Exploring the Ancient Chinese Architecture of Cholon: A Cultural Gem in Ho Chi Minh City

A Fusion of Heritage and History
Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant Chinatown in Ward 5, is a cultural treasure trove, renowned for its over 100-year-old shophouses and temples blending ancient Chinese, French, and Vietnamese architectural styles. Centered along Tran Hung Dao, Chau Van Liem, and Luong Nhu Hoc streets, this historic enclave, established by Chinese immigrants in the 17th century, captivates with landmarks like Thien Hau Pagoda, built in 1760. In a 6,772 km² megacity, Cholon’s intricate ceramic-tiled roofs and ornate temples offer a glimpse into Saigon’s multicultural past, drawing global travelers. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, provide a sustainable way to explore this architectural marvel, supporting local communities. Immerse in Cholon’s heritage—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. This reorganization enhances Cholon’s accessibility with upgraded cycling paths, electric buses, and Metro Line 1, connecting Ward 5’s cultural hub to Thu Duc’s modern districts and Can Gio’s eco-attractions. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to Cholon’s architectural landmarks. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by experts sharing Saigon’s Chinese heritage. Supporting communities in Ward 5, Ward 1, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’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 explore sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Located in Ward 5, ~4 km southwest of Ward 1, Cholon is Ho Chi Minh City’s historic Chinatown, thriving in a tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). Established by Chinese immigrants in the 17th century, Cholon’s architecture blends over 100-year-old Chinese shophouses with French colonial influences, seen in ornate facades along Tran Hung Dao and temples like Thien Hau Pagoda, open 6:00 AM–5:00 PM. Featuring triple-gate entrances, ceramic figurines, and yin-yang tile roofs, these structures reflect Cantonese and Fujianese styles. Accessible via Metro Line 1, Cholon’s architectural gems, near landmarks like Binh Tay Market, captivate visitors seeking Saigon’s cultural heritage.

Cholon’s ancient Chinese architecture, over 100 years old, is a harmonious blend of Cantonese, Fujianese, and French influences, characterized by:

• Shophouses: Two-story buildings along Tran Hung Dao and Chau Van Liem, with narrow fronts (4–5 m), deep interiors (20–30 m), and open courtyards for ventilation. Facades feature Chinese calligraphy, French-style arches, and vibrant colors.

• Temples: Thien Hau Pagoda (1760) at 710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 5, showcases a triple-gate entrance, ceramic figurines depicting myths, and yin-yang tile roofs, crafted by local Chinese artisans. Other temples, like Quan Cong Pagoda, feature upturned eaves and dragon motifs.

• French Influences: Balconies with wrought-iron railings and pastel shutters, reflecting colonial aesthetics from the 19th century.

• Cultural Elements: Incense altars, lotus motifs, and feng shui-aligned layouts, embodying Chinese spiritual principles.

Preserved despite urban growth, these structures highlight Cholon’s role as Saigon’s Chinese cultural hub, drawing architectural enthusiasts and cultural travelers.

Cholon’s architectural complex in Ward 5 is best explored in 4–6 hours, focusing on key sites:

• Thien Hau Pagoda: Visit this 1760 temple for its triple-gate entrance, ceramic figurines, and spiral incense coils, a spiritual hub for Cantonese communities (free entry, donations $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).

• Shophouse Streets: Stroll Tran Hung Dao, Chau Van Liem, and Luong Nhu Hoc to admire century-old shophouses, blending Chinese and French styles, ideal for photography.

• Quan Cong Pagoda: Explore this 19th-century temple at 24 Hai Thuong Lan Ong, Ward 5, for its dragon-adorned roofs and red altars (free entry, donations $0.50–$2).

• Binh Tay Market: Wander this 1928 market at 57A Thap Muoi, Ward 5, for its Chinese-style clock tower and bustling trade (free entry, souvenirs $1–$20 or 25,000–500,000 VND).

• Guided Tours: Join our eco-friendly tours ($50–$70) for expert-led insights into Cholon’s architectural history, with sustainable transport.

Tip: Book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for a curated architectural experience.

Cholon in Ward 5 is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually via Terminal T3 (Vietnam Airlines domestic) and T1/T2. 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 Ward 5: $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 Cholon:

• Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (4 km away), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), then 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Bus #109: Stops near Tran Hung Dao, 5-minute walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 5; use Vinasun or Mai Linh.

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

• Walking: 20-minute walk from Binh Tay Market to Thien Hau Pagoda.

Tip: Use bicycles or Metro Line 1 for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided access.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for photographing shophouse facades and temple roofs. Tet (January–February) features vibrant decorations and lion dances at Thien Hau Pagoda but draws crowds. The rainy season (May–November) brings cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with indoor temple visits perfect during showers. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) ensure quieter exploration, while evening strolls (4:00 PM–6:00 PM) capture Cholon’s illuminated architecture.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit mornings for serene temple experiences. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable visit:

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

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

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

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

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab app, Maps.me, portable charger, camera for photos (non-flash in temples).

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

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

Tip: Carry small VND notes for donations; bring a notebook for sketching architectural details.

1. Visit Thien Hau Pagoda

Admire the 1760 temple’s triple-gate entrance, ceramic figurines, and yin-yang roofs at 710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 5.

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

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Explore Shophouse Streets

Stroll Tran Hung Dao and Chau Van Liem for century-old shophouses with Chinese-French facades.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Best mornings, 7:00 AM–11:00 AM.

• Tip: Guided in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. Discover Quan Cong Pagoda

Visit this 19th-century temple at 24 Hai Thuong Lan Ong, Ward 5, for dragon motifs and red altars.

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

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

4. Tour Binh Tay Market

Explore this 1928 market’s Chinese-style clock tower at 57A Thap Muoi, Ward 5.

• Cost: Free; souvenirs $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

5. Visit Independence Palace

Travel 4 km to Ward 1 for this 1966 modernist palace, contrasting Cholon’s heritage.

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

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

Cholon Costs

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

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

• Binh Tay Market: Free; souvenirs $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 VND).

• Independence Palace: $3.45 (80,000 VND) adults.

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.

• 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 donations; ATMs are widespread in Ward 5.

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

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Use sunscreen; visit mornings for clear photos.

  • Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); explore temple interiors.

• Bargaining: Negotiate politely for souvenirs at Binh Tay Market; start at 50% of quoted prices.

• Safety: Wear crossbody bags; watch for pickpockets in crowded streets.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles; support local vendors for authentic snacks.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Thien Hau Pagoda (710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 5) as a landmark.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly in temples; remove shoes; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

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

Our sustainable tours showcase Cholon’s Chinese architecture and Saigon’s heritage:

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Thien Hau Pagoda, Binh Tay Market, Quan Cong Pagoda. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

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

• Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Cholon street food, Binh Tay Market, Thien Hau Pagoda. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Saigon Historical Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Cholon, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta. 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

Cholon’s ancient Chinese architecture, from Thien Hau Pagoda’s ornate roofs to century-old shophouses, is a cultural masterpiece in Ho Chi Minh City’s Ward 5. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through this historic enclave sustainably, alongside Saigon’s vibrant heritage, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Cholon adventure today!
Ready to uncover Cholon’s architectural splendor? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s cultural legacy!

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

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group