1. Overview of District 8, Ho Chi Minh City
Located in the southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, District 8 spans 1,917 hectares and features a well-developed waterway transport system. Positioned between the historic urban districts (District 5 and District 6) and the more modern South Saigon area, District 8 is at the heart of urbanization, blending tradition with dynamic growth.
With an extensive network of canals, ports, and some of the city's largest warehouses, District 8, Ho Chi Minh City serves as a key transit hub connecting the Mekong Delta region to Ho Chi Minh City. It not only thrives economically but also holds great potential for river tourism, boasting many cultural sites along with favorable waterway infrastructure.
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2. What to do in District 8, Saigon?
2.1. Visit cultural sites
2.1.1. An Phu Pagoda
- Location: 24 Pham Hung Street
An Phu Pagoda, also known as Mieng Sanh Pagoda, is one of the oldest temples in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City. This pagoda stands out with its folk-inspired architecture, featuring intricate decorations made entirely of ceramic and porcelain shards, all centered around Buddhist themes.
What truly sets An Phu Pagoda apart is the dedication behind its creation. Over the years, monks and devotees have meticulously gathered, cut, and arranged thousands of discarded ceramic pieces, transforming them into artworks. This massive endeavor involved over 30 tons of ceramic fragments and took approximately 20,000 labor days to complete.
Adding to its uniqueness, the pagoda houses two pairs of towering candles that set national records in 2005 and 2006 as the tallest and heaviest of their kind in Vietnam. An Phu Pagoda has also been recognized by the Vietnam Book of Records as the temple with the most extensive use of ceramic shards in its design.
2.1.2. Binh Dong Communal House
- Location: Ba Tang Islet
Binh Dong Communal House, with over 170 years of history, is a spiritual gem in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City. Built before 1853, it retains the original architecture despite multiple restorations. The communal house features a main hall and a spacious courtyard shaded by lush greenery. Its striking triple-arch gate, adorned with the iconic motif “two dragons chasing a pearl”, reflects the classic design of Vietnamese temples.
More than a historical attraction, Binh Dong Communal House is a captivating place for spiritual tourism, especially on river tours. Here, visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, admire traditional Vietnamese architecture, and engage in cultural activities that celebrate Vietnam’s revolutionary history and the vibrant heritage of the region.
2.1.3. Sung Chinh Assembly Hall
- Location: 17 Truong Dinh Hoi Street
Sung Chinh Assembly Hall is the only Chinese assembly hall in Ho Chi Minh City that enshrines a statue of the Four-Face Buddha, which was brought from Thailand. This assembly hall showcases Chinese architecture, featuring a jade-green curved roof that contrasts beautifully with its signature red tones.
Sung Chinh Assembly Hall has a triple-arch gate, a main hall, dining quarters, and living quarters. Inside the spacious courtyard stands a majestic 9.9-meter-tall statue of Guanyin, surrounded by shrines dedicated to the Four-Face Buddha, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the God of Wealth, and the God of Land.
Here, visitors can admire the stunning architecture while seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and love.
2.2. Stroll around Binh Dong Wharf
- Location: Binh Dong Street
Binh Dong Wharf is a captivating attraction that reflects the architectural legacy of the Chinese community in Vietnam. Once a bustling trade hub connecting Saigon with the Mekong Delta, it still preserves its ancient charm, especially during the Lunar New Year when colorful flower boats line the waterfront and create a festive atmosphere.
As night falls, Binh Dong Wharf takes on a magical glow. The shimmering lights reflect off the pristine waters of Tau Hu Canal, while the historic storefronts and warehouses exude a nostalgic beauty. Here, visitors can take a scenic stroll, enjoy a boat ride along the canal, and snap stunning photos at the row of old warehouses. You can also relax and savor local delicacies at nearby eateries.
2.3. Explore Pham The Hien Street
- Location: Ward 7
Pham The Hien Street in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling area where culture, commerce, and local life come together. With markets, shopping centers, residential neighborhoods, and religious sites, the street is always full of energy. During Christmas, Pham The Hien Parish becomes the heart of the celebration, turning the entire street into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Strings of lights twinkle overhead, nativity scenes are carefully arranged, and festive decorations fill every corner. Strolling around at this time, visitors can soak in the festive energy, marvel at beautiful displays, and snap stunning photos under the radiant lights.
