Cholon - Chinatown

Overview

Cholon is the largest Chinatown in Vietnam and one of the most vibrant in Southeast Asia. District 5 is a sensory overload of temples, medicine shops, textile markets, and Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine.

Highlights

• Temple Circuit: Over a dozen Chinese temples including Thien Hau and Quan Am Pagoda.
• Fabric Market: Dai Quang Minh forms one of Asia's largest wholesale fabric districts.
• Street Food: Legendary hu tieu, banh bao, and dim sum served from dawn.

History

Established in the 1780s by ethnic Chinese fleeing the Tay Son rebellion. The wealthiest district in Saigon until 1975.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Market: Visit before 9 AM for peak wholesale activity.
• Motorcycle Tour: Consider a guided motorcycle tour to cover more ground.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.