Buzz
Although not as famous as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Landmark 81, or Nguyen Hue Walking Street, these lesser-known spots in Saigon boast unique beauty that guarantees an unforgettable experience at first visit.
“China Town” District in Saigon
In other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia..., the Chinese people have formed communities and been living and trading for a long time with a distinctive Chinese cultural architectural style, these areas are called China Towns.
In Saigon, although not specifically named, an area where the Chinese reside and conduct business bears similarities to Chinatowns elsewhere. Exploring here unveils the unique cultural and culinary essence of the Chinese people.
Saigon's Chinatown spans across District 5 and District 10, notably adorned with bustling food streets at the heart of these districts.
The Chinese enclave in Saigon. Photo: Internet
Beyond culinary delights, Saigon's Chinese enclaves boast numerous architectural gems reminiscent of China, such as Ba Thien Hau Pagoda, Nghia An Assembly Hall, Binh Tay Market, and the Chinese residential area near Binh Tay Market.
Visitors are guaranteed to capture stunning photos here, surrounded by houses showcasing Chinese architecture from the 80s and 90s.
A Chinese-style temple in District 5. Photo: Internet
Cafes in the Pho Di Bo apartment complex
When mentioning lesser-known spots in Saigon, surely the cafes in the old apartment buildings facing Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street are a fantastic suggestion on this list.
Nestled beside the most beautiful pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City, surrounded by skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and cafes in old apartment buildings exuding a simple, retro charm. These cafes preserve the essence of old Saigon for generations of 70s and 90s Saigonese.
Visiting these high-rise cafes, you'll find a hint of the unusual tranquility of Saigon, the city that never sleeps.
Old apartment cafes along Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street. Photo: Internet
Gò Vấp Train Station
When railway stations are mentioned, most people think of Saigon Railway Station without knowing about another equally ancient and eerie station located in Ho Chi Minh City's Gò Vấp District.
Although no longer operational for passenger services, Gò Vấp Station retains its railway tracks and old working areas. With walls adorned with the hues of time, a vintage and profoundly nostalgic ambiance, Gò Vấp Station is undeniably a trendy check-in spot for photography enthusiasts.
Photo taken at Gò Vấp Station. Photo: Internet
Old apartment complexes
For young individuals or enthusiasts of the old, quaint Saigon or those who appreciate serene spaces steeped in the dust of time, old apartment complexes nestled amidst the glamorous city are unmissable destinations. These places in Saigon are seldom known but evoke a strong sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
When it comes to old apartment buildings still bustling with activity in Ho Chi Minh City, names like:
- Lý Tự Trọng Apartment Building
- Tôn Thất Đạm Apartment Building
- Pasteur Apartment Building
- Nguyễn Chí Thanh Apartment Building
- Sư Vạn Hạnh Apartment Building
- Apartment Building near Ben Thanh Market
Old apartment complexes in Saigon. Photo: Internet
Saigon Urban Flea Market
Saigon Urban Flea Market is a highly renowned market for enthusiasts of 'sidas'. Those with a penchant for hunting quality secondhand items imported from abroad must visit Saigon Urban Flea Market in Saigon.
Although little known, this market boasts the advantage of having a loyal and stable customer base.
Most aficionados of secondhand branded items have unique fashion tastes, diverging from the mainstream. Hence, Saigon Urban Flea Market stands out as one of Saigon's lesser-known spots, which comes as no surprise.
What draws people back here is the Saigon Urban Flea Market, which hosts evening singing programs. Additionally, there are many intriguing street food stalls serving delicious treats.
Si goods market in Saigon. Photo: Internet
3A Train Station
Located on the riverside street of Bach Dang – Ton Duc Thang, 3A Train Station is a little-known spot in Saigon, but anyone who has been here is mesmerized by its unique blend of classical and modern Western architecture.
As it's no longer operational, the walls of 3A Train Station in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, have become a canvas for street artists to create unique and fresh graffiti artworks in various styles, from classical to modern, with eye-catching colors. This makes it an excellent spot for photography.
For those passionate about hip-hop style, rock enthusiasts, or anyone who loves dynamism, energy, and constant movement, 3A Train Station on Ton Duc Thang Street is an unmissable spot in Saigon. Here, you also have the opportunity to visit the Bach Dang River to catch the first sunrise in bustling Ho Chi Minh City.
Graffiti walls at 3A Train Station. Photo: Internet
Saigon Water Bus
Adjacent to 3A Train Station and also located on Ton Duc Thang Street, Saigon Water Bus is a new tourist destination in Ho Chi Minh City, which is why not many people know about it and visit. Built like a bus station, Saigon Water Bus is the terminal for the water bus route on the Bach Dang River.
Currently, the fare for a route from Bach Dang pier to Mien Dong Bus Station and Thanh Da pier, Binh Thanh District, is only 15,000 VND per trip/person.
The yellow water bus stands out. Photo: Internet
Constructed on the site of the old Bach Dang Park, Saigon Water Bus exudes modern beauty with green architecture, aiming for spaciousness as it is primarily decorated with toughened glass.
At the water bus pier, you can not only capture romantic photos by the river but also experience the feeling of gliding on the water, watching the sunrise or sunset on the Saigon River.
Mong Bridge
From the water bus pier at Bach Dang Park, it's just over 1km to Mong Bridge. This bridge connects District 1 and District 2 with a length of a few hundred meters.
With its deep green color and iron material, Mong Bridge brings a very Western, vintage yet elegant feel. Due to its relative height, standing in the middle of Mong Bridge, you can admire District 1 with its luxurious towering buildings on one side, while on the other side is District 2, developing along the romantic, sentimental Saigon River.
Moreover, from around 3 to 5 p.m., depending on the season, Mong Bridge becomes an excellent spot to admire the bustling, vibrant sunset amidst the lively hustle and bustle of Saigon.
Sunset at Mong Bridge. Photo: Internet
These are the hidden gems in Saigon that offer unique, distinctive, and refreshing beauty amid the luxurious, bustling cityscape. One of these spots is also a wonderful place to watch the sunrise and sunset in Saigon, which may seem impossible or challenging due to the city's countless high-rise buildings.
Hopefully, these lesser-known spots will provide you with moments of tranquility, relaxing spaces to unwind from the stress and fatigue of busy work life in the heart of the city. Moreover, these places are also perfect for romantic dates with your loved ones or friends due to their peaceful, less-visited ambiance.
