THUYTRINH'S BLOG: Ben Thanh Market

Location

Ben Thanh Market is situated at the intersection of Le Loi Avenue, Ham Nghi Avenue, Tran Hung Dao Avenue and Le Lai Street, 700m south-west of the Rex Hotel.

At present, the front of Ben Thanh Market faces Quach Thi Trang Square; its rear faces Le Thanh Ton Street; its right, Phan Chu Trinh Street and its left, Phan Boi Chau Street.

History

The market developed from informal markets created by early 17th century street vendors gathering together near the Saigon River. The market was formally established by the French colonial powers after taking over the Gia Dinh citadel in 1859 (see Citadel of Saigon). This market was destroyed by fire in 1870 and rebuilt to become Saigon's largest market. In 1912 the market was moved to a new building and called the New Bến Thành Market to distinguish over its predecessor. The building was renovated in 1985.

Characteristics

Ben Thanh market where you can find out some informations about Vietnamese culture via food and products. Ben Thanh market s a great place for someone who love and want to buy local handicrafts, branded goods, Vietnamese art and other souvenirs. Silk goods are displayed in a very attractive way that always catches the eyes of the buyers,

However, it's famous for being an expensive market even for locals. When at Ben Thanh, my best advice for you is try to bargain.

Transport

Apart from being a major hub for the network of city buses serving Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is a hub for several lines of the planned Ho Chi Minh City Metro; Line 1, under construction, will connect Ben Thanh with Suoi Tien Park and Long Binh in District 9. Other lines will connect Bến Thành with Tham Luong in District 12, and with Cho Lon and Binh Tan District.