Dec - 03 - 2025
Former Binh Tan district in Ho Chi Minh City is your gateway to the real, unfiltered soul of Saigon. Binh Tan offers a different kind of travel treasure, an authentic, off-the-beaten-path HCMC experience that rewards the curious traveler. As your trusted guides at GTrip, we’ve explored its winding alleys and vibrant markets to bring you the ultimate guide. This is your chance to see a side of the city that many visitors miss.
Overview of former Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Western part of Ho Chi Minh City, bordered by former Districts 12 and Hoc Mon to the north, former Districts 8 and Binh Chanh to the south, and former Districts 6, 8, and Tan Phu to the east.
Former Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City is a logistical and industrial powerhouse, but don't let that fool you. Beyond the factories and major thoroughfares lies a deeply residential area brimming with local character. It's a district of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern development. Exploring Binh Tan means swapping tourist crowds for community markets and global chains for family-run pho stalls. This offers a truly immersive glimpse into the daily life that powers this megalopolis.
Binh Tan District offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path of Saigon, where community markets, family-run eateries, and local traditions define the district
How to get to former Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City
Getting to Binh Tan from the city center, such as District 1, is straightforward and affordable, though it requires factoring in Saigon's infamous traffic. The journey typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Ride-hailing apps: The most convenient way to travel is by using apps like Grab or XanhSM. You can book either a car for comfort and air-conditioning or a motorbike for a faster, more exhilarating, and budget-friendly local experience. Simply input your destination, such as Aeon Mall Binh Tan, to get a clear route.
- Public bus: For the most economical option, the public bus system is fantastic. It's a great way to see the city like a local. Use an app like BusMap to find the correct route and bus numbers, such as bus number 14 or 32, which connect the central areas to Binh Tan. Fares are incredibly cheap.
- Traditional taxi: Reputable taxi companies, such as Vinasun or Mai Linh, are also readily available. You can hail one on the street or book through their apps. Ensure the meter is running to guarantee a fair price.
Top 10 things to do in former Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City
Ready to dive into what to do in Binh Tan? This district is packed with a surprising number of cultural, culinary, and commercial gems. Here are the top ten experiences you shouldn't miss.
1. Visit St. Paul Church (Phaolo Parish)
Phaolo Parish, more commonly known as St. Paul Church, is a serene and beautiful beacon of faith in the district. Its classic European-inspired architecture, with a prominent bell tower and arched windows, stands in graceful contrast to the surrounding urban landscape. The church is a vital center for the local Catholic community, hosting regular masses and community events. The well-maintained grounds offer a pocket of tranquility. As a visitor, you can feel the deep sense of peace that permeates the space. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when the light is soft, or in the evening when the church is beautifully illuminated, creating a peaceful and photogenic scene.
2. Explore Hue Nghiem Pagoda
Considered one of the most stunning architectural religious sites in the area, Hue Nghiem Pagoda is an absolute must-visit. The complex is known for its magnificent and intricate design, featuring traditional curved roofs, detailed carvings of mythical creatures, and peaceful lotus ponds. Its most striking feature is a towering, multi-tiered pagoda that you can see from a distance. The main prayer hall houses impressive, large-scale statues of Buddha and various Bodhisattvas, which are central to its spiritual significance for local Buddhists. Remember to practice proper etiquette: dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees, speak softly, and remove your shoes before entering the main prayer areas. It’s a wonderful place for quiet contemplation.
Hue Nghiem Pagoda is a must-visit pagoda in Binh Tan District
3. Experience culture at Long Thanh Pagoda
While Binh Tan has several pagodas, each offers a unique atmosphere. Long Thanh Pagoda is special for its strong community focus and deeply tranquil environment. It feels less like a grand monument and more like a spiritual home for the neighborhood. The architecture is more understated than Hue Nghiem, but it is filled with charm, from the smoking incense pots to the small, manicured gardens and smiling statues. Visiting here provides a chance to witness local prayer rituals firsthand. You'll often see residents stopping by to light incense and make offerings. This provides an intimate and humbling insight into the daily spiritual life of the Vietnamese people, far from any tourist-focused performance.
4. Visit Tu Hanh Buddhist Temple
Tu Hanh Buddhist Temple offers another quiet escape and a dose of spiritual culture. This temple is cherished by locals for its peaceful ambiance and its dedication to community service. The temple's layout includes several halls and courtyards, decorated with detailed woodwork, ceramic mosaics, and statues depicting Buddhist tales and deities. It’s a feast for the eyes for anyone interested in religious art and symbolism. Beyond its beauty, Tu Hanh is known for its role in community activities, including charity work. The biggest takeaway for any visitor is the profound sense of calm it offers. In a city that never stops moving, finding a place like this is a true gift.
Tu Hanh Buddhist Temple is famous for its peaceful ambiance and the important role in community activities
5. Discover Binh Tri Dong Communal House
To truly understand Vietnamese culture, you must visit a communal house. The Binh Tri Dong Communal House (Dinh Binh Tri Dong) is a perfect example. A dinh is a traditional structure that historically served as the heart of a village, functioning as both an administrative office and a place of worship for the village's guardian spirit. This site holds immense historical and cultural significance. Its architecture is distinctly Vietnamese, with a large, sweeping tiled roof and extensive use of dark, lacquered wood, often adorned with carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and other symbolic motifs. Visiting here is like stepping back in time. It's a fantastic place to appreciate the region's traditional southern Vietnamese roots and understand the social fabric that predates modern city life.
