1. Where is District 11? How to get there?
Nestled to the west of the center of Ho Chi Minh City, District 11 shares its borders with District 3, District 5, District 6, District 10, and Tan Binh District. Once a quiet suburban area, this district has grown into an urban hub that links the city with the Mekong Delta region.
District 11, Ho Chi Minh City is full of life, offering a dynamic mix of commerce, tourism, and cuisine. It has a unique character where traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. With many attractions and immersive community-based activities, the district is rapidly emerging as a vibrant destination for tourists.
To reach District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from District 1, follow this route: Le Loi Street - Le Lai Street - Cong Quynh Street - Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street - Ly Thai To Street - 3 Thang 2 Street - Lanh Binh Thang Street - Duong Dinh Nghe Street.
Getting around District 11, HCMC is easy thanks to various transportation options. Motorbikes offer a convenient way to travel short distances, while public buses provide an affordable alternative, with routes numbered 14, 23, 145, 148, and 09 passing through the district. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, cycling presents a scenic way to explore around at a relaxed pace.
For an eco-friendly ride, you can hail a taxi from Xanh SM. As Vietnam’s first electric taxi service, Xanh SM provides modern, well-maintained vehicles at competitive rates, ensuring both comfort and sustainability. With the convenience of a user-friendly mobile app, booking your ride has never been easier.
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2. Best time to visit District 11, Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The city has two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. With an average temperature of 27°C and occasional spikes above 40°C, Saigon weather is generally comfortable, especially in the evenings when the humidity level drops.
The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City in general and District 11 in particular. The pleasant weather during these months is ideal for outdoor exploration. Additionally, it is also the time of the Nguyen Tieu Festival, which takes place in the first lunar month (around February).
If you travel to Ho Chi Minh City during the rainy season, be prepared for sudden showers by carrying an umbrella or raincoat.
3. Things to do in District 11, Saigon
3.1. Visit cultural sites
3.1.1. Giac Vien Pagoda
- Location: 161/85/20 Lac Long Quan Street, Ward 3
Giac Vien Pagoda is one of the oldest temples in Saigon’s District 11, with a history spanning over 165 years. It embodies the traditional architecture of southern Vietnam, featuring two interconnected structures. The front section is dedicated to Buddhist worship, while the rear section houses a lecture hall and a reception area.
The pagoda is home to 153 statues and 57 intricately carved wooden panels, most of which date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its wooden framework, adorned with exquisite carvings, reflects folk themes. Notably, the Ba Dieu panel stands out, depicting a lively world of birds, from peacocks to nightingales and kingfishers.
3.1.2. Phung Son Temple
- Location: 3 Thang 2 Street, Ward 2
Phung Son Temple is not only an architectural gem of southern Vietnam but also a sacred haven where history, culture, and spirituality intertwine. It has a main hall, an ancestral hall, a stupa, and a shrine. These elements blend seamlessly, reflecting the deep-rooted influence of Buddhist heritage. Inside, Phung Son Temple houses around 40 statues masterfully carved from wood and adorned with gold. Among them, the statues of Di Da Tam Ton and Ngu Hien stand out for their artistic significance. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere is further enhanced by centuries-old trees, providing a serene retreat from the bustling city.
3.1.3. Khanh Van Nam Vien Taoist Temple
- Location: Nguyen Thi Nho Street, Ward 16
Khanh Van Nam Vien, the largest Taoist temple in southern Vietnam, is a rare sanctuary that harmonizes the "Three Teachings" (Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism). It preserves traditional architecture with a courtyard, a front hall, and a two-story main hall.
Khanh Van Nam Vien Taoist Temple hosts three major festivals annually: the Lü Dongbin Festival (14th day of the 4th lunar month), the Guan Yu Commemoration (24th day of the 6th lunar month), and the Jade Emperor Celebration (9th day of the 1st lunar month).
3.1.4. Vien Thong Buddhist Temple
- Location: 22B/762 Hong Bang Street, Ward 1
Vien Thong Buddhist Temple, a cherished spiritual site in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, has stood since 1930 as a beacon of Buddhist traditions. The temple’s serene grounds house the Guanyin Stupa built in 1988, along with sacred relics that reflect its deep-rooted history. Ancient lion statues guard the temple, while an aged bell and drum resonate with echoes of devotion. The front hall is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting the Buddha’s birth and enlightenment. Exquisitely carved wooden altars and panels featuring the Four Sacred Beasts and the Eight Immortals add to its mystical charm. Beyond being a place of worship, Vien Thong Temple welcomes visitors seeking reflection.
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3.2. Unwind at entertainment hubs
3.2.1. Dam Sen Cultural Park
- Location: Hoa Binh Street, Ward 3
Dam Sen Cultural Park is a dynamic recreational site that features over 30 exhilarating games, each providing its own one-of-a-kind adventure. For thrill-seekers, the park boasts 13 heart-pounding games, from roller coasters to waterfall plunges. Tech lovers can immerse themselves in 5 high-tech interactive activities, while families with children can unwind with 12 playful rides designed specifically for them. Beyond the excitement, Dam Sen Cultural Park also offers a zoo, an educational zone, and numerous scenic spots, ensuring a perfect getaway for visitors of all ages.
