District 10 Ho Chi Minh City: Ultimate Guide to Culture, Food & Hidden Gems

Looking to explore an authentic and energetic side of Ho Chi Minh City? District 10 might just be the hidden gem you're searching for. Tucked between the city's better-known districts, this vibrant neighborhood offers a rich blend of culture, street food, shopping, and everyday life that few tourists get to experience. From traditional markets and heritage temples to bustling food alleys and modern malls, District 10 showcases the perfect balance between old and new Saigon. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a curious local, this complete guide will help you uncover the best attractions, food spots, and cultural highlights District 10 has to offer.

1. Brief Information on District 10

To truly appreciate the dynamic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, understanding District 10 is essential. Located in the heart of the city, this district is known for its energetic atmosphere, high population density, and deep cultural roots.

District 10 was officially established in 1976 during the administrative reorganization of Ho Chi Minh City. Since then, it has grown rapidly both in population and infrastructure, becoming one of the most densely inhabited and commercially active areas in the city.

Covering approximately 5.72 square kilometers, District 10 has a population exceeding 240,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated districts in Ho Chi Minh City. This high density contributes to its vibrant street life, bustling neighborhoods, and constant activity. It shares its borders with several other central districts:

• To the north: bordered by Tan Binh District
• To the east: bordered by District 3
• To the west: bordered by District 11
• To the south: bordered by District 5

Its central location makes District 10 an ideal gateway to explore both modern and traditional aspects of Saigon.

District 10 stands out for several unique features:

• It has one of the highest population densities in the city, making it a highly energetic and dynamic area.
• It is a major educational hub, home to various universities, high schools, and vocational training centers.
• The district is famous for its traditional markets such as Nhat Tao and Ky Hoa, as well as a vibrant street food scene that reflects both Vietnamese and Chinese influences.
• District 10 is a unique blend of modern and traditional culture, where old alleyways and heritage buildings sit alongside new shopping malls and cafes.

Important Notice: According to the Vietnamese National Assembly Standing Committee's Resolution 1686/NQ-UBTVQH15, starting July 1, 2025, District 10 will no longer function as an administrative unit in its current form.

Instead, the existing 15 wards will be merged into 3 new administrative wards, as follows:

• Vuon Lai Ward (new): formed by merging Wards 1, 2, 4, 9, and 10
• Dien Hong Ward (new): formed by merging Wards 6, 8, and 14
• Hoa Hung Ward (new): formed by merging Wards 12, 13,15, and the rest of Ward 14.

This restructuring aims to improve governance efficiency, streamline local administration, and provide better public services to residents. Visitors and residents should take note of these changes for future reference, especially in official documents and local navigation.

High-rise apartments and bustling alleys show the district’s urban density (Source: Internet)

2. How To Get To District 10

Thanks to its central location, District 10 is one of the most accessible areas in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're arriving from the airport, downtown, or a neighboring district, you’ll find it easy to reach this lively and well-connected part of the city.

2.1. Transportation Options

Getting to District 10 is simple, with a variety of public and private transportation options available:

• Public Bus: District 10 is served by several major bus routes that connect it with Districts 1, 5, 11, Tan Binh, and beyond. Key bus lines include routes 07, 08, 23, and 150, offering affordable and frequent service.
• Metro and Public Transit: While Metro Line 1 does not directly pass through District 10, nearby stations such as Ba Son and Ben Thanh (in District 1) offer easy connections via bus or short taxi rides. As the metro system expands in the coming years, connectivity to District 10 is expected to improve further.
• Taxi and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis are widely available and provide a comfortable and direct way to reach District 10. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Be are popular choices for both cars and motorbikes. Prices are generally affordable, and you can expect a quick pickup in most areas.
• Motorbike Taxis (Xe ôm): For solo travelers or those looking to save time in traffic, motorbike taxis are an efficient and authentic way to navigate the city. They’re available both through apps and at traditional street corners.

District 10 is not on Metro Line 1 but is easily reached via bus or taxi from nearby stations (Source: Internet)

2.2. Directions from Key Locations

Here are estimated travel times and directions to District 10 from major points in the city:

• From District 1 (City Center): Head west via Nguyen Thi Minh Khai or Cach Mang Thang Tam Street. Travel time is approximately 15–20 minutes by car or motorbike, depending on traffic. Public bus options are also available from Ben Thanh Station.
• From Tan Son Nhat International Airport: The easiest route is via Ly Thuong Kiet Street or Le Van Sy Street. The journey takes around 25–35 minutes by taxi or Grab. Buses such as Route 109 and Route 7 also connect the airport to central districts near District 10.
• From Other Districts:
  • From District 5: 5–10 minutes by motorbike or car via Nguyen Chi Thanh Street.
  • From District 11: 10–15 minutes by heading north via Ba Thang Hai Street.
  • From Binh Thanh or Phu Nhuan: 20–30 minutes via Nguyen Van Troi and Ly Thuong Kiet Street.

