Binh Tay Market (Chợ Lớn) – A historic market in the Chợ Lớn area, built by the Chinese businessman Quach Dam, notable for its Oriental tiled-roof architecture and central clock tower. It is a major wholesale hub as well as a prime cultural sightseeing destination for discovering Saigon’s Chinese heritage.
Quick Overview
- Address: 57A Thap Muoi, Binh Tay Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: From early morning to late afternoon; busiest in the morning
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Historic architecture, wholesale dried goods, candied fruits and treats, Chinese cuisine
History and Features
- Construction began in 1928 and was completed in 1930, funded by the merchant Quach Dam.
- The building features an open central courtyard, multi-tiered tiled roofs, and a clock tower, reflecting a distinct East Asian architectural style.
- The market was renovated in 1992, with its latest major restoration project launched in 2016.
- It houses over a thousand stalls across the ground and upper floors, operating primarily on a wholesale basis.
What to Buy at Binh Tay Market (Chợ Lớn)
- Candied fruits, candies, roasted nuts and seeds, and tea – especially leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year).
- Dried foodstuffs, dried seafood, spices, and traditional Chinese herbal medicine.
- Dinnerware, ceramics, and household goods.
- Clothing, footwear, and textiles at wholesale prices.
What to Eat at Binh Tay Market (Chợ Lớn)
- The food court at the rear of the market offers a wide variety of prepared dishes.
- Chinese specialties like pha lau (braised offal), dumplings, and herbal braised duck are available around the market area.
- Steamed rice rolls (bánh ướt), porridge, and sweet soups (chè) for breakfast or light snacking.
How to Get There
- Located in the Chợ Lớn area, approximately a 20–30 minute drive from the central District 1.
- Situated close to the Cho Lon Bus Station, with numerous bus routes connecting from the city center.
- Motorbike parking is available around the market's entrance gates.
Tips for Visitors
- Many stalls focus primarily on wholesale; be sure to ask beforehand if you wish to buy retail.
- The market is spacious, so wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
- Keep your belongings secure, as the aisles can be narrow and crowded.
- Nearby attractions include Cha Tam Church and various Chinese assembly halls and temples throughout the Chợ Lớn area.
Reference Prices
- Dried jackfruit: around 200,000 VND/kg.
- Beef jerky: approximately 300,000–650,000 VND/kg depending on the variety.
- Premium dried shrimp: up to about 1,600,000 VND/kg.
- Cashews: around 200,000–350,000 VND/kg.
Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the season and individual stalls.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning is the liveliest time for wholesale trading, ideal for experiencing the bustling market atmosphere.
- Mid-morning to early afternoon tends to be less crowded, making it more convenient for exploring the market's architecture.
- About a month before the Lunar New Year (Tet), the market is exceptionally vibrant as locals shop for candied fruits, nuts, and tea.
- In the evening, the street food areas surrounding the market gates stay open until around midnight.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Payment: Vendors accept cash or QR code transfers; cards are rarely accepted.
- Restrooms: The market has public restrooms that may charge a small fee; ask vendors for directions.
- Language: Vendors primarily speak Vietnamese or Chinese, and very few speak English, so it is recommended to use translation apps or a calculator to bargain.
- Retail Purchases: The market is primarily wholesale, so ask beforehand if retail purchase is available, and you can bargain by about 20–30%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Binh Tay Market open?
The market operates from early morning until late afternoon, with the morning being the liveliest time.
Is Binh Tay Market the same as Cho Lon?
Locals often call Binh Tay Market the "New Cho Lon," located at the heart of the Cho Lon Chinatown area.
Does Binh Tay Market sell retail?
The market is mainly wholesale, but many stalls still sell retail, especially those selling preserved fruits, jams, sweets, and dried goods.
Need a guide when visiting Binh Tay Market (Cho Lon)?
- Post a free tour guide request – receive quotes from local tour guides and interpreters.
- Explore available tours or request a customized tour.
- Car rentals and airport transfers.
See Also
Market opening hours and operations are subject to change; please verify before your visit.
