Chinatown - Cho Lon in Ho Chi Minh City: Temples, Markets & Food

Cho Lon, Saigon’s historic Chinatown, was formed in the 17th century when Chinese merchants settled in southern Vietnam. Over time, it developed into a major commercial hub and remains the cultural heart of the Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City today. From ancient temples and bustling markets to herbal medicine streets and family-run eateries, the district offers a unique glimpse into a different side of Saigon beyond its modern skyline. 

In this post, Vietpower Travel shares the must-visit spots, local food highlights, suggested walking routes, and practical tips to help you explore Cho Lon confidently and respectfully.

1. How to Visit Cho Lon Chinatown: Location, Transport & Best Time

Cho Lon Chinatown is located primarily in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, about 4–5 kilometers southwest of District 1. The area extends into parts of District 6 and District 11, but District 5 remains the cultural and commercial heart of Saigon’s Chinese community.

Unlike the modern skyline of downtown Saigon, Cho Lon has a distinct atmosphere - traditional shophouses, Chinese temples, herbal medicine streets, and wholesale markets define the landscape. The most recognizable landmark in the area is Binh Tay Market, often considered the center of Chinatown.

How to Get to Cho Lon Chinatown

For first-time visitors, using Grab or taxi is the easiest option. If you enjoy exploring freely and navigating local streets, renting a motorbike offers more flexibility.

Best Time to Visit Chinatown in Saigon

The best time to explore Cho Lon Chinatown is:

• Morning (8:00–10:30 AM) – Markets are active, weather is cooler, and temples are peaceful.
• Late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM) – Soft lighting makes temple courtyards and lantern streets especially photogenic.

Avoid midday (12:00–2:00 PM) due to heat and humidity.

If you want a deeper cultural experience, consider visiting during the Lantern Festival (Nguyen Tieu Festival) after Lunar New Year, when temples are filled with incense coils and vibrant celebrations.

Cho Lon is accessible year-round, but the dry season (December–April) offers the most comfortable walking conditions.

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2. Cho Lon’s Must-Visit Temples, Markets & Heritage Streets

Cho Lon is best explored slowly, allowing time to appreciate its markets, temples, and traditional streets. Below are the most important places you shouldn’t miss when visiting Saigon’s Chinatown.

Binh Tay Market – The Commercial Heart of Chinatown

Built in the 1920s, Binh Tay Market is the economic center of Cho Lon. Unlike typical Vietnamese markets, it features classic Chinese architecture with tiled roofs, a central open courtyard, and symmetrical design.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Wholesale goods and household items
• Dried seafood, spices, and traditional ingredients
• Local snacks and drinks

It’s less touristy than Ben Thanh Market and offers a more authentic trading atmosphere.

Thien Hau Temple – The Spiritual Symbol of Cho Lon

Dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, Thien Hau Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in the area. The most striking feature is the large spiral incense coils hanging from the ceiling.

The temple remains an active place of worship, especially during major festivals. Visitors should dress modestly and keep a respectful attitude inside.

Quan Am Pagoda (Hoi Quan On Lang)

Quan Am Pagoda stands out for its elaborate wood carvings and richly decorated altars. It reflects strong Cantonese cultural influence and serves as both a religious and community gathering space.

The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great stop after exploring the busy market streets.

Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street – Traditional Herbal Medicine Street

Walking along Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street offers a unique sensory experience. The air is filled with the scent of dried herbs, roots, and medicinal ingredients displayed in traditional wooden drawers and glass jars.

This street showcases centuries-old Chinese medicine traditions that are still practiced today, making it one of the most culturally distinctive areas in Cho Lon.

These landmarks represent the commercial, spiritual, and cultural essence of Cho Lon - a district where history and daily life continue to blend seamlessly.

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3. Food in Saigon Chinatown: What Is Cho Lon Famous For?

Cho Lon is one of the best places in Ho Chi Minh City to experience authentic Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine. Influenced by Cantonese, Teochew, and Fujian traditions, the food blends naturally with local flavors.

Dumplings in Ha Ton Quyen Street

Ha Ton Quyen Street is famous for its cluster of dumpling restaurants. This area is often called “dumpling street” by locals.

Expect:

• Steamed and fried dumplings
• Juicy pork and shrimp fillings
• Light soy-based dipping sauce

Prices are affordable, and most shops open from late afternoon until evening.

Che Ha Ky – Traditional Chinese Herbal Dessert

Che Ha Ky is one of the most well-known dessert spots in Cho Lon. Unlike typical Vietnamese sweet soups, these desserts often include herbal ingredients, black sesame, lotus seeds, and ginkgo nuts.

They are lightly sweet and believed to have cooling or health-supporting properties.

Roast Duck, BBQ Pork & Dim Sum

Roast duck and char siu (BBQ pork) are common sights hanging in glass-fronted eateries across District 5. These dishes are typically served with rice or egg noodles.

Dim sum is also popular in the morning, especially at traditional Cantonese-style restaurants where families gather for breakfast.

Food in Cho Lon is more than just a meal - it reflects the living heritage of the Chinese community in Saigon. Many restaurants are family-run businesses that have operated for decades, preserving recipes passed down through generations. If you want to experience Cho Lon fully, exploring its food scene is essential.

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4. Suggested 1-Day Walking Tour in Cho Lon

Exploring Cho Lon on foot is the best way to experience its markets, temples, and local streets. Below is a simple self-guided route for a relaxed half-day or full-day visit.

• Morning (8:00–11:00 AM) - Markets & Herbal Street: Start at Binh Tay Market to see the busiest trading hours. Walk through the central courtyard and wholesale sections. Then head to Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street to explore traditional herbal medicine shops with wooden drawers and dried roots.
• Midday (11:30 AM–1:00 PM) - Local Lunch: Go to Ha Ton Quyen Street for dumplings, or choose a small eatery serving roast duck and BBQ pork rice.
• Afternoon (2:00–5:00 PM) - Temples & Lantern Street: Visit Thien Hau Temple to see the hanging incense coils, then stop at Quan Am Pagoda for a quieter atmosphere. End at Luong Nhu Hoc Street, known for its colorful lantern displays.
• Total time: 4–6 hours.

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5. Local Tips for Visiting Cho Lon Like a Respectful Traveler

Cho Lon is a living community where residents work, worship, and trade daily. Keeping local customs in mind will help you enjoy a smoother and more respectful visit.

• Dress modestly when visiting temples. Cover shoulders and knees, speak softly, and avoid touching altars or religious objects.
• Ask for permission before taking photos, especially inside herbal medicine shops or traditional stores.
• Bring small cash (VND), as many local eateries and family-run shops do not accept cards.
• Visit in the morning for cooler weather and a more active market atmosphere.
• Be patient when crossing streets. Walk calmly and follow the flow of motorbikes instead of stopping suddenly.

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Conclusion

Cho Lon offers a unique glimpse into the Chinese heritage of Ho Chi Minh City, where historic temples, traditional markets, and local eateries create an atmosphere that feels both vibrant and authentic. It’s a place to slow down and experience a different side of Saigon beyond the modern skyline.

For a deeper and more comfortable journey to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietpower Travel provides guided tours that help you explore Cho Lon with local insights and well-planned route.