District 10’s compact size and central position make it convenient for both short stays and day trips. Whether you're heading to a market, temple, or food street, you'll find transportation options easy to navigate and well-suited for visitors.

Grab motorbike drivers waiting for rides near a street food alley (Source: Internet)

3. 12 Notable Places to Discover in District 10

District 10 may not be as internationally known as District 1 or District 5, but it holds its own charm with rich cultural landmarks, hidden gems, shopping hotspots, and incredible street food. Below are the must-visit locations you should include in your itinerary, divided into key experience categories.

3.1. Sightseeing Destinations

If you're into local history, culture, or simply want to soak in the authentic Saigon atmosphere, District 10 has plenty to offer.

• Museum of Vietnamese Traditional Medicine (FITO Museum): A well-curated museum showcasing traditional medical tools, herbs, and the history of Vietnamese medicine.
• Cao Dai Temple, District 10: A colorful and spiritual temple that represents a uniquely Vietnamese religion blending Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.
• Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (near District 10 border): One of the city's largest pagodas with modern architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• District 10 Cultural Center: A place for local performances, exhibitions, and community events that reflect the district’s artistic spirit.
• Heritage Apartment Buildings: Explore charming old residential buildings with French colonial influences and vibrant community life.
• Street Art and Mural Walls: Several alleys and walls in District 10 are now painted with creative murals and graffiti, offering great photo ops and insight into urban youth culture.

Cao Dai Temple's colorful facade blending Eastern and Western beliefs (Source: Internet)

3.2. Shopping Places

From traditional markets to modern malls, shopping in District 10 is both diverse and budget-friendly.

• An Dong Market: A well-known wholesale and retail market offering textiles, garments, shoes, and accessories at competitive prices.
• Kim Bien Market: Often dubbed “the chemical market,” it’s also a place to find electronics, tools, party supplies, and more. It's bustling and chaotic, yet fascinating.
• Van Hanh Mall: A modern shopping mall featuring international fashion brands, electronics, bookstores, a cinema, and a large food court. Great for families and casual shopping.
• Traditional Tailoring Street (Ly Thai To Street): Home to long-standing tailoring shops where you can get custom-made suits, áo dài, and dresses at reasonable prices.
• Local Handicraft Workshops: A few small home-run workshops in District 10 specialize in handmade incense, paper crafts, and decorative items. A great way to support local artisans.

Modern shopping and dining options at Van Hanh Mall (Source: Internet)

3.3. Food Paradise

District 10 is a street food lover’s dream. The mix of Vietnamese and Chinese influences creates a wide variety of flavors that attract locals from all over the city.

• Traditional Coffee Houses: From old-school phin drip cafés to modern Vietnamese-style coffee spots, the coffee culture here is strong and authentic.
• Local Neighborhood Markets: Morning and night markets offer endless options of noodles, grilled meats, sticky rice, soups, and desserts at affordable prices.
• Street Food Alleys: Areas around Nguyen Tri Phuong Street and Ba Hat Street are packed with stalls selling bánh xèo, phá lấu, fresh spring rolls, sweet soups, and more.
• Dim Sum Shops and Chinese Noodle Houses: Due to its proximity to District 5, District 10 features excellent Chinese-influenced food like dumplings, roasted duck, and wonton noodles.

Sizzling banh xeo and fresh rolls served from food carts at night (Source: Internet)

3.4. Community Parks and Recreation Areas

Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply want a break from the noise, District 10 offers some green escapes.

• Le Thi Rieng Park: The most famous park in District 10, featuring jogging tracks, a small amusement area, food stalls, and peaceful corners to relax under the trees.
• Small Community Parks on Su Van Hanh Street and Nguyen Chi Thanh Street: These neighborhood parks offer shaded benches, children’s playgrounds, and a slice of local daily life.

Joggers and families enjoy fresh air in Le Thi Rieng Park (Source: Internet)

District 10 is more than just a densely populated area - it's a living, breathing tapestry of Saigon's past and present. As you wander through its streets, you'll discover a side of the city that’s authentic, flavorful, and full of character. Whether you're hunting for the best street food, exploring hidden temples, or shopping for fabrics and local crafts, District 10 invites you to dive deep into local life.

Planning to explore District 10 in Ho Chi Minh City? Let Vietnam Airlines be your trusted companion on this cultural journey. Discover authentic street food, local markets, and heritage spots with ease through our travel guides. For flight bookings, baggage details, or personalized itineraries, call our hotline at 1900 1100 or connect with us via Fanpage or Zalo for expert support.