3.2.2. Dam Sen Water Park
- Location: Hoa Binh Street, Ward 3
Dam Sen Water Park is a refreshing oasis in the heart of Saigon’s District 11 and one of the top water parks in Saigon. It offers a perfect escape with 36 modern games and a refreshing 3,000-m² wave pool. Here, you can challenge yourself with a variety of rides, each bringing a unique sense of excitement. More than just a paradise for thrill-seekers, the park is also a wonderland for children, featuring a safe play area designed just for them. After an exhilarating day, visitors can indulge in delicious meals at convenient food stalls or a spacious restaurant within the park.
3.2.3. Dam Sen Square
- Location: Kenh Tan Hoa Street, Ward 3
Dam Sen Square is a vibrant hub in District 11. Inspired by the crane, a symbol of luck and longevity, this dynamic entertainment complex blends modern design with cultural charm. Its centerpiece, Dam Sen Square Night Market, has been preserving Saigon’s heritage. During the Lunar New Year, the area comes alive with festive energy, attracting visitors eager to shop, dine, and celebrate. Here, there is a stage featuring exciting performances, from live music and DJ sets to magic shows.
3.3. Enjoy dining and shopping
3.3.1. Ha Ton Quyen Food Street
- Location: Ha Ton Quyen Street, Ward 4
Ha Ton Quyen Food Street is a must-visit for food lovers. Here, you can explore the diversity of Ho Chi Minh City street food. Must-try dishes include dumplings, beef noodle soup, banh mi, mixed rice paper, broken rice, sweet soup, and crispy pancakes. All are delicious and affordable!
Here are some recommended eateries on Ha Ton Quyen Food Street:
- Sui Cao Thien Thien: No. 195
- Cuong Ky Mi Gia: No. 157
- Khai Ky - Mi Keo Kungfu: No. 116
- Sui Cao Ngoc Y: No. 187
- Sui Cao 162: No. 162
3.3.2. Thiec Market
- Location: Pho Co Dieu Street, Ward 6
Thiec Market has long been one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most popular destinations for trading gold and jewelry. With over 40 shops, it specializes in a wide range of gold accessories, particularly 18K gold. These shops primarily cater to everyday buyers who seek reasonably priced pieces for personal wear rather than for investment or resale. In addition to being one of the busiest Saigon markets, Thiec Market is also a renowned place for training skilled goldsmiths, playing a vital role in preserving the city’s long-standing jewelry-making tradition.
3.3.3. Lotte Mart
- Location: EverRich Building, No. 968 3 Thang 2 Street, Ward 15
The Lotte Mart in District 11 is an unmissable place for shopping in Ho Chi Minh City, offering an exciting blend of shopping and entertainment experiences. The first floor dazzles with a variety of jewelry and fashion items, while the second and third floors house a massive supermarket for essential products. On the fourth floor, families can enjoy a dedicated kids’ playground. This floor also has a section for buying electronics and home decor. The fifth floor promises a fun-filled experience with game arcades, a buffet restaurant, and a family-friendly food court.
3.4. Explore the Traditional Vietnamese Musical Instrument Gallery
- Location: 179ABCD Binh Thoi Street, Ward 9
The Traditional Vietnamese Musical Instrument Gallery, managed by the District 11 Cultural and Sports Center, offers an immersive journey into Vietnam's musical heritage. Featuring over 100 artifacts, this captivating gallery showcases a wide range of traditional musical instruments and costumes from various ethnic groups across the country. What makes this space even more special is its performance stage, where visitors can enjoy live demonstrations of traditional music.
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4. Ho Chi Minh City’s District 11 tours
The official tour named "District 11 - A Different Cho Lon" offers a cultural journey that seamlessly blends traditional learning with exciting discovery. It showcases key attractions in the district while highlighting eco-friendly, community-based activities.
The tour has options for both half-day and full-day experiences. The half-day tour covers highlights such as Vuon Da Coffee, Dam Sen Cultural Park, Thiec Market, Khanh Van Nam Vien Taoist Temple, Thang Nghia Ancestral Hall, and Ha Ton Quyen Food Street. The full-day tour includes additional attractions like Di Phat Tea Shop and Topart Fine Arts. Both tours combine sightseeing with recreational and culinary experiences, providing a well-rounded journey through this vibrant district.
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District 11, Ho Chi Minh City offers a peaceful escape from the city's usual bustle. While it lacks crowded hotspots of other districts, it shines with eco-friendly, community-based attractions.
Just a short distance away from District 11, Grand Park in Thu Duc City will enhance your visit to Ho Chi Minh City. This vibrant entertainment complex seamlessly blends exhilarating activities with captivating festivals. Whether you seek relaxation or an adrenaline rush, Grand Park promises an unforgettable experience for all.
After immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, you can explore other tourist destinations in Vietnam like Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long, each offering its own charm.
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