War Remnants Museum: Overview, Things To Do & Travel Guide

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum is one of Vietnam’s most impactful cultural landmarks. It offers a gripping and often emotional journey into the country’s wartime past, especially focusing on the Vietnam War and its aftermath. Far from being a traditional museum, this space invites travelers to engage with history through powerful photographs, preserved artifacts, and honest storytelling. From military aircraft and tanks displayed outdoors to rooms filled with rare documents and photojournalism, the museum presents a raw, unfiltered look at the human cost of war.

A visit to the War Remnants Museum is a meaningful experience. The exhibits are arranged to guide you through different stages of the conflict, highlighting the battlefield, the global political landscape, and the war's lasting impact on Vietnamese society. This guide of GTrip will help you navigate the museum’s must-see sections, share practical travel tips, and provide helpful background to enhance your understanding. Get ready to step into one of the most thought-provoking places in Ho Chi Minh City, where history is preserved not just in facts, but in emotion.

Overview of the War Remnants Museum

Located at 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum stands as one of Vietnam’s most significant historical institutions. Positioned near key landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, the museum is easily accessible and serves as a crucial stop to understand Vietnam’s war history.

Founded in 1975, shortly after the end of the Vietnam War, the museum was originally named "The Exhibition House for US and Puppet Crimes" before being renamed the War Remnants Museum in 1990. This change reflected a shift toward a more educational and globally conscious perspective. The museum’s mission is to preserve historical narratives while raising awareness of the consequences of war. Through powerful photographic exhibits, preserved military artifacts, and deeply moving personal accounts, it seeks to educate tourists about the war’s long-term impact on Vietnam and its people.

The museum has a profound effect on both Vietnamese locals and international visitors. For the Vietnamese, it serves as a stark reminder of their country’s struggles and resilience, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their history. For foreign visitors, the museum provides a thought-provoking perspective, often contrasting with narratives they may have encountered in their home countries. By presenting the war from a Vietnamese viewpoint, the museum fosters empathy, challenges preconceived notions, and encourages reflection on the realities of war.

Beyond its role as a historical archive, the War Remnants Museum is a space for dialogue on war, peace, and reconciliation. Its exhibits invite tourists to critically engage with history, emphasizing the importance of understanding past conflicts to promote global harmony. Through its educational efforts, the museum continues to influence discussions on war’s impact, ensuring that the lessons of the past remain relevant for future generations.

The War Remnants Museum stands as one of Vietnam’s most significant historical institutions

The architecture of the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is structured as a modern 3-storey building with a total floor area of approximately 4,522m². It also includes ancillary works and an outdoor exhibition space covering around 3,026m².

Indoor area

The interior spans approximately 4,522 square meters and is organized thematically across its floors to guide visitors through the complex history of the war. The museum’s indoor spaces feature thick walls that protect exhibits from sunlight damage. Stone and concrete materials reminiscent of military structures, along with small windows, create a somber atmosphere reflective of the war’s gravity. The design uses sound and light effects to enhance the emotional impact of the exhibits. These elements immerse you in the historical narrative and evoke the profound experiences of the Vietnamese people during the conflict.

The guide map of War Remnants Museum for visitors

Ground floor

The ground floor of the War Remnants Museum features exhibits and photographs focused on the theme of “The World Supports Vietnam’s Resistance Against the U.S" between 1954 and 1975. This area showcases around 100 photographs and 145 artifacts, and documents. This floor hosts exhibitions illustrating global support for Vietnam’s resistance, with photographs, artifacts, and propaganda materials reflecting international solidarity against the U.S. invasion.
Additionally, this floor features exhibits on the wartime imprisonment system. It highlights the harsh conditions and torture methods used in notorious prisons like Con Dao and Phu Quoc. These exhibits combine to create a sobering and emotional narrative that confronts tourists with the harsh realities and lasting impact of war crimes on Vietnam’s population. There is also a temporary exhibition room which is dedicated to short exhibitions during the day. It is organized in the form of a day with a fixed time on the topics of war records. But usually, this exhibition is set up for two months, depending on the program.

