Public Art and Cool Neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City
Photos By: Huy Kieu
Location Bin Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Photos By: Huy Kieu
Location Bin Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Street art and graffiti art are famous in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh) streets and are known far and wide. Visitors come to Saigon from around the globe to witness this public art, learn something about the artist or leave their mark on Saigon's streets themselves.
Some visitors decide to sign up for a four-hour tour to learn about different kinds of graffiti and street art in various Saigon districts. The tours will take them through alleys and tucked away streets that otherwise would be overlooked or undiscovered if not for a local. A tourist may even spot a local artist at work and have the opportunity to learn more about their style, technique, and the meanings behind their artistic expressions.
While strolling through different District streets to view artists' work, visitors will inevitably come across hip cafes, small art studios, shops concealed in beautiful art decorations, vendors selling street snacks, and plenty of restaurants.
District 1 is one of the most popular spots to view the best murals, public art, and graffiti in Ho Chi Minh City. There are plenty of art museums, studios, and galleries. However, close to District 1, Binh Thanh is also an excellent place to see public art and murals while also experiencing an authentic neighborhood feel. Binh Thanh is also the location of HCMC, (Ho Chi Minh City) Fine Art University and the Binh Thanh Street Food Market.
Photos By: Huy Kieu
Location Bin Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Photos By: Huy Kieu
Location Bin Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Photos By: Huy Kieu
Location Bin Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Neighborhoods to see
Ho Chi Minh is one of the fastest-growing cities in Southeast Asia. So, there are plenty of beautiful neighborhoods to see before leaving the city if you are a visitor.
Below are some districts to visit while in the city. Each District offers a unique experience.
Cholon- Chinatown
Cholon-Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Vietnam, dating back to around 1778 with great cultural and historical importance. The area was attacked twice, leaving more than 70% of the residents dead.
Those who remained decided to renovate the area and conserve it for historical purposes. Visitors get a chance to see classical and ancient Chinese architecture. There is an abundance of Chinese restaurants where you can taste traditional and modern meals.
Pham Ngu Lao Street
Pham Ngu Lao Street is also known as Backpackers Street. Most of Ho Chi Minh landmarks are in or very close to this street. A lot of backpackers land here first before deciding where to visit next.
For many years, Backpackers Street was famous amongst low-budget travelers because of having affordable bars, motels and hotels, guesthouses, and kiosks. There are currently international bars in the area with more Western culture, but you still have a chance to enjoy traditional Vietnamese delicacies.
Phu My Hung Urban Area
Phu My Hung is a business area located in district 7; residents refer to it as Saigon south. Well designed and beautiful residential buildings characterize the area. Saigon South also has a convention center where exhibitions occur, a beautiful man-made lake called Crescent Lake and plenty of fine restaurants.