MIX N MATCH
CULTURE
Getting bored because of hustle and bustle District 1? This is where you should come.
Being in the heart of the city, District 4 is the definition of a mix-and-match culture. Made up of three different ingredients - islet, modernisation, tradition- it will offer you a rare glimpse into Saigon's local vibe. With its distinct character of a unique “river islet” and the blend of traditional cultural heritage and the bustling, vibrant atmosphere of the present, it will bring you to an unforgettable experience which you can feel Saigon throughout all timelines.
Saigon's cultural folder
Islet
Nguyễn Kiều Islet
Everything comes from an origin, Saigon does the same.
You may be impressed by Saigon by its breath of modern air - but - do - you - know - that it used to be a riverside area? If you don’t know, now it’s time. Wandering through Nguyễn Kiều Islet, you will experience riverine culture in the heart of the city. Bordered by the Kenh Te canal, Ben Van Don Street, and the Nguyen Van Cu Bridge, it’s a unique 2.7-hectare pocket of land. The whole urban slum history of old Saigon right will appear before your eyes once you come with its features: a mix of half-demolished structures and makeshift housing next to waterways.
Get to come and get to know how Saigon goes.
Tradition
Let the soulful, deep tones of Vietnamese guitars lead you into the heart of Tôn Đản Guitar-Making Village. Here, you’ll observe skilled artisans transform carefully selected pieces of wood into beautiful, handcrafted instruments, shaping every detail from the first cut to the final string. Each of them carries its own artistic fingerprint, reflecting generations of craftsmanship and passion. Despite the challenges of mass production, the village’s musical legacy lives on through family-run workshops such as Guitar Ba Đờn, whose handmade instruments have reached music lovers around the world.
Amid the lively buzz of passing motorbikes, discover a hidden world where tradition, artistry, and music come together to tell the story of Vietnamese craftsmanship.
Tôn Đản Guitar-making Village
The sound of Đờn ca tài tử - traditional Southern Vietnamese music echoes through the alley.
From the moment my husband, the warrior,
With a sharp precious sword, set forth on his journey,
I look out in vain, day and night, for news of the wild geese,
Through the five watches of the night, lost in a hazy dream.
I long in vain for word from my love,
Oh, my golden heart twists in agony...
Xóm Chiếu Market
Get out of your bed at night if you come to Saigon.
Famous for the name “sleepless city”, Saigon will offer you a night experience that you can find nowhere in this world - especially when you visit Xom Chieu Market (often called Chợ 200).
By day, it bustles with fresh produce and daily essentials; by night, it transforms into a street-food paradise, with hundreds of stalls tucked into narrow alleyways. Follow the irresistible aromas of sizzling seafood, crispy bánh khọt, and Northern Vietnamese specialties, each reflecting the diverse culinary traditions that make Saigon so unique.
Modernisation
Located on Lê Văn Linh Street, this lively local market offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Saigon life, where friendly vendors, honest prices, and a close-knit community make visitors feel part of the neighborhood.
Let’s discover a place where food is more than a meal, where night is more than a time, where life is more than a slice.
things you may need
Nguyen Kieu Islet
Vinh Hoi Ward, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Ton Dan Guitar-making Village
Ton Dan Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Xom Chieu Market
No. 1 Dinh Le Street, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Address
WHAT TO BRING
Phone
Cash
Camera
Bag
Charger
Energetic vibe
Wander through Nguyen Kieu Islet
Eat Banh Khot at Xom Chieu Market
Buy a guitar at Ton Dan Guitar-making Village
Take photo
Listen to Đờn ca tài tử
Immerse yourself in District 4 atmosphere
Explore alleys
CHECK-LIST
Motorbike
Grab / Be / Xanh SM
Car
Bike
Bus