Cholon, Saigon's Chinatown district, dominates the west bank of the city, boasting the attractions of Quan Am Pagoda, Thien Hau Temple, Binh Tay Market and numerous teahouses. Visit this long-established Chinese community (the largest of its kind in Vietnam) and soak up the fascinating culture, architecture and sights.
Quan Am Pagoda - a Chinese-style Buddhist temple - features beautiful courtyards, gardens, a pond and a Jade Emperor. At Thien Hau Temple, dedicated to the goddess of the sea, check the stunning carved porcelain ceiling designs.
Cholon Mosque and Cha Tam - the catholic cathedral - as well as the thriving Binh Tay market also add to the rich texture of this historic community.
Cholon, covering districts 5 & 6, can be reached by boat from the jetty on Saigon river down Ben Nghe channel, or by taxi or bike. Head for Binh Tay Market as a central starting point. From here hire a cyclo by the hour to leisurely cruise Nguyen Trai Road and its nearby streets to Quan Am pagoda and Thien Hau temple as you take in the area's unique atmosphere.
