Celebrating the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival: A Cultural Gem in Saigon

A Tribute to Saigon’s Artisanal Legacy
Held annually at Lê Châu Temple, 586 Trần Hưng Đạo, Ward 5, the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival honors Kim Hoan, the legendary founder of Southern Vietnam’s jewelry trade. On the 6th–8th days of the second lunar month, this intimate festival gathers jewelers from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 5, Thu Duc, and Vung Tau Ward to offer incense, share trade insights, and celebrate with traditional Cải Lương opera. In Saigon’s vibrant 6,772 km² megacity, this event showcases the craftsmanship that defines the city’s cultural heritage, blending spiritual rituals with modern networking in the historic Cholon district. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, offer sustainable access to this unique celebration, supporting local artisans. Join the festivities—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including District 5 now Ward 5 (web:1, web:6, web:24). This expansion enhances the festival’s reach, drawing jewelers from new wards like Vung Tau and Thu Duc, with improved connectivity via Metro Line 1 and cycling paths, linking Ward 5’s Cholon to Ward 1’s urban core and coastal Can Gio. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1, ~3 km from the festival site.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival and Saigon’s cultural landmarks. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by experts sharing the festival’s artisanal significance. Supporting communities in Ward 1, Ward 5, and Thu Duc, we align with Saigon’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and celebrate sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Held at Lê Châu Temple, 586 Trần Hưng Đạo, Ward 5, ~3 km southwest of Ward 1, the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival occurs on the 6th–8th days of the second lunar month (typically mid-March) in Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical savanna climate: dry season (December–April, 25–33°C or 77–91.4°F) and rainy season (May–November, 25–32°C or 77–89.6°F, 150–400 mm monthly rainfall). This niche festival honors Kim Hoan, a revered figure in Southern Vietnam’s jewelry trade, through incense offerings, Cải Lương performances, and trade networking. Free to attend with donations ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND), it draws local jewelers and a small but growing number of cultural tourists to Cholon’s vibrant streets. Accessible via Metro Line 1, it’s a highlight of Ward 5’s cultural scene, near landmarks like Thien Hau Pagoda.

• When: 6th–8th days of the second lunar month (typically mid-March, e.g., March 14–16 depending on the lunar calendar).

• Where: Lê Châu Temple, 586 Trần Hưng Đạo, Ward 5, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly District 5).

• Purpose: To honor Kim Hoan, the legendary founder of Southern Vietnam’s jewelry trade, through spiritual rituals and professional networking.

• Access: Free entry; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, with peak rituals from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.

Tip: Confirm the lunar date annually; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided access and insights into the festival’s traditions.

The Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival offers a rich cultural experience:

• Incense Offerings (10:00 AM): Jewelers present incense at Lê Châu Temple’s altar, praying for prosperity and honoring Kim Hoan, accompanied by traditional chants.

• Cải Lương Performances (11:00 AM–1:00 PM): Enjoy Southern Vietnam’s iconic opera, with local artists performing tales of craftsmanship and heritage, staged in the temple courtyard.

• Jewelry Trade Networking (12:00 PM–2:00 PM): Artisans from Ward 5, Thu Duc, and Vung Tau exchange techniques and showcase gold and gemstone designs, fostering industry collaboration.

• Craft Displays: Browse stalls with handmade jewelry, from gold necklaces to jade rings ($10–$100 or 250,000–2,500,000 VND), offering a glimpse into Saigon’s artisanal trade.

• Cultural Stalls: Sample local snacks like bánh tét ($1 or 25,000 VND) and Vietnamese iced coffee ($1 or 25,000 VND) from nearby vendors.

• Guided Tours: Join our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for expert-led exploration of the festival, paired with visits to Cholon’s culinary and cultural sites.

Tip: Arrive by 10:00 AM for the opening rituals; bring a camera for vibrant performance shots, respecting temple etiquette.

