by Cassidy Armbruster
Discovering Bình Tây Market
In fact, most paid no attention to me unless I paid attention to what they were selling. You can find everything at this market, from fresh fruit to dry fruit, flip flops to sneakers, rice in a dish to dry rice in a bag. The products are also sold wholesale, so the products are inexpensive- almost like a Vietnamese Costco.
Similarly, unlike the Ben Thanh market, the Bình Tây market isn’t swarming with hot and frustrated tourists. The Bình Tây market is at the centre of Ho Chi Minh’s district six, which happens to be the largest Chinatown in the world! As you may assume, the market is made up predominantly by Vietnamese-Chinese, and the common language is Cantonese. The Bình Tây market or Cho Lon, as the Vietnamese locals refer to it, was replaced by the “old market” after a fire that completely destroyed the market.
Like most markets, the Bình Tây market is split into sections, making it easier to shop. For example, you won’t find hats being sold in the nuts section of the market. My favourite section that Thanh and I walked through was the section where you purchase offerings to give to the dead. I saw offerings that one would expect to be sold, such as candles, incense, fake flowers, and small statues of chickens. Then I came across large packages of offerings I had never seen before, filled with fake gold watches, bracelets, earrings, and even paper IPhones. These caught me a little of guard, and really intrigued me. Thanh explained that afterlife in Chinese tradition reflects the real world, thus the dead would appreciate an iPhone, gold watch, or bracelet just as much as the living would.
A Culinary Adventure in Bình Tây Market
One of the biggest draws of Bình Tây Market is its incredible variety of Vietnamese food. As you weave through the different sections, the aromas of grilled meats, fresh herbs, and spices fill the air. From street food stalls to dried goods, there’s something for every foodie to discover.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bánh bao (steamed buns filled with pork or sweet fillings)
Hủ tiếu (a flavorful noodle soup often served with seafood)
Bánh tráng trộn (rice paper salad, a popular street snack)
Cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk)
If you want to explore Saigon’s culinary scene further, consider joining the Saigon Foodie Experience tour, where you can experience hidden food gems and traditional flavors while riding a vintage Vespa.
The Unique Offerings of Bình Tây Market
Unlike many other markets in Vietnam, Bình Tây has dedicated sections for different product types, making it easier to navigate. Some of the more intriguing finds include:
Traditional Herbal Medicine: Cholon is famous for its herbal stores, and the market has several stalls selling dried herbs and medicinal teas.
Ceremonial Offerings: A section dedicated to religious offerings, including incense, paper money, and even paper replicas of luxury goods like iPhones and designer handbags, meant for ancestral worship.
Handicrafts and Textiles: Beautiful silk fabrics, handmade jewelry, and intricate embroidery make for great souvenirs.
For travelers looking for an immersive cultural experience, the Insider’s Saigon Tour offers a deeper look into the city's bustling markets, hidden alleyways, and local traditions.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bình Tây Market
Go early: The market opens around 6 AM, and the best time to visit is in the morning when the vendors are setting up and the atmosphere is lively.
Bargain respectfully: Unlike more touristy markets, prices here are fair, but negotiating is still part of the culture.
Bring cash: While some vendors accept digital payments, cash is king here.
Dress comfortably: The market can get warm, so light clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Final Thoughts
Bình Tây Market is a must-visit for those wanting to experience Saigon beyond its famous landmarks. With its deep-rooted history, diverse food offerings, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a place where tradition meets commerce in the most authentic way. Whether you’re on a hunt for souvenirs, exploring Vietnamese food, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of the market, Bình Tây is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.