Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City: A Cultural and Historical Enclave

Table of contents

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon, is the bustling economic hub of Vietnam. Amidst the fast-paced life of this vibrant city, one historical district stands out—Chinatown, or "Chợ Lớn." This area, located in District 5, is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and commerce that has been evolving for centuries. It’s a place where the enduring legacy of the Chinese community continues to flourish, providing an immersive cultural experience that captures the heart and soul of HCMC.

The history of Chinatown in HCMC

Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City traces its roots back to the late 17th century, when waves of Chinese immigrants, mostly from the Guangdong and Fujian provinces, sought refuge in southern Vietnam due to political instability and economic hardship in China. These early settlers, known as the Hoa people, initially took residence in the area now recognized as District 5. Over time, the small settlement grew into a bustling community, which would become the largest Chinatown not only in Vietnam but also in the world

Saigon Chinatown - Chợ lớn or big market of Chinese people The name says it all - the biggest market in Saigon, serves as a trading hub

Referred to locally "Chợ Lớn" which translates to "Big Market” is a fitting description given the area's historical role as a bustling commercial center. Over the centuries, Chợ Lớn developed into a thriving hub of trade, especially in rice, textiles, and traditional Chinese goods. The Hoa people created economic development in the region, and their influence is still strongly evident in the area's architecture, cuisine, and traditional cultural practices.

The cultural fabric of Chinatown

When visiting Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City, you will witness how the tapestry of Chinese and Vietnamese cultures have woven together over centuries. The area is home to a large population of ethnic Chinese, and this cultural diversity is reflected in the neighborhood's temples, markets, food, and street life.

Thien Hau Temple - one of the oldest Saigon temple you don’t want to miss

One of the most striking features of Chinatown is its architecture, plastered with vibrant colors. The area is painted with historic Chinese temples, pagodas, and shophouses that showcase traditional Chinese design elements. The Thien Hau Pagoda located on Nguyen Trai Street is dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of Sea Mazu and is one of the most prominent religious sites in Chợ Lớn. Built in 1760 by the Cantonese community, the temple is a beautiful example of southern Chinese architecture, boasting intricate wood carvings, ornate altars, and colorful ceramic figurines.

Another significant site is the Quan Am Pagoda, dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy and embodiment of compassion, Guanyin. This temple holds deep significance for the local Chinese people, acting as a spiritual center that captivates visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and impressive statues. The pagoda's architecture blends Chinese and Vietnamese styles, reflecting the cultural synthesis that defines Chinatown.

Fun fact! Join our Saigon Secret’s tour and you’ll get to experience these temples!

Quan Am Pagoda - represents the essence of Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City
Quan Am Pagoda - the sacred local community hub that represents the essence of Chinatown

In addition to the temples, Chinatown is home to Cha Tam Church, also known as Saint Francis Xavier Parish Church, which holds a unique place in the history of the local Chinese community. Built in the early 20th century, Cha Tam Church is the first church for the Catholic parishioners of the Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City. This historical site stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of the Chinese people in the region.

Like many well known areas in Saigon, Chinatown is also known for its bustling markets. You can find a wide array of goods ranging from traditional Chinese medicine to fresh produce and household items. The Binh Tay Market, spanning over four streets in District 6, is the largest in Chợ Lớn. Originally built in 1928 by Chinese merchant Quach Dam (also known as Thong Hiep), the market is a lively place where over 1,400 stalls attract locals and visitors alike to come to shop, eat, and experience the lively atmosphere of Chinatown.

Did someone say dumplings?

The food scene in Chinatown is a foodie's paradise, offering up a diverse range of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Street stalls and traditional Chinese restaurants serve up everything from dumplings, dim sum, and roast duck (drooling, yet?) to pho and banh mi, an ode to the fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese culinary traditions. If you're a fan of street food, you'll love the vibrant offerings available at every corner, where you can sample fresh, flavorful dishes that reflect the heart of both cultures.

A must-try dish in Chinatown is hủ tiếu. The dish features rice noodles in a savory broth, topped with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. You may notice there are a variety of versions of hủ tiếu which is a perfect example of how Chinese immigrants have contributed to the local cuisine. They have created dishes that have been adapted by and are now integral to Vietnamese food culture.

dumplings, noodles and roasted meat are specialties in Chinese cuisine Welcome to Mini Hong Kong - where you can find the best food in Ho Chi Minh City

You can’t visit Chinatown without devouring Chinese-style roasted meats! Char siu (barbecue pork) and Peking duck are served with steamed rice or in banh mi sandwiches. These dishes are prepared by local Chinese families who have passed down their recipes through generations, meaning the flavors remain authentic and true to their origins.

Where commerce meets tradition

While Chinatown offers centuries of cultural and historical significance, it continues to operate as a bustling commercial district. The area is home to numerous businesses, ranging from traditional herbal medicine shops to modern electronics stores. The entrepreneurial spirit of the Chinese community is evident in the numerous small businesses that line the streets of Chợ Lớn, many of which have been passed down through generations.

Interested in Eastern medicine? Take a trip down the streets of Chinatown where you can find apothecaries and herbal medicine shops offering remedies for various ailments. You can also find a wide range of herbs, dried mushrooms, and other natural ingredients, reflecting the importance of traditional medicine in Chinese culture.

Let Vespa A Go Go show you Chinatown!

We make sure to give you the best authentic experience of the Vietnamese-Chinese culture!

Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City is more than just a neighborhood; it is a thriving testament to the cultural diversity within Vietnam. From its historic temples and busy markets to its mouthwatering culinary scene, Chợ Lớn offers a unique glimpse into the Chinese-Vietnamese experience. Book a tour and let us show you the vibrance of Chinatown!

Travel Tips