This floor hosts exhibitions illustrating global support for Vietnam’s resistance

First floor

The first floor of the War Remnants Museum presents a powerful and graphic exhibition on war crimes during the Vietnam War. It highlights the severe suffering endured by the Vietnamese people, including children affected by chemical warfare. This floor features around 125 photographs, 22 documents, and 243 artifacts. They provide detailed evidence of atrocities such as persecution, torture, mass killings, and the use of banned weapons by the U.S. military. Among the most harrowing displays is the extensive documentation of the consequences of Agent Orange. It is a toxic chemical defoliant sprayed over millions of hectares that caused widespread health problems. They include cancer, birth defects, and other serious illnesses affecting millions of Vietnamese and their descendants. The exhibits include graphic images of victims with severe physical deformities, emphasizing the long-term human cost of chemical warfare. The first floor also features a conference room used historically by senior leaders for strategic discussions, adding to the historical context of the museum.

Among the most harrowing displays is the extensive documentation of the consequences of Agent Orange

Second floor

Tourists typically begin their tour on the second floor of the War Remnants Museum. Here, they encounter a comprehensive overview of the Vietnam War through historical themes, war and peace imagery, and educational content about the devastating effects of Agent Orange. 

This floor features the Historical Truths Room, which displays photographs, documents, and artifacts. It details the French colonial invasion and U.S. military intervention, highlighting the scale of foreign aggression and its impact on Vietnam. The Vietnam War and Peace exhibition presents powerful documentary photos capturing brutal moments of the conflict, educating visitors about the human cost and the enduring value of peace. A dedicated Agent Orange exhibit reveals the catastrophic health and environmental consequences of the chemical defoliant, with distressing images of affected victims.

Additional galleries honor fallen war correspondents and depict the innocence of children caught in the war, including iconic photographs like that of a young girl fleeing a napalm attack. There is also the “White Pigeon” room. This room was built by the museum in collaboration with 20 Japanese volunteers. This is part of the “White Pigeon Symbol of Peace” project, undertaken by Vietnam and Japan.

The iconic image from the Vietnam War known as “The Napalm Girl”

Outdoor area

The outdoor exhibition space covers about 3,026 square meters and complements the indoor galleries by displaying large military relics and equipment. This open-air courtyard features imposing relics such as American and South Vietnamese helicopters, fighter jets, tanks, artillery pieces, missiles, bombs, and mines.

• Exhibit presentation: The outdoor displays are arranged to provide a direct and impactful visual experience. You can walk among the relics, which include American and Vietnamese military vehicles and weapons, giving a physical sense of the scale and technology involved in the conflict.
• Atmosphere and design: The outdoor area’s open layout contrasts with the enclosed, somber indoor spaces. This allows you to engage with the artifacts in a more expansive environment while maintaining the museum’s solemn and respectful tone. This design choice reinforces the museum’s mission to educate about the war’s realities and consequences.

The outdoor exhibition space covers about 3,026 square meters and complements the indoor galleries by displaying large military relics and equipment

8 things to do at the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City offers a profound and immersive experience, providing you with a powerful insight into the Vietnam War and its lasting impact. Here are some of the key exhibits and activities to explore:

1. Explore the outdoor military equipment display

Your journey at the War Remnants Museum begins even before stepping inside. Outside the main building, you’ll find a striking display of war-era military hardware. This includes tanks, artillery pieces, helicopters, and fighter planes used by both American and South Vietnamese forces. Among the most iconic are the UH-1 "Huey" helicopter and the F-5A fighter jet, which serve as visual anchors of the Vietnam War’s aerial warfare.

