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District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City

District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City: A handy travel guide

12/01/2025 80 views

District 4, Ho Chi Minh City is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and culinary delights. From bustling streets to iconic landmarks, this small yet lively district offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the soul of Saigon.

1. Overview of District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

District 4, Ho Chi Minh City is a triangular islet nestled in the heart of the city. This area offers a perfect blend of modern urban amenities, traditional culture, and stunning riverside views. Thus, Saigon’s District 4 is an appealing destination for both tourists and locals alike.

District 4 Ho Chi Minh City

District 4 promises a memorable experience for locals and tourists alike (Source: Collected)

District 4 has a rich history, dating back to the late 17th century when it was part of Gia Dinh Province. Over time, it evolved from a relatively isolated area into a thriving urban hub. High-rise residential buildings, office towers, and bustling commercial centers have redefined its skyline. 

District 4, Ho Chi Minh City is surrounded by three waterways: the Saigon River, the Ben Nghe Canal, and the Te Canal.

Explore: Map of Ho Chi Minh City’s districts & useful travel tips

2. Is District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists?

Is District 4, Ho Chi Minh City safe to visit? Many decades ago, District 4 was notorious as an area with many social issues in Ho Chi Minh City. It was considered a no-go zone, even for locals, due to the reign of Nam Cam – an infamous gang leader.

However, following the arrest of Nam Cam, the authority introduced significant reforms to District 4, Saigon. The area has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a safe, appealing destination for visitors.

With its vibrant streets, walkable neighborhoods, and attractions close to the city center, Ho Chi Minh City’s District 4 has become popular. Here, you can explore Michelin-recognized restaurants, stylish cafes, and bustling streets, along with everything needed for a truly unforgettable travel experience.

District 4 is now a dynamic area in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

District 4, Vietnam is now a dynamic area in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

3. Unmissable attractions in Saigon’s District 4

3.1. Nha Rong Wharf – Ho Chi Minh Museum

Nha Rong Wharf is a symbolic landmark of District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, a must-see attraction. Situated along the Saigon River, it offers views of Bach Dang Wharf and the striking Thu Thiem 2 Bridge in the distance.

This site holds great significance in Vietnam’s history. On June 5, 1922, Ho Chi Minh, the nation’s revered leader, set out from here on a 30-year journey to seek the path to national independence.

Originally built as the headquarters of Saigon Commercial Port, Nha Rong Wharf is now home to Ho Chi Minh Museum – Ho Chi Minh City Branch. The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and photographs that commemorate Ho Chi Minh’s life and his relentless pursuit of freedom for Vietnam.

  • Address: 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
Nha Rong Wharf in district 4 Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Rong Wharf showcases remarkable architecture (Source: Collected)

3.2. Mong Bridge

Mong Bridge crosses the Ben Nghe Canal, linking Vo Van Kiet Street in District 1 with Ben Van Don Street in District 4. Constructed between 1893 and 1894, it was built using the Eiffel engineering method.

Historically, the bridge once stood in a vibrant zone known for its prosperous trading activities. Today, it remains a landmark next to modern structures like Dong Tay Boulevard, Thu Thiem Tunnel, and Bitexco Financial Tower. As such, it serves as a testament to the city’s development through various periods.

Currently, Mong Bridge is a popular attraction for visitors. Late afternoon is the peak time for tourists who come to capture scenic views of Saigon, enjoy the refreshing breeze, or film memorable moments with this bridge as a backdrop.

  • Address: Between Pasteur Street and Nguyen Truong To Street
Mong Bridge is a famous attraction in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 4

Mong Bridge is a famous attraction in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 4 (Source: Collected)

3.3. Vinh Hoi Communal House

Vinh Hoi Communal House is one of the few remaining historical sites in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City that still preserves a royal decree issued by Emperor Tu Duc in 1895. The communal house retains traditional architectural features. Here, the main hall is constructed in the distinctive “four-pillar” style, a hallmark of Southern Vietnam’s communal houses.

A visit to Vinh Hoi Communal House allows travelers to admire its architectural beauty while gaining deeper insights into the local traditions. Each year, the communal house hosts the Ky Yen Festival on the 12th, 13th, and 14th days of the 2nd lunar month. This event not only serves as a spiritual gathering but also highlights the richness of the local heritage.

  • Address: 240 Ben Van Don Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
Vinh Hoi Communal House in Ho Chi Minh City

The traditional charm of Vinh Hoi Communal House (Source: Collected)

3.4. Khanh Hoi Communal House

Khanh Hoi Communal House is another cultural attraction in District 4, Vietnam. Recognized as an architectural and artistic monument in 2006, the communal house is known for its distinctive design. It includes a main hall and a Five Element Temple. Both buildings have tiled roofs. There is a spacious courtyard that runs from the front of the temple to the main hall. On the right side of the main hall, there is an altar dedicated to ancestor worship.