Lê Châu Temple at 586 Trần Hưng Đạo, Ward 5, is accessible from Saigon’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Ward 5 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #109 to Trần Hưng Đạo: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting to Lê Châu Temple:

• Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (3 km away), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), then 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Bus #109: Stops at Trần Hưng Đạo, 100m walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 5; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from Ward 1. Use Vinasun or Mai Linh.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Ward 5’s flat streets.

• Walking: 10-minute walk from Thien Hau Pagoda (700m).

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided transport.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–33°C or 77–91.4°F), ideal for enjoying the festival’s outdoor performances and Cholon’s vibrant streets during the mid-March event. Tet (January–February) precedes the festival, adding festive energy but busier crowds. The rainy season (May–November) brings cooler temperatures (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with short showers manageable under temple awnings. Morning visits (8:00 AM–11:00 AM) capture the opening rituals and quieter ambiance, while midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) offers lively Cải Lương shows.

Tip: Visit mornings for serene temple rituals; confirm lunar dates annually. Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for March.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jacket for rainy season. Modest attire (covered shoulders, long pants) for temple respect.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for Cholon walks.

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for navigating streets; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, Grab app, portable charger, camera for photos (respect temple rules).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for donations and purchases.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for donations and snacks; bring a notebook to record cultural observations.

1. Thien Hau Pagoda, Ward 5

A 10-minute walk to 710 Nguyen Trai, this 1760 Chinese temple features intricate ceramic figurines and yin-yang roofs.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Visit during Tet for lion dances; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Binh Tay Market, Ward 5

A 5-minute walk to 57A Thap Muoi, this 1928 market offers Chinese-style architecture and local cuisine.

• Cost: Free; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Try bánh xèo; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

3. Notre-Dame Basilica, Ward 1

A 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND) to 1 Cong Xa Paris, this 1880 basilica is a colonial landmark.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Capture the facade; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

4. Independence Palace, Ward 1

A 12-minute Grab to 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, this 1966 palace marks Vietnam’s reunification.

• Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Explore the bunker; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

5. War Remnants Museum, Ward 3

A 10-minute Grab to 28 Vo Van Tan, this museum details Vietnam’s war history.

• Cost: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Allow 2 hours; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

Festival Costs

• Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Food Stalls: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Jewelry Crafts: $10–$100 (250,000–2,500,000 VND).

Transportation

• Metro Line 1: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Bus #109: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 5; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from Ward 1.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby)

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Ward 5 or Ward 1)

• Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes donations, metro, street food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are widespread in Ward 5.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead for mid-March.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season (December–April): Use sunscreen; visit mornings for cooler temple visits (25–33°C or 77–91.4°F).

  • Rainy Season (May–November): Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); use temple awnings during showers (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F).

• Bargaining: Negotiate politely for jewelry crafts; start at 50% of quoted prices.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in Cholon; use crossbody bags.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles; support local vendors for snacks like bánh tét.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Lê Châu Temple (586 Trần Hưng Đạo, Ward 5) as a landmark.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; maintain silence during rituals; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip performers $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); choose busy food stalls for hygiene.

Our sustainable tours showcase the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival and Saigon’s heritage:

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival, Thien Hau Pagoda, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival, Binh Tay Market, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Cultural Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival, Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangrove Forest. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

The Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival at Lê Châu Temple in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 5 is a vibrant celebration of Saigon’s artisanal heritage, blending incense offerings, Cải Lương opera performances, and jewelry trade networking. Held in the heart of Cholon, this festival honors the goldsmith tradition along Nhieu Tam and Nghia Thuc streets, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and cultural pride. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through this cultural gem, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience that explores nearby Cholon attractions like Binh Tay Market and supports local artisans across the city’s vibrant districts. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly Saigon cultural adventure today!
Ready to celebrate Saigon’s jewelry legacy at the Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in its timeless traditions

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Jewelry Industry Anniversary Festival Information: en.vietnamplus.vn, vietnam.travel, scootersaigontour.com, viator.com