Walking among these massive machines offers a visceral sense of the scale and intensity of the conflict. The display is visually impactful and also rich in historical context, with information boards providing background on each piece. This area sets the tone for the museum experience, immersing you in the technological and military dimensions of the war right from the start.

Outside the main building, you’ll find a striking display of war-era military hardware

2. Walk through the war photography and documentation exhibit

Inside the museum, one of the most powerful sections is the photography exhibit that captures the stark realities of war. This collection features haunting images from world-renowned photographers such as Bunyo Ishikawa, Larry Burrows, and Horst Faas. Their work documents not just combat, but the everyday lives of civilians, the aftermath of battles, and the emotional toll on all sides.

What makes this exhibit especially moving is its human focus. Each photo is paired with captions in several languages, encouraging thoughtful reflection on the war's broader implications. It’s an emotional space where silence speaks volumes, and where the power of visual journalism is on full display.

3. Visit the Agent Orange effects exhibit

Few exhibits in the museum leave a more lasting impression than the one dedicated to the effects of Agent Orange. This section reveals the tragic legacy of chemical warfare, spotlighting the human cost of dioxin exposure. It combines heartbreaking personal stories, medical documentation, and photographic evidence that show the intergenerational impact of these chemicals.

You'll learn about children born with severe deformities, veterans living with lifelong health issues, and the environmental scars still visible today. This exhibit is both informative and emotionally challenging, forcing you to confront the long-term consequences of war decisions on innocent lives.

This section reveals the tragic legacy of chemical warfare, spotlighting the human cost of dioxin exposure

4. Enjoy the military equipment and war machines exhibit

Beyond the outdoor courtyard, the museum also houses an in-depth collection of indoor military artifacts. These include detailed models of tanks like the M48 Patton, artillery shells, bombs, firearms, and aircraft components used during the Vietnam War. You’ll get a closer look at how military technology shaped the battlefield and influenced tactics.

What makes this exhibit engaging is the educational context it provides. Descriptions go beyond the specs, they explain how and why these machines were used, often including historical anecdotes or battlefield statistics. It’s an insightful dive into the mechanics and strategy of modern warfare.

Beyond the outdoor courtyard, the museum also houses an in-depth collection of indoor military artifacts

5. Experience the tiger cage replica

One of the most chilling parts of the museum is the life-size replica of the Tiger Cages, used during the war to imprison and torture political detainees. These narrow, claustrophobic cells reflect the brutal conditions prisoners were forced to endure under the South Vietnamese regime, backed by US support at the time.

The replica is built with raw authenticity, complete with iron bars, chains, and mannequins to depict how prisoners were restrained. Visiting this section evokes strong emotional reactions, and it serves as a sobering reminder of the war’s human rights abuses and the resilience of those who suffered through them.

One of the most chilling parts of the museum is the life-size replica of the Tiger Cages

6. Visit the requiem exhibition

Located on the museum's second floor, the Requiem Exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to the war photographers who lost their lives in Indochina. Curated by legendary photojournalist Tim Page, the exhibit features compelling images taken by those who paid the ultimate price to document the war. Their work transcends politics, capturing moments of truth, sorrow, and raw humanity.

The photographs span multiple conflicts in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia and include images from both Western and Vietnamese photographers. This exhibit is not just about war, it's about courage, storytelling, and the role of journalism in shaping historical memory. It’s a space for quiet reflection and deep respect.

The Requiem Exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to the war photographers who lost their lives in Indochina

7. Explore the historical truths and war crimes exhibits

These galleries offer a broader historical perspective, tracing the roots of conflict from French colonial rule through American military involvement. Artifacts, documents, and firsthand accounts reveal a timeline of occupation, resistance, and the complex motivations behind each stage of war. The exhibits also confront controversial subjects, including alleged war crimes committed during the conflict.

You can examine maps, treaties, and declassified documents, offering a detailed view of Vietnam’s path to independence. The displays are designed to provoke critical thinking about imperialism, intervention, and the consequences of foreign policy. It’s a chance to better understand the political forces that shaped not only Vietnam’s history, but global history as well.

