Binh Tay Market, Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide | Indochina Partner
Ho Chi Minh City · Chinatown · Wholesale Culture

Binh Tay Market

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.

CityHo Chi Minh City
Built1928–1930
TypeWholesale Market
StyleFrench-colonial / Cantonese
AreaDistrict 6 (Cholon)
Best ForPhotography & Local Culture
Attraction Guide

About Binh Tay Market

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
Binh Tay Market bustling entrance
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Why Visit Binh Tay Market?

Authentic wholesale energy, colonial architecture, and a deep dive into Saigon’s Chinese-Vietnamese culture.

Local Wholesale Atmosphere

Experience the raw energy of a working market where locals trade everything from food to fabrics.

Colonial Architecture

Admire the French-colonial design with a central clock tower and wide courtyards.

Street Food Paradise

Sample authentic Chinese-Vietnamese dishes like hu tieu, banh cuon, and fresh tropical fruit.

Photography Dream

Capture vibrant scenes of colorful produce, busy merchants, and the iconic clock tower.

Chinatown Immersion

Explore the heart of Cholon, with temples, herbal shops, and traditional Chinese medicine stores.

Shopping Bargains

Find incredible deals on textiles, homewares, spices, and electronics — wholesale prices.

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Book Binh Tay Market Experiences

Explore guided tours and cultural experiences featuring Binh Tay Market.

Binh Tay Market guided tour
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Chinatown & Binh Tay Market Walk

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Saigon Street Food & Market Tour

Private · 4 Hours · 10+ Tastings
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Photography tour
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Saigon Photography Tour (Chinatown)

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Plan

Binh Tay Market in Our Vietnam Itineraries

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.

Chinatown heritage itinerary

Cholon Cultural Discovery — 3 Days

3 DaysHo Chi Minh CityBinh Tay MarketChinese Temples

An immersive journey into Saigon’s Chinatown, featuring Binh Tay Market, ancient temples, and the best Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine.

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Southern Vietnam food itinerary

Southern Vietnam Food Trail — 9 Days

9 DaysHo Chi Minh CityBinh Tay MarketMekong Delta

Explore the culinary riches of southern Vietnam, from Saigon’s street food markets to the floating markets of the Mekong.

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Vietnam highlights itinerary

Vietnam Highlights — 14 Days

14 DaysHanoiHo Chi Minh CityBinh Tay Market

A comprehensive Vietnam journey featuring the best of the north and south, including the authentic Binh Tay Market experience.

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Planning

Best Time to Visit Binh Tay Market

The 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.
WeekendsExtra busy with local shoppers — even more authentic and photogenic.
Getting There

How to Get to Binh Tay Market

The market is located in District 6, about 7 km southwest of District 1. It’s easily accessible by taxi, bus, or tour.

By Taxi

A 20–30 minute ride from central Saigon. Grab is widely available and affordable.

By Bus

Several bus routes (e.g., 1, 6, 61) stop near the market. An authentic local experience.

By Tour

Most guided Chinatown tours include hotel pickup and a full market experience.

Address

57 Thap Muoi Street, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City (Cholon).

Why Book With Us

Why Book Through Indochina Partner?

Local Suppliers

We work directly with trusted local operators in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

B2B-Ready Services

All products are designed for travel advisors and tour operators, with clear commissions and terms.

Flexible Customization

Every itinerary can be tailored to your client’s exact needs — no fixed packages.

One Regional Partner

Simplify your operations with a single point of contact for the entire Indochina region.

24/7 Support

Our local team is available around the clock to assist you and your clients.

Competitive Rates

We offer the best rates on market tours and experiences, ensuring maximum value for your clients.

Binh Tay Market for Travel Advisors & Tour Operators

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.

  • Commissionable rates on all market tours and packages.
  • Vetted local guides with deep knowledge of Chinatown’s history, culture, and cuisine.
  • Flexible booking — individual or group, private or shared.
  • 24/7 local support for you and your clients while in destination.
  • Customizable experiences — combine with nearby temples, Chinese medicine shops, and street food tours.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common questions about Binh Tay Market.

Is Binh Tay Market worth visiting?

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.

What is Binh Tay Market known for?

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.

What are the opening hours of Binh Tay Market?

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.

Is there an entrance fee for Binh Tay Market?

No, admission is free. The market is a working wholesale hub, so visitors can freely explore the bustling stalls and alleys.

Is photography allowed in Binh Tay Market?

Yes, photography is allowed and highly encouraged! The market is a photographer’s dream, but always ask permission before taking close-ups of vendors.

What should I wear when visiting Binh Tay Market?

Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The market is bustling and can get warm, so light, breathable fabrics are ideal.

How long does a visit to Binh Tay Market take?

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.

Ready to explore Binh Tay Market?

Let Indochina Partner craft the perfect Chinatown experience for your clients.
Start planning your Ho Chi Minh City itineraries today.

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