Binh Tay Market (Cholon Chinatown Market) Guide
Binh Tay Market: A Sensory Feast in Saigon's Chinatown Guide
Welcome to Binh Tay Market, also known as Cholon Chinatown Market, a sprawling and vibrant wholesale market located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's bustling Chinatown. This is not your typical tourist market; it's a working market where locals come to buy and sell everything from fresh produce and seafood to textiles, household goods, and everything in between. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of this authentic Vietnamese marketplace. Binh Tay Market was built in the 1880s by a Chinese businessman named Quach Dam, and it quickly became the central trading hub for the Chinese community in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City). The market's architecture reflects its Chinese heritage, with its ornate roof and intricate details. Over the years, Binh Tay Market has played a vital role in the city's economy and has become a symbol of the enduring Chinese influence in Vietnam. Exploring Binh Tay Market is an adventure in itself. Wander through the narrow aisles, dodging carts and vendors as you take in the chaotic energy of the market. Sample local street food like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) and che (sweet dessert soup). Browse the endless array of goods on offer, from colorful fabrics and traditional clothing to dried seafood and exotic spices. Be prepared to haggle for the best prices, and don't be afraid to try your hand at speaking a few words of Vietnamese. The market is also a great place to sample authentic Vietnamese-Chinese cuisine. Look for vendors selling dim sum, noodles, and other Chinese-inspired dishes.
Transportation
Several buses serve Binh Tay Market. Consider these options: * **Bus 01:** Ben Thanh Market - Binh Tay Market * **Bus 08:** District 8 - Thu Duc University Village * **Bus 56:** Cho Lon Bus Station - Thu Duc University Village From Ben Thanh Market, Bus 01 is a direct and convenient option. From other locations, check local bus routes to find the best connection to either Cho Lon Bus Station or directly to Binh Tay Market.