type: Cathedral
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early"
- "Try local food"
- "Bargain at markets"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
95
Rating
4.3 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free