Located in Chinatown (Cho Lon), Binh Tay Market is a bustling and historic market in Ho Chi Minh City. With a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, the market serves as a vibrant hub of commerce and cultural exchange. Inside its vibrant halls, you can explore a wide range of products including fresh produce, spices, textiles, handicrafts, and more, immersing yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic market.
History of the market
Binh Tay Market, located in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown (Cho Lon), has a fascinating history that traces back to the late 19th century. The market was constructed by the French colonial administration to replace the older and smaller Cho Lon Market, which was destroyed in a fire. Binh Tay Market quickly became a thriving commercial center, serving as a vital trading hub for Chinese merchants and the local Vietnamese population.
Over the years, the market has witnessed significant transformations and endured the challenges of time, including damage during the Vietnam War. However, it was rebuilt and continues to thrive today, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Binh Tay Market remains an essential part of the city’s cultural heritage, offering a diverse array of products.
Visiting the market
Binh Tay Market is located in District 6 of Ho Chi Minh City, within the vibrant Chinatown area known as Cho Lon. If you’re in District 1 (city center), there are a few ways to reach the market. The most convenient option is to take a taxi, which typically costs around 70,000 to 100,000 VND (3 to 5 USD), depending on traffic conditions and the exact location of your starting point.
The market is open daily from early morning until late afternoon, typically from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. To experience the bustling atmosphere and witness the market in full swing, it’s best to visit during the morning hours. This is when the locals often come to shop for fresh produce, seafood, and other daily necessities, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
To get to Binh Tay Market, simply inform the taxi driver of the market’s name and address, which is 57A Thap Muoi Street, District 6. The market is a well-known landmark, so most taxi drivers should be familiar with the location.
Exploring Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay Market offers a diverse range of products, catering mainly to the local population. Unlike Ben Thanh Market, which is more geared towards tourists, Binh Tay Market provides an authentic and vibrant shopping experience for the locals. Here, you can find a variety of items, from fresh produce, meat, and seafood to clothing, children’s toys, kitchenware, and household goods.
When it comes to food, Binh Tay Market truly shines. You’ll discover an array of stalls and vendors selling local Vietnamese delicacies, street food, and regional specialties. From steaming bowls of pho and banh mi sandwiches to fresh fruits, pastries, and traditional sweets, the market is a haven for food enthusiasts. In addition to Vietnamese cuisine, due to its location in Chinatown, Binh Tay Market also offers a wide selection of Chinese-related food products, including imported goods and ingredients for cooking authentic Chinese dishes.
This blend of local Vietnamese products and Chinese influences sets Binh Tay Market apart. It allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural diversity of the area while experiencing the daily hustle and bustle of a market that serves the needs of the local community.
Other sights around the market
Binh Tay Market is located approximately 8 km away from the city center. So to make the most it, you should explore other sights in this area. The market offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the vibrant district beyond the city center, where most tourists tend to stay.
While the market itself is a hub of activity, it is also surrounded by several notable attractions. You can delve deeper into Chinatown’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historical sites such as Thien Hau Pagoda and Quan Am Pagoda, which showcase stunning architectural details and offer insights into Chinese spiritual traditions.
In addition to the temples and pagodas, strolling through the streets of Chinatown reveals a tapestry of old houses and charming alleys that transport you to the ambiance of Hong Kong or mainland China. The area is dotted with local eateries serving delectable Chinese cuisine, giving you a chance to savor authentic flavors and culinary delights.
For a list of other exciting things to do in Chinatown, you can check out our guide here things to do in Chinatown.