2.4. Tour Binh Dien Wholesale Market
- Location: Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard
Binh Dien Wholesale Market is one of the largest Saigon markets for agricultural and seafood products. Covering an expansive 65 hectares, it is a bustling trade center where vendors and buyers from all over the country gather. The market is divided into seven large halls and two warehouses, with around 1,400 stalls specializing in seafood, pork, beef, and fresh produce. A tour of Binh Dien Wholesale Market offers visitors a deeper insight into the local life. Here, you can sample regional specialties, pick up unique gifts for family, and engage with the friendly vendors.
2.5. Take photos at The Pegasuite Apartment Building
- Location: Ta Quang Buu Street, Ward 6
The Pegasuite Apartment Building is one of the hottest photography spots in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City, offering a stunning European-inspired setting. Renowned for its white buildings and picturesque walkways, this place feels like a mini Europe right in the heart of Saigon. There are no entrance fees to this area, and the lack of crowds allow for an enjoyable experience with countless photo opportunities set against an elegant backdrop. To match the sophisticated ambiance here, consider stylish streetwear or refined attire.
2.6. Enjoy local foods
District 8, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers a feast for the senses, where visitors can savor the most iconic Ho Chi Minh City street foods. From street vendors to hidden eateries, you can indulge in mouth-watering dishes at incredibly affordable prices from just 20,000 VND.
For those looking to experience the best of District 8’s street food, here are some must-tries:
- Com tam Ba Ha: 389 Hung Phu Street
- Chao trang Co Chau: 32 Da Nam Street
- Sup cua oc heo Kieu: 166 Duong Lam Street
- Banh trang chien Hung Phu: 144/24 Hung Phu Street
- Banh xep Co Gai: 350/19 Phung Thien Vuong Street
2.7. See Ngoc Phat Stone Carving Shop
- Location: 3A Vo Van Kiet Street
In District 8, HCMC, Ngoc Phat Stone Carving Shop is an unmissable place for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship. Specializing in the art of stone hand-carving, this shop showcases a wide collection of Buddhist sculptures and feng shui pieces, all meticulously crafted from natural stone by skilled artisans.
Created to honor Vietnamese Buddhist traditions, Ngoc Phat Stone Carving Shop offers visitors a chance to admire exquisite statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Beyond religious art, the shop also features a variety of hand-crafted stone decor, making it a fascinating stop for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
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3. Guide for visitors to Ho Chi Minh City’s District 8
3.1. Best time to visit
Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, featuring warm temperatures year-round. The city experiences two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. With temperatures averaging 27°C and occasionally exceeding 40°C, the weather remains relatively pleasant thanks to the low humidity, especially in the evening.
Thus, Saigon weather makes it a great destination to visit at any time of the year. Still, the dry season from December to April is the best time to explore the city. This season offers ideal conditions for sightseeing, street food tours, and outdoor activities. If you visit the city during the rainy season, an umbrella or light raincoat will help you stay prepared for sudden showers.
3.2. Transport
To reach District 8, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from District 1, follow this route: Dong Khoi Street - Ton Duc Thang Street - Vo Van Kiet Street - Dinh Hoa Street - Binh Dong Street - Luu Huu Phuoc Street.
Getting around District 8 is easy with various transport options available. Motorbikes are a convenient choice for short distances. For a more local experience, buses provide an affordable way to travel, with several routes passing through District 8 including 08, 25, 34, 45, and 47. Bicycles offer a scenic way to explore the district at a relaxed pace.
For a smooth travel experience, consider using the service of Xanh SM. As Vietnam’s first electric taxi company, Xanh SM offers modern, well-maintained vehicles with affordable rates and the convenience of booking through an easy-to-use mobile app.
3.3. Popular tours
Ho Chi Minh City’s District 8 has an official tour that offers a unique journey through one of the city’s most culturally rich areas. With an extensive network of rivers and canals, District 8 provides an authentic look into the vibrant local life along the waterways.
This tour takes visitors to attractions such as Binh Dong Communal House, Binh Thuan Church, Binh Dong Wharf, and Binh Dien Wholesale Market. You can also take part in hands-on activities at workshops that bring the local culture to life, such as making banh tet (Vietnamese sticky rice cake), baking banh mi (Vietnamese baguette), or shaping to he (Vietnamese figurines). The tour also includes visits to craft villages and opportunities to taste local dishes.
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District 8, Ho Chi Minh City offers a captivating experience for those looking to explore a different side of this vibrant metropolis. Stepping away from the city's bustling heart, visitors will discover tranquil canals, charming neighborhoods, and rich heritage. From lively street food stalls to traditional craft shops, the district offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
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