Local Wholesale Atmosphere
Experience the raw energy of a working market where locals trade everything from food to fabrics.
The beating heart of Saigon’s Chinatown — a sprawling wholesale market built in the 1920s, offering an authentic sensory dive into local life, cuisine, and commerce.
Binh Tay Market — also known as Cho Binh Tay — is the largest and most authentic wholesale market in Ho Chi Minh City’s historic Chinatown (Cholon). Built between 1928 and 1930 by the French colonial administration, this iconic market has been the commercial backbone of the city’s Chinese-Vietnamese community for nearly a century.
The market is a sprawling maze of narrow alleys and bustling stalls, offering everything from fresh produce, spices, and dried seafood to textiles, electronics, and traditional Chinese medicines. The central building features a striking clock tower and a courtyard, while the surrounding streets are lined with shops selling everything from fabric to funeral supplies. Unlike the tourist-oriented Ben Thanh Market, Binh Tay remains a working market where locals shop daily.
For travel professionals, Binh Tay Market offers clients an authentic glimpse into local life, fantastic street food, and endless photo opportunities. It’s a must-visit for any Ho Chi Minh City itinerary focused on culture and real-life experiences.
“Binh Tay Market was the highlight of our Chinatown walk. The energy, the colors, the smells — it’s completely overwhelming in the best possible way. Our clients loved the authentic street food and the clock tower photos.”
— Tour Manager, Australia
Authentic wholesale energy, colonial architecture, and a deep dive into Saigon’s Chinese-Vietnamese culture.
Experience the raw energy of a working market where locals trade everything from food to fabrics.
Admire the French-colonial design with a central clock tower and wide courtyards.
Sample authentic Chinese-Vietnamese dishes like hu tieu, banh cuon, and fresh tropical fruit.
Capture vibrant scenes of colorful produce, busy merchants, and the iconic clock tower.
Explore the heart of Cholon, with temples, herbal shops, and traditional Chinese medicine stores.
Find incredible deals on textiles, homewares, spices, and electronics — wholesale prices.
Explore guided tours and cultural experiences featuring Binh Tay Market.



Use these frameworks as a starting point, then customize around your client’s interests, schedule, and budget. Each itinerary can be tailored for any travel style.

An immersive journey into Saigon’s Chinatown, featuring Binh Tay Market, ancient temples, and the best Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine.
Customize This Journey
Explore the culinary riches of southern Vietnam, from Saigon’s street food markets to the floating markets of the Mekong.
Customize This Journey
A comprehensive Vietnam journey featuring the best of the north and south, including the authentic Binh Tay Market experience.
Customize This JourneyThe market is lively from early morning until late afternoon, with each time offering a unique atmosphere.
| Morning (6:00–9:00 AM) | Peak wholesale hours — the most vibrant energy, best for photography and fresh produce. |
|---|---|
| Mid-morning (9:00–11:00 AM) | Still busy, great for street food and exploring the surrounding Chinatown streets. |
| Afternoon (1:00–4:00 PM) | Slightly quieter, good for browsing textiles and household goods. |
| Weekends | Extra busy with local shoppers — even more authentic and photogenic. |
The market is located in District 6, about 7 km southwest of District 1. It’s easily accessible by taxi, bus, or tour.
A 20–30 minute ride from central Saigon. Grab is widely available and affordable.
Several bus routes (e.g., 1, 6, 61) stop near the market. An authentic local experience.
Most guided Chinatown tours include hotel pickup and a full market experience.
57 Thap Muoi Street, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City (Cholon).
We work directly with trusted local operators in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
All products are designed for travel advisors and tour operators, with clear commissions and terms.
Every itinerary can be tailored to your client’s exact needs — no fixed packages.
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Our local team is available around the clock to assist you and your clients.
We offer the best rates on market tours and experiences, ensuring maximum value for your clients.
Binh Tay Market offers clients an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Saigon’s Chinatown. We make it easy to incorporate this cultural hub into your custom packages.
Quick answers to the most common questions about Binh Tay Market.
Absolutely. Binh Tay Market is the largest and most authentic wholesale market in Saigon’s Chinatown, offering a true local experience that’s far less touristy than Ben Thanh Market.
It is known for its vast array of wholesale goods — from fresh produce and spices to textiles, household items, and traditional Chinese medicines. The market building itself is an architectural landmark with a central clock tower.
The market is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The busiest time is early morning when local traders stock fresh goods.
No, admission is free. The market is a working wholesale hub, so visitors can freely explore the bustling stalls and alleys.
Yes, photography is allowed and highly encouraged! The market is a photographer’s dream, but always ask permission before taking close-ups of vendors.
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The market is bustling and can get warm, so light, breathable fabrics are ideal.
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the market and the surrounding Chinatown streets. For a deeper experience, combine with a street food or temple tour.
Let Indochina Partner craft the perfect Chinatown experience for your clients.
Start planning your Ho Chi Minh City itineraries today.