8. Reflect on the Vietnam war and peace exhibit

To close your museum journey, the Vietnam War and Peace exhibit offers a message of healing and resilience. This section shifts focus from war to reconciliation, showcasing Vietnam’s efforts in post-war recovery, diplomatic relations, and ongoing peace-building initiatives. It highlights stories of rebuilding, education, international cooperation, and the spirit of moving forward.

Through photos, videos, and written narratives, this exhibit balances the heavy themes found throughout the museum with a sense of hope. It reminds visitors that while war leaves deep scars, peace is always a possibility. It’s a fitting and uplifting way to end your visit, by looking not only at what was lost, but also at what has been rebuilt.

To close your museum journey, the Vietnam War and Peace exhibit offers a message of healing and resilience

Opening hours and ticket prices of the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, including weekends and public holidays. However, the ticket counter closes at 5:00 PM, so tourists should ensure they purchase tickets before this time to allow for a full visit.

Ticket prices:

• Adults: 40,000 VND (~$1.55) per person
• Children under 6 years old: Free admission
• Discounted tickets: Available for children aged 6 to under 16, students, senior citizens, veterans, and individuals from mountainous, remote, and rural areas, with a 50% discount.

It is advisable to visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays.

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM

How to get to the War Remnants Museum?

Reaching the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is easy, as it is centrally located at 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3. You can choose from a variety of transportation options depending on your budget, convenience and comfort or you can book Ho Chi Minh City tours that can often prepare transportation for you to the museum.

By taxi or ride-hailing services

The most convenient way to reach the War Remnants Museum is by taxi or ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM. Simply enter "War Remnants Museum" as your destination, and the driver will take you directly to the entrance. Expect to pay around 50,000 - 150,000 VND ($2 - $6), depending on your starting location in Ho Chi Minh City.

By public bus

For budget travelers, taking a public bus is an affordable option. Bus routes 14, 28, and 06 stop near the museum. Get off at the Vo Van Tan - Le Quy Don bus stop, which is just a short walk away. The fare is typically 5,000 - 7,000 VND ($0.20 - 0.30).

By motorbike or scooter

If you’re comfortable riding a motorbike, you can rent one from various rental shops for around 100,000 - 200,000 VND per day ($4 - 8). You can park your motorbike inside the museum area. The museum also has parking nearby, with fees ranging from 5,000 - 10,000 VND ($0.20 - 0.40). Be cautious of traffic laws and wear a helmet at all times.

You can park your motorbike inside the museum area

By bicycle

Cycling to the War Remnants Museum is possible, especially if you're staying nearby. The streets in District 3 can be busy, so ride carefully. Some hotels offer free bicycle rentals, and paid rentals cost around 50,000 VND per day ($2).

On foot

If you’re staying in District 1 or District 3, walking to the museum is a great option. From Ben Thanh Market, it's about a 15-minute walk (1 km). Walking allows you to explore the city's streets, cafes, and landmarks along the way.

Important tips for visiting the War Remnants Museum

To make the most of your visit to the War Remnants Museum and ensure an enriching experience, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Familiarize yourself with the museum layout: The museum is organized into sections that follow a chronological flow of the Vietnam War. Understanding its layout beforehand will help you navigate through the exhibits more efficiently.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds: Visiting in the morning allows you to experience the museum without the rush of other visitors, giving you time to reflect on the exhibits in a quieter atmosphere.
• Grab a map upon entrance: Pick up a map at the entrance to help you plan your route through the museum and ensure you don’t miss any significant sections, especially those of personal interest.
• Consider a guided tour: While optional, guided tours provide detailed historical context and deeper insights into the exhibits, enriching your overall understanding of the museum’s powerful content.
• Maintain respectful silence: Given the sensitive nature of the exhibits, it’s important to remain silent and respectful, especially in areas with graphic images and poignant displays.
• Follow photography rules: Photography is allowed in most parts of the museum, but be mindful of restrictions on flash photography, especially in areas with sensitive materials or artworks.
• Do not touch the exhibits: To preserve the historical integrity of the artifacts and exhibits, avoid touching anything on display, which helps protect the museum’s valuable collections for future generations.

