HCMC – Embarking on a journey on bus number 39, travelers can explore a number of wet markets and other fascinating destinations in HCMC, such as Mong Bridge, Hoa Binh Market, Russian Market, and Hai Thuong Lan Ong old quarter.
Mong Bridge
Mong Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in HCMC, crosses the Ben Nghe Canal, linking districts 1 and 4. Constructed by the Eiffel company in 1893-1894, the bridge spans 128 meters in length and 5.2 meters in width, featuring a 0.5-meter-wide pedestrian walkway.
Originally, Mong Bridge served both pedestrians and vehicles but was later designated exclusively for pedestrians. During the construction of the Mai Chi Tho-Vo Van Kiet Boulevard and the Saigon River Tunnel, the bridge was dismantled and subsequently reassembled after the project’s completion.
Hoa Binh Market
Situated on Bach Van Street, Ward 5, District 5, Hoa Binh Market is one of HCMC’s oldest traditional wet markets. Offering a diverse array of products, it operates daily from 4 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Close to the market are three streets renowned for trading in gold, silver, gemstones, and specialized tools for craftsmen: Nhieu Tam, Nghia Thuc, and Bui Huu Nghia. From Hoa Binh Market, tourists can conveniently explore other landmarks, including Cho Quan Church, the Cho Lon Mosque, and Dong Da Theater.
Hai Thuong Lan Ong old quarter
Hai Thuong Lan Ong Old Quarter, situated along the street of the same name, was established in 1864. This historic quarter is renowned as the oldest and largest traditional Chinese trading and herbal medicine hub in HCMC, characterized by numerous unique ancient Chinese houses in the Cho Lon area.
According to the Vietnam News Agency, the Chinese community erected warehouses to store goods in the late 19th century, leading to the establishment of a vibrant neighborhood around Hai Thuong Lan Ong, Trieu Quang Phuc, and Phung Hung streets, marked by 16 distinctive Chinese-style houses.
Hai Thuong Lan Ong old quarter is associated with two-story houses built in a distinctive architectural style. Currently, the street still hosts numerous traditional Chinese medicine shops and stores selling decorative items. In July 2010, the HCMC Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism officially recognized Hai Thuong Lan Ong as the oldest ancient quarter in the city.
Russian Market
The Russian Market, located at 328 Vo Van Kiet Street, Co Giang Ward, District 1, has been operational for over two decades. Renowned for its unique offerings, the market specializes in goods exported to or imported from Russia. Visitors can explore a diverse range of Russian clothing and merchandise at reasonable prices.
