Tales of Cho Lon Cultural Walking Private Tour
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Tales of Cho Lon is a 4-hour walking tour to explore the history, food, and culture of Cho Lon area, also referred to as Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown. Once a separate city with its own identity, modern Cho Lon is rich in stories of different Chinese communities, the influx of migrants, the diversity of culture and religious practices, and a variety of foods & drinks.
The tour will take you to assembly halls, the social-spiritual structures of different Chinese community groups, taste the street snacks, enjoy the coffee from one of the oldest coffee stands that still in business in the city. The walks is through main trading streets as well as one of the largest wholesale marketplaces in Vietnam.
Available options
Tales of Cho Lon Cultural Walking Private Tour
What's included
Coffee or cold drinks at the coffee roastery
Street food tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
Our tour starts at the front courtyard of Nghia An Assembly Hall. Also known by various names such as Quan De Temple and Ong Pagoda, Nghia An Assembly Hall holds great significance within the Teochew community. It serves not only as a vital place of worship for Teochew people in Saigon but also as a precious architectural and artistic masterpiece from the late 19th to the early 20th century. This temple venerates Quan Vu, a renowned figure from the Three Kingdoms period, who symbolizes talent and moral excellence for the Chinese, hence its alternate names Quan De Temple and Ong Pagoda.
2
Tuệ Thành Assembly Hall, commonly referred to as Thien Hau Temple or Ba Chua Cholon Pagoda, is a religious institution dedicated to the worship of Thien Hau, the Holy Mother. It is one of the oldest places of worship established by the Cantonese Chinese community.
3
On Lang Pagoda, also known as Ôn Lăng Assembly Hall, Quan Âm Temple, or Ông Lào Temple, is a Vietnamese-Chinese temple belong to the Hokkien Chinese community. It was dedicated to the worship of Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu and various folk deities of the Chinese people. Later, the hall also enshrined Quan Âm Bodhisattva, hence the name Quan Âm Temple.
4
Enjoy the local market with street food, one of the oldest coffee stall in the city and a traditional Cantonese snack.
5
One of the oldest churches in the Chinatown area, St Francis Xavier Church is an excellent masterpiece of Franco-Chinese architecture with Vietnamese influence.
6
Stop 6
Also known as Cho Lon (the Grand Market), Binh Tay Market is famous for its unusual structure for an Asian market, with a big inner courtyard and Sino-French architecture. The market, which has been built in 1928, is one of Vietnam's most important wholesales markets.
Our tour also concludes here.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
As this is a walking tour, there is walking time among the location as well as other points of interest along the street, which will add up around 1 hour to the total duration of the tour.
Infants are allowed on tour free of charge. However, please be advised that this is a walking tour with NO facilities for infants and involve walking on the streets under various type of weather and situation that might not be suitable for infants, including heat, rain and noise.
Meeting point
Our Meeting Point will be Nghia An Hoi Quan, 678 Nguyen Trai, District 5, inside the courtyard.
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.
Top Attractions
War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Cu Chi Tunnels
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Historical
Half-day tour
Moderate (tour prices vary)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.
Observation Deck
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Com Tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
Boat tours in the Mekong Delta
Beach relaxation in Vung Tau
Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum
Exploring local markets and temples
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Bargain for better prices at markets
Getting there
By air
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Saigon Railway Station
By bus
Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District 1
District 3
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 7
Phu Nhuan District
Day trips
Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
- Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
