Why to visit Chợ Lớn (Saigon Chinatown)
The most famous and extensive Chinatown in Vietnam, this market has a reputation for its traditional Chinese products, herbal medicines, silk fabrics, antiques, and handicraft souvenirs. It is the best place for buying Chinese tea, lanterns, and ceramics.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when it is not too hectic. Price: 50,000 to 1,000,000 VND.
- Haggling: Very rampant, especially in small local stands and street vendors.
- Average Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours of strolling and dining.
Street Food Stalls
- Best Time: For authentic Chinese-Vietnamese street foods, even at night.
- Cost: Dim sum, wonton noodles, and roast duck dishes range from 30,000 to 100,000 VND.
Local Produce
Chợ Lớn represents a very vibrant marketplace for fresh produce, fruits, and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs.
Average Length: 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on exploration.
Other Activities Around Chợ Lớn:
- See Binh Tay Market: one of the most famous wholesale markets in Chinatown.
- Check out Thien Hau Temple: an elegantly beautiful temple for the sea goddess Mazu.
- Chinese Culture: traditional calligraphy and lion dances can be seen during festivals.
Places to Visit Locally:
- Binh Tay Market: 1 km
- Thien Hau Temple: 800 meters
- Cholon Mosque: 1.2 km
Distance from Hotspot:
Distance Walking: Binh Tay Market: 10 minutes, Thien Hau Temple: 8 minutes