Each year, Khanh Hoi Communal House hosts the Ky Yen Festival on the 15th, 16th, and 17th days of the 2nd lunar month. During the festival, visitors come to pray for favorable weather, bountiful harvests, luck, and prosperity.

  • Address: 71-73 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
Khanh Hoi Communal House in Saigon's District 4

Khanh Hoi Communal House is another cultural attraction in Saigon’s District 4 (Source: Collected)

3.5. The Headquarters of Lien Thanh Fish Sauce Company

Lien Thanh Fish Sauce Company played a significant role in history for its financial support in assisting Ho Chi Minh during his journey to Saigon and later to France. Today, visitors can shop for high-quality fish sauce while admiring the building’s enchanting glow when it is illuminated at night.

  • Address: 243 Ben Van Don Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

3.6. Xom Chieu Market

Xom Chieu Market, also known as Cho 200, is a must-visit for food lovers. Nestled in the heart of District 4, Saigon, this market operates from 5 PM until late at night. Here, visitors can explore over 500 food stalls offering a diverse range of street foods. Highlights include fresh seafood, snails, black-dried beef, pha lau, crab soup, and more. The food is not only delicious but also affordable. With just 200,000 VND, you can enjoy everything the market has to offer.

  • Address: Dinh Le Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
Xom Chieu Market is a culinary paradise in Saigon’s District 4

Xom Chieu Market is a culinary paradise in Saigon’s District 4 (Source: Collected)

3.7. The old house at No. 236, Ben Van Don Street

The old house at 236 Ben Van Don Street (now a cultural and sports center) is a notable example of urban old houses in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. Recognized as a municipal-level architectural heritage site in 2011, it also serves as a museum, displaying valuable documents and photographs that narrate the struggles of District 4 during Vietnam’s resistance wars.

  • Address: 236 Ben Van Don Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Check out more places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City!

4. What to eat in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City?

District 4 is a haven for street foods in Ho Chi Minh City. Here are some standout hotspots and their iconic dishes:

  • Vinh Khanh Food Street: Renowned as a paradise for street food in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, this lively street is packed with eateries offering an array of delicious dishes, especially snails. Popular names include Oc Oanh, Oc Dao, Oc Vu, and Oc Thao.
  • Xom Chieu Market: From late afternoon, vendors line the streets around this market, offering affordable treats like pha lau, crab soup, mixed rice paper, fried chicken, and sweet soup.
  • 20 Thuoc Street: Only about 200 meters long, this short yet vibrant street is brimming with food stalls. It is known for grilled octopus and also called a paradise for flan paradise. Other highlights include sushi, sashimi, Japanese rice cakes, caramel pudding, and many more.
  • Ton Dan Street: This street offers a wide selection of Southern Vietnamese specialties. Visitors can enjoy dishes like pha lau, Chau Doc fish noodles, grilled pork spring rolls, sticky rice, and snails.
District 4, Saigon is a haven for street food

District 4, Saigon is a haven for street food (Source: Collected)

5. Extra tips for a perfect journey to District 4, Vietnam

Below are some Ho Chi Minh City travel tips that you can apply in your trip to District 4, Saigon: 

  • Research the attractions to make the most of your journey.
  • Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering to help with directions.
  • Choose reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing mobile apps like Xanh SM to book a taxi or motorbike taxi from Tan Son Nhat Airport (10 km away). 
  • Divide your money into smaller amounts for purchases.
  • If you are looking for meaningful gifts in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, consider high-quality leather shoes. This area was once considered Saigon’s “shoe capital.”
  • Another excellent option for souvenirs is the premium Lien Thanh fish sauce.

District 4, Ho Chi Minh City is more than just a neighborhood; it is a melting pot of culture, history, and flavor. Its blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy captures the essence of life in Saigon. Whether you are seeking cultural explorations or culinary adventures, District 4 is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Beyond District 4, Ho Chi Minh City boasts many other destinations for tourists to explore. Among them, there is VinWonders Grand Park, a cutting-edge amusement park scheduled to open in December 2024 in Thu Duc City. VinWonders Grand Park features a sprawling water park, state-of-the-art games, and vibrant festivals that cater to visitors of all ages. Conveniently located near bustling shopping streets, it will be a perfect place for families to create unforgettable memories.

VinWonders Grand Park

VinWonders Grand Park

VinWonders Grand Park offers an unparalleled mix of thrilling games and family-friendly activities

 

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