6. Relax at Gia Phu Park
Amidst the concrete and commerce, Gia Phu Park is a welcome patch of green. This public park is a microcosm of local life and the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing. It's a hub of community activity. Arrive in the early morning to see seniors practicing t'ai chi, or in the late afternoon to watch groups engage in lively games of badminton and foot shuttlecock. For a traveler, the park is an ideal spot for people-watching. Grab a drink from a nearby vendor, find a bench, and simply absorb the rhythms of daily life in Binh Tan. It’s a simple, free, and incredibly insightful experience.
Gia Phu Park is a perfect choice for relaxing and enjoying the green atmosphere
7. Visit ABC Bakery Factory
ABC Bakery is a household name in Vietnam, and Binh Tan is home to one of its main locations. While you might not get a full factory tour, the on-site ABC Bakery shop is a treat for the senses. The aroma of fresh baking hits you the moment you walk in. Here, you can enjoy a huge variety of breads, pastries, and cakes, often literally fresh from the ovens. It’s a fascinating insight into a successful local business that has become a national brand. You absolutely must try their pate chaud (a savory puff pastry) or their fluffy pandan bread.
8. Shop at Aeon Mall Binh Tan
Aeon Mall Binh Tan is a massive, ultra-modern shopping complex that serves as the commercial and social heart of the area. It’s a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Inside, you'll find a vast selection of international and local brands, a sprawling food court with hundreds of options, a state-of-the-art cinema, and a huge Aeon supermarket on the ground floor. More than just a mall, it’s a popular hangout for local families and youths. It’s also an excellent, air-conditioned escape on a sweltering HCMC day. You can spend hours here exploring, eating, and observing modern Saigonese culture.
Aeon Mall Binh Tan is a massive, modern shopping and entertainment hub packed with global and local brands, a huge food court, a cinema, and a bustling supermarket
9. Experience the local vibe at An Lac Market
For a truly unfiltered, authentic Vietnamese shopping experience, you have to visit An Lac Market. This is a classic local wet market, and it’s a world away from the sanitized aisles of the mall supermarket. Prepare your senses for a vibrant overload. You'll see pyramids of colorful tropical fruits, stalls overflowing with fresh vegetables, live seafood swimming in tubs, and the constant, energetic buzz of vendors and shoppers bargaining. The air is thick with the smells of fresh herbs, grilled meats, and simmering noodle soups. This is not for the faint of heart, but it's the absolute best place to witness the local food supply chain in action. Be adventurous and try some of the street food snacks being sold by vendors around the market's edge.
10. Savor local food in former Binh Tan District
Binh Tan's food scene is one of its biggest draws. It’s where you’ll find some of the best and most affordable local food in Ho Chi Minh City, served without the tourist-trap prices. Here are a few standout spots to get you started:
- Hai Hoang Restaurant (239 Vanh Dai Trong St.): Step into this bustling spot to savor authentic Chinese dishes rich in flavor and tradition. It's a great choice for family-style dining. Be sure to try the dim sum or the flavorful roasted duck.
- Tanchou Binh Tan (136 Road 7): A local favorite, Tanchou lets you enjoy comforting bowls of ramen and fresh sushi in a cozy Japanese-style setting. It’s the perfect spot for a casual and delicious meal that won't break the bank.
- Quan An Long Ky (124 Road 1): For a taste of true home cooking, visit this restaurant. They specialize in Vietnamese home-style dishes that capture the warmth of family meals. Don't leave without ordering the classic braised fish in a clay pot (ca kho to).
- Com Ga Kim Hien (164 Road 7): Chicken rice is a Vietnamese staple, and this place does it brilliantly. Here you can taste flavorful, tender chicken served over seasoned rice with zesty, local-style dipping sauces. It's a must-try for a quick, cheap, and deeply satisfying lunch.
Binh Tan District has a lot of good food spots
Practical tips for visiting former Binh Tan District
A little preparation goes a long way in making your trip to Binh Tan smooth and enjoyable. Keep these tips in mind.
- Best time to visit: The early morning (around 7-9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) is ideal. You’ll avoid the intense midday heat and witness the district at its most active, with markets bustling and parks full of people.
- What to wear: Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing like cotton or linen is your best friend. When visiting religious sites like pagodas and churches, show respect by bringing a scarf or light jacket to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Is Binh Tan district safe?: Yes, Binh Tan is generally a safe district for travelers. It is a residential and working-class area, so you should practice the same common-sense precautions you would in any large city. Keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid flashing expensive items. The people are generally friendly and welcoming.
- Cash is king: While Aeon Mall and larger restaurants accept credit cards, the vast majority of local eateries, markets, and small shops will require cash. Be sure to carry a sufficient amount of Vietnamese Dong (VND).
- Basic phrases: Locals will greatly appreciate any effort to speak their language. Learning a few simple phrases like "Xin chao" (Hello), "Cam on" (Thank you), and "Bao nhieu tien?" (How much is it?) can make interactions much warmer.
- Navigation: Addresses can be confusing. Using a ride-hailing app like Grab is the easiest way to navigate, as you can input the exact address and avoid any confusion with drivers.
Remember those tips to have a complete experience exploring Binh Tan District
Exploring beyond the tourist center is what transforms a good trip into a great one. Former Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City offers exactly that, a chance to connect with the city on a deeper, more authentic level. It’s a place where you can find spiritual solace in the quiet courtyards of ancient pagodas, feel the raw energy of a bustling local market, and taste flavors that have been perfected over generations in family-owned kitchens. While it may lack the colonial landmarks of former District 1, it more than makes up for it with its rich cultural tapestry and genuine Saigonese spirit. We hope this GTrip guide has inspired you to add this incredible, off-the-beaten-path HCMC gem to your itinerary.
