Binh Tay Market, situated in the historic Cho Lon area, has been a vibrant part of the city for almost a century. Since its founding in 1928, the market has grown into a bustling center of trade and tradition. Join us as we explore this beloved market, where every corner tells a story.
Historical Background Of Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay Market, also known as Cho Lon because of its location in the Cho Lon area, is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Saigon, with nearly 100 years of history. It was built in 1928 by Quach Dam, a generous Chinese merchant also called Thong Hiep, and was officially opened in 1930.
The market quickly became a busy commercial center, serving as an important trading spot for Chinese merchants and local Vietnamese people. Despite facing many challenges, including damage during the Vietnam War, the market has been rebuilt and thriving. Today, Binh Tay Market is a key part of the city’s cultural heritage, offering various products and remaining a vibrant trading hub that draws in both locals and tourists.
Location And Opening Time
- Location: No. 57A, Thap Muoi Street, Ward 2, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Opening hours: 6:00 am – 7:30 pm.
Binh Tay Market is located in District 6, between Thap Muoi, Le Tan Ke, Phan Van Khoe, and Tran Binh streets. It is open every day from about 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, but many stalls remain active until late at night. Visiting in the evening allows you to enjoy the vibrant night market atmosphere and savor special dishes.
How To Get There
By bus
If you take the bus, you can use routes 01, 07, 10, 25, 39, or 101. They all stop on Thap Muoi Street, which is very close to Binh Tay Market, so you only need a short walk to get there.
By motorbike
Traveling with a motorbike is another good option, giving you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions. There is parking available at the entrances of the market. You can use Google Maps for directions: from Independence Palace, go to Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, turn right onto Vo Van Kiet Street, then turn right onto Ngo Nhan Tinh Street, and finally turn left onto Phan Van Khoe Street. You will see the market on your right.
By car
For the most convenience, you can take a taxi from anywhere in the city and just tell the driver you want to go to Binh Tay Market.
Best Time To Visit
Binh Tay Market is open daily from early morning until late at night, so you can visit anytime. However, to experience the market at its busiest, it is best to go in the morning. This is when locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and other necessities. It is also a great opportunity to taste a typical local breakfast.
What To Expect in Binh Tay Market Visit
Outdoor wet market
The outdoor market street, found beside and behind Binh Tay Market, is a haven for those who love fresh markets. Along Phan Van Khoe Street, you will find an assortment of fresh ingredients commonly used in Vietnamese and Chinese cooking.
From various meats and seafood to plenty of fruits and vegetables, vendors are spread out along the street, some using tables while others lay out their goods on tarps on the ground.
In addition to the fresh produce, stalls are offering pre-cooked meals, mostly for takeout, and some selling ready-made local dishes. Eating here not only lets you see the ingredients used but also gives you a taste of the local culinary scene.
Indoor section
The inside section of Binh Tay Market spans an impressive 17,000 square meters, providing a vast array of product groups and types. Catering to both wholesale and retail shoppers, the market offers affordable prices for people with average incomes. The indoor market has a total of 2,300 stalls, selling over 30 different types of products, and is divided into 5 distinct areas.
- Ground floor area: This is where various ceramic dishes, porcelain, incense burners, galvanized nails, conical hats, dried spices, paintings, etc. are sold. In addition, you can also find various bags, shoes, and jewelry with eye-catching designs in this area.
- Upper floor area: Here, there are stalls selling groceries, cakes and candies, ready-made clothes, etc.
- Tran Binh area: If you want to buy various spices, tea, coffee, or fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables,…
- Le Tan Ke area: The goods in this area are mainly dry oils and fats, dried seafood, betel nuts, vegetables, and spices,…
Travelers can visit and take a stroll around the market to see the merchants and the goods or find anything to buy here from souvenirs to daily necessities.
Food section
At the back of Binh Tay Market, there is a lively food court with many vendors selling delicious food. While some focus on takeout or serving other market sellers, most have a few tables or counters where you can sit and eat.
This food section offers a diverse range of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, attracting both locals and tourists. Some popular dishes include pancakes, noodles with grilled pork, grilled spring rolls, vermicelli with crabs, and tasty grilled meat skewers. You will also find vendors selling fresh meats and Chinese sausages nearby.
Especially, some of the food stalls in Binh Tay Market have a very long-standing tradition dating back over 30 years. This is why travelers taste unique flavors that are hard to find anywhere else. These are some popular over-three-decades local dish recommendations:
- Pha Lau: Pha Lau is made from pork meat and offal that is braised in a spiced stock of five-spice powder. What makes it special is its flavorful stew water, which has a mild, slightly sweet, and wonderfully fragrant taste unlike any other. There is no specific address for Pha Lau so you will need to ask around near the market gate to find it.
- Bun Rieu: Bun Rieu is a Vietnamese noodle soup made with rice noodles and a tomato and crab broth base. Served by a cook with a 30-year history, this stall offers this dish with a secret recipe. Most people order extra noodles, and the broth is full of delicious ingredients.
Attractions Nearby
Binh Tay Market is located at the heart of the Chinatown area known as Cho Lon. While the market itself has many things to explore, it is also surrounded by several notable attractions. You can delve deeper into Chinatown’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historical sites
- Lady Thien Hau Pagoda: Thien Hau Pagoda is a fascinating 200-year-old pagoda with great historical and cultural importance. As one of the oldest and most respected Chinese temples in Vietnam, it draws visitors with its beautiful architecture and rich spiritual atmosphere.
- Nhi Phu Temple: Nhi Phu Temple, also known as Ong Bon Temple, is a beautiful Chinese-style temple that is culturally important and features ornate architecture and intricate decorations. It serves as a spiritual place for worshippers and a cultural landmark for visitors.
- Quan Am Pagoda: This pagoda was originally called the On Lang Assembly Hall and served as a meeting place for Chinese immigrants to meet their spiritual and cultural needs. Over time, it became an important place of worship, dedicated to the Quan Am deity.
- Hao Si Phuong Alley: With a history of over 100 years, this narrow alley is rich in the traditions and culture of its residents. It was originally established by the Chinese community with the help of the French government.
- Lantern Street: Situated in District 5’s Chinatown, the street is lined with many shops and stalls selling a wide variety of lanterns and festive items. It’s a chance for visitors to experience Vietnam’s cultural heritage and see the colorful lantern displays.
- Cha Tam Church: Cha Tam Church, also recognized as St. Francis Xavier Parish Church, serves as a vital place of worship for the local Chinese Catholic community.
Tips When Visiting Binh Tay Market
- Bargaining is important to get good prices because prices can differ between stalls.
- If you’re new to the market, consider going with someone experienced to help you find good quality items.
- Compare prices from different stalls to find the best deals.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in the busy market.
Binh Tay Market is a vibrant reflection of Ho Chi Minh City’s diverse culture and lively community. The market remains a top destination for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience. For those looking to explore Vietnam, visit our website to plan your trip and discover the wonders of this beautiful country.