The museum is organized into sections that follow a chronological flow of the Vietnam War

Nearby attractions to visit from the War Remnants Museum

The museum’s prime location offers a fantastic opportunity to explore other significant historical and cultural landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. Consider visiting these nearby attractions to further enrich your understanding of Vietnam’s history:

Independence Palace (1.3 km)

Located just 1.3 kilometers from the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace (also known as the Independence Palace) is an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This historical site played a pivotal role in the end of the Vietnam War, as it was the site where the fall of Saigon took place on April 30, 1975. You can explore the palace’s well-preserved rooms, including the presidential office, war room, and the stunning gardens. The interior reflects a blend of 1960s architecture and political history, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past.

The Reunification Palace (also known as the Independence Palace) is an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon (1.6 km)

A short distance from the War Remnants Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a stunning example of French colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. Built between 1877 and 1883, this cathedral boasts impressive stained glass windows, a serene atmosphere, and twin bell towers that stand tall above the city. The cathedral is not just a religious site, but also a symbol of the French influence on Vietnam.

The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a stunning example of French colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Central Post Office (1.7 km)

The Saigon Central Post Office, located near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, is another gem from the French colonial era. Designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel, this post office is known for its grand design, featuring high vaulted ceilings, intricate wooden details, and beautiful tiles. The building is still operational, offering you a chance to admire the architecture while sending postcards or letters. A visit to this historic post office provides insight into Vietnam’s colonial past and its development during the late 19th century.

FAQs when visiting the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding the history of the Vietnam War. To help make your visit more insightful and enjoyable, here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I visit the museum if I’m short on time?

If you’re pressed for time, consider focusing on the key exhibits, such as the military equipment outside, the photographic exhibitions, and the Requiem photography collection. You may also want to skip the more detailed sections and choose only a few to explore in-depth. The museum's layout makes it easy to navigate, so you can quickly move through sections of personal interest.

Can I buy souvenirs or memorabilia at the museum?

Yes, the War Remnants Museum has a small gift shop where you can purchase a variety of souvenirs and memorabilia. The shop offers items such as postcards, books on the Vietnam War, reproductions of historical photos, and local handicrafts. These items can make for meaningful mementos of your visit. The gift shop provides a chance to take home a tangible reminder of the museum's powerful history, allowing you to reflect on your experience long after you’ve left the museum. The proceeds from sales also support the museum’s ongoing educational and preservation efforts.

The War Remnants Museum has a small gift shop where you can purchase a variety of souvenirs and memorabilia

Is the War Remnants Museum suitable for children?

Visiting the War Remnants Museum with children can be educational, but it requires careful consideration. Some exhibits feature graphic content, so it’s important to assess the child’s maturity and tailor the experience accordingly. Focusing on educational aspects like stories of peace and resilience, along with interactive displays such as military vehicles, can make the visit more engaging. Providing background information beforehand helps children relate to the exhibits. With thoughtful preparation, the museum can be a valuable, age-appropriate learning experience.

Visiting the War Remnants Museum with children can be educational, but it requires careful consideration

The War Remnants Museum is more than just a historical site, it’s a powerful place of remembrance, education, and reflection. Through its compelling exhibits and emotional storytelling, the museum offers a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past and the resilience of its people. A visit here leaves a lasting impression, making it one of the most meaningful experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to explore Ho Chi Minh City beyond the usual highlights. Join a guided city tour of GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency to uncover the rich layers of history, culture, and daily life. Let places like the War Remnants Museum give you a new perspective on the country’s journey.