Welcome to Cholon, ZAZZ Urban’s Newest Neighborhood
Even though ZAZZ Urban Ho Chi Minh Hotel officially opens in Q1 2019, we feel like it is the perfect time to take a wander around our ‘newest hood’.
Regarded as Vietnam’s largest Chinatown, Cholon is one of the most popular and indispensable attractions alluring local Vietnamese and foreign tourists alike.
History buffs, culture enthusiasts and the ZAZZ fans, meet Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown located in District 5. It is home to some of the largest markets, charming Chinese temples and some of the best local restaurants and cafés you can find in the country.
If you are seeking for authentic cultural experiences, a visit to this stunning part of Vietnam should be on your agenda.
Cholon Attractions
Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay Market is a massive wholesale market that gives a great insight into the local culture and lifestyle. It features more than 500 stalls offering a variety of local produce such as fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, meat and seafood. Retail goods such as clothes, shoes, bags and fashion accessories are also on offer. There to find are food stalls as well, where you can sample unique Vietnamese-Chinese delicacies. It is the largest distribution hub for all things food and goods in the area.
Thien Hau Temple
Dating back to the mid 1700’s, Thien Hau Temple was constructed by a group of Chinese immigrants from Guangzhou. It was built in honor of Lady Thien Thau, the Chinese Sea Goddess. Worshippers believe her to bless fishermen, seafarers and those traveling on the sea. Thien Hau Temple is still one of the most visited Chinese temples in all of Vietnam.
Ni Phu Temple
Ni Phu Temple is home to the impressive statue of Ong Bon, the God of wealth and guardian of happiness and virtue. It features ornate carvings and a golden altar and is one of the most religious sites in the Chinatown District.
Cha Tam Church
Built in the early 19th century, this pastel yellow-painted Roman Catholic Parish Church is one of the most beautiful churches in the country. Also known as the Church of St. Francisco Javier, Cha Tam Church features a design which combines Gothique, resembling European churches and the Chinese style which can be noticed through its decorations.
Things to do
Cholon Chinatown Tour
Saigon Free Walking Tours is a non-profit organization run by students of Hoa Sen University. The students serve as your tour guide who will take you around the bustling Chinatown. The Cholon Chinatown Tour is donation-based ($1) excluding motorbike transportation costs and other entrance fees involved. The itinerary includes a visit to Binh Tay Market, Cha Tam Church and Thein Hau Temple.
Learn more: Saigon Free Walking Tours
Saigon City Tour
Back of the Bike Tours is a professional tour company that provides guests a one-of-a-kind, authentic Saigon experience. With their team of tour and expert guides, guests are guaranteed to take home new cultural knowledge and unforgettable experience. Their Saigon City Tour includes a chance to explore Districts 1,3,4,5,8 and 10, unveiling local areas and hidden sights which can only be seen on the back of their motorbikes. Highlights of the city tour include Saigon Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and a visit to Thien Hau Temple in Chinatown of Cholon District. There are also opportunities on sampling local Vietnamese fares and delicacies.
Learn more: Back of the Bike Saigon Tours
Cholon Food Tour
Ho Chi Minh’s historic Chinatown is home to a plethora of authentic local restaurants and street food carts serving up Vietnamese and Chinese favorites and delicacies.
Some of the specialties to try include the world’s famous ‘Pho’ noodles (rice noodles) and a variety of steamed and pan-fried Chinese dumplings.
Cholon provides every visitor not only an array of dining experiences to enjoy but also a chance to explore Saigon’s most authentic neighborhood.
Staying in Cholon’s Chinatown district means you have fascinating history right at your doorsteps and authentic local experiences for you to discover.
Adding to this is the incredible food scene where authentic, local restaurants can be spotted each and every part of the town.
Stay with ZAZZ Urban for your Stay in Ho Chi Minh
No other District 5 hotels in Ho Chi Minh mix business with pleasure like we do
Conveniently located in Ho Chi Minh’s Chinatown, our business & leisure hotel in District 5 will welcome you with open arms after your day of work or culture or both!
Whether you are traveling to Ho Chi Minh for business or just want to explore Saigon in utmost comfort and style, you can rest assured that ZAZZ Urban Ho Chi Minh Hotel can fulfill all that and more.