Discover the Modern Oasis of Saigon: A Local’s Guide to District 7

While many visitors stick to the buzzing heart of District 1, those in the know are quietly making their way south - to District 7, Saigon’s cleanest, greenest, and calmest neighborhood. Often nicknamed "Singapore of Saigon or Korea Town" District 7 is a polished mix of urban planning, wide boulevards, and stylish living, yet it still holds onto the vibrancy that makes Vietnam so captivating.

This district is where new meets old in the most graceful way, where upscale shopping malls sit just a few blocks from mom-and-pop noodle shops, and modern architecture shares space with quiet canals.

The History of District 7

An aerial perspective of District 7's landscape

District 7 may feel sleek and contemporary, but it also has roots that run deep. Before the gleaming towers and international schools, this area was made up of fishing villages, mangrove forests, and small rural communities living off the water.

Established in 1997, one of the district’s oldest quarters is Tan Quy, where you’ll still find narrow alleyways, small shops and eateries, and generations of families who’ve lived here since long before the rise of Phu My Hung.

The biggest shift came in the late 1990s, with the birth of the Phu My Hung urban development project, a collaboration between Vietnam and Taiwan. Today, this master-planned zone is seen as a model of modern urban development in Southeast Asia, complete with green space, drainage systems, and organized infrastructure.

Yet, even amid all this modernity, District 7’s history lives on, if you know where to look. Explore the quieter corners of Tan Kieng area along the canal and you’ll find the remnants of old Saigon life, peacefully coexisting with the new.

Interesting Things to Do and Hidden Gems in District 7

Crescent Lake at sunset

District 7 is full of surprises — beyond its modern face lie hidden gems, serene escapes, and cool local experiences.

Start at the Crescent Walk and Crescent Lake (Hồ Bán Nguyệt) — a gorgeous pedestrian area with a large walking path, swan boats on the water, and a photogenic moon-shaped bridge. It’s especially magical at night, when the skyline reflects off the water and locals come out to jog or stroll.

For something a little more underground, visit Saigon Soul, a quirky hidden bar along the canal, which will transport you back in time to the 90s of Saigon. Enjoy a tasty sip of cocktails by the river while grooving to their soulful tunes.

Or dig even deeper — walk along Rạch Bàng Canal, where older neighborhoods survive amid the shiny condos. You’ll see mom and pop shops, local eateries, tiny convenience stores, and residents chatting on the streets like they’ve done for decades.

Characteristics of District 7

Anh Trang Park

What sets District 7 apart is its uniquely livable character — a rarity in the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Think: order, space, greenery, and calm.

With its wide roads, functional sidewalks, and master-planned design, District 7 offers a glimpse of what future Saigon could look like. The difference is immediately noticeable — less honking, more walking. Less smog, more sky.

Phu My Hung is the heart of this urban oasis, with its manicured parks, shaded playgrounds, and safe streets that draw young families and professionals alike. It’s not just expat-friendly, it’s a favorite among young Vietnamese and entrepreneurs looking for a more balanced city life.

Chateau Villa

But beyond the polished image lies a quieter vibrancy. Morning local markets still bustle with life. Alleyways still carry the smell of simmering broth. Street vendors still know your order by heart.

District 7’s charm lies in its contrast: modern yet grounded, luxurious yet warm. It’s a district that’s been shaped by the future, but still deeply connected to its roots.

What to Eat in District 7

If you’re wondering what to eat in District 7, the answer is: everything. This area is a melting pot of flavors, from world-class Korean BBQ to humble bowls of Pho served curbside.

The Korean community here is large and active, especially in Phu My Hung neighborhood, so don’t miss an authentic BBQ experience at places like Marduk or similar restaurants in the surrounding area. Korean bakeries such as Artisan or Paris Baguette are perfect for a sweet treat or coffee break.

For Vietnamese cuisine, check out Pho Vietnam, a Michelin guide nominated restaurant, or if you feel adventurous, give the “Ốc” (translated to snails, which actually is a sign for seafood) restaurants, a local favorite where you can feast on snails, scallops, and clams with spicy dipping sauces, and different kind of snails for the adventurous ones, while vegetarians and health-conscious travelers will love Golden Lotus Vegan Restaurant, offering creative plant-based dishes in a cozy setting.

Korean restaurant in District 7

Whether you’re biking by the river, sipping coffee under a banyan tree, or watching dragonflies dance over a canal, you’ll feel something rare here: space. Not just physical space, but mental space.

Quick Tips for Visiting District 7:

A memorable trip for guests and the Vespa A Go Go team

Getting there: Grab bikes or cars are the easiest from downtown. It's about 15–25 minutes from District 1, depending on traffic.
Best times to explore: Early mornings and evenings are cooler and great for outdoor walks.
Language: Many residents and staff in Phu My Hung speak basic English or Korean, but Vietnamese is always appreciated!
Dress comfortably: Lightweight clothes, walking shoes, and a hat are ideal for all the strolling you’ll do.
Hidden bonus: Our Dining Delights tour will take you to see the nightlife of the locals in District 7, along with 5 other districts, and enjoy tasty Vietnamese style BBQ, grilled right at the table.

Conclusion:

In a city known for its chaos and color, District 7 is a beautiful paradox: organized yet spontaneous, modern yet soulful, polished yet real. It may not be the first district you visit in Saigon, but it’s often the one that makes people say: “I could live here.”

So don’t just come for the malls or brunches. Come for the moments. The parks. The people. The surprising beauty of stillness in a city that never stops moving.

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