Explore Cho Lon – Saigon’s Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple & Chinese Cuisine

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Explore Cho Lon – Saigon’s Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple & Chinese Cuisine

Date: 2025.07.24

Cho Lon is the largest Chinatown in Vietnam, famous for its ancient architecture, vibrant religious sites, and rich culinary heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City and want to dive into Chinese-Vietnamese culture, this historic area is a must-visit.

📍 Location: Cho Lon Ward and Binh Tay Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
🕰️ History: Over 300 years of development

*_{Chợ Lớn was once a bustling city separate from Saigon. (Source: mia.vn)}*

1. What is Cho Lon?

In the past, Cho Lon was once a separate city. Following urbanization between 1930 and 1950, it was merged into Saigon. Today, the area encompasses the entire Cho Lon Ward and part of Binh Tay Ward, and is primarily home to Vietnamese people of Chinese descent, originating from Chaozhou, Fujian, Hainan, and other regions.

Despite being close to the city center, Cho Lon retains its old-world charm and traditional lifestyle. It features timeworn temples, Chinese guildhalls, heritage markets, and vintage apartment blocks that reflect a unique cultural identity.

*_{Nowadays, “Saigon Chợ Lớn” refers to Cho Lon Ward (Source: mia.vn)}*

2. Must-Visit Attractions in Cho Lon, Saigon

2.1. Thien Hau Temple

📍Address: 710 Nguyen Trai, Cho Lon Ward
⏰ Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM

One of the most iconic religious sites in Cho Lon, Thien Hau Temple is over 250 years old. Dedicated to the Goddess Mazu (Thien Hau Thanh Mau), the pagoda features classical Chinese architecture, ceramic figurines, and hundreds of antique artifacts.

Locals come here to pray, make offerings, and write wishes on red papers displayed on temple walls — a serene and spiritual experience not to be missed.

*_{Thiên Hậu Temple is a religious structure rich in Chinese cultural heritage in Cho Lon, Cho Lon Ward . (Source: mia.vn)}*

2.2. On Lang Assembly Hall

📍 Address: 12 Lao Tu Street, Cho Lon Ward
⏰ Opening hours: 6:15 AM – 5:00 PM

Located just 600m from Thien Hau Pagoda, On Lang Assembly Hall is a colorful temple dedicated to Mazu, Guanyin, and other deities. Built in 1740, it also served as the community center for immigrants from Quanzhou, China.

The hall’s intricate roof tiles, red-yellow façade, and Chinese rituals attract both locals and visitors, especially during the Lunar New Year and prayer festivals.

*_{Ôn Lăng Assembly Hall has been a part of the Cho Lon community for nearly 300 years. (Source: mia.vn)}*

2.3. Hao Sy Phuong Alley

📍 Address: 206/17 Tran Hung Dao, Cho Lon Ward
⏰ Open: All day

Known as a “Hong Kong-style” alley, Hao Sy Phuong is a hidden gem for photography lovers. With its double-story row houses, shared staircases, and traditional decorations, it reflects the everyday life of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community.

Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of traditional “sock filter” coffee at Ba Lu café nearby, in business for over 60 years.

*_{The two-story townhouse alley at Hào Sỹ Phường is a popular “Instagrammable” spot in Cho Lon, Cho Lon Ward. (Source: mia.vn)}*

2.4. Phung Hung Market

📍 Address: 214 Phung Hung, Cho Lon Ward
⏰ Opening hours: 4:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Once known as the “rich people’s market,” Phung Hung Market offers a feast for the senses with Chinese dishes like vegetarian noodles, century-old banh mi stalls, and flavorful coffee.

The market’s nostalgic vibe, vintage architecture, and bustling food stalls make it a favorite for photographers and foodies alike.

*_{Phùng Hưng Market (also known as the “rich people’s market”) gathers many Vietnamese-Chinese stalls. (Source: mia.vn)}*

*_{At Phùng Hưng Market, you can enjoy a variety of traditional Chinese-style dishes and drinks, including “sock-brewed coffee.” (Source: mia.vn)}*

*_{The nostalgic beauty of Phùng Hưng Market makes it a unique and impressive check-in destination. (Source: mia.vn)}*

3. Conclusion: Why You Should Visit Cho Lon

Cho Lon is not just a cultural attraction — it’s the perfect place for travelers to:

・Explore over 300 years of Chinese-Vietnamese heritage in Ho Chi Minh City
・Experience a unique spiritual atmosphere rich in Eastern traditions
・Enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine
・Capture artistic moments in nostalgic old streets

If you’re planning a trip to Saigon, be sure to include Cho Lon in your itinerary. A short journey packed with culture, spirituality, and food awaits your discovery!