An Dong Market: The Bustling Commercial "Heart" of Saigon

As one of the most iconic trading centers in Ho Chi Minh City, An Dong Market is renowned for its rich history and diversity of goods. Whether you're a fashion lover or just exploring local culture, this market offers a vibrant glimpse into daily life in Ho Chi Minh city.

1. Overview of An Dong Market

If you're seeking an authentic local shopping experience in Ho Chi Minh City, An Dong Market in District 5 should definitely be on your radar. With decades of trading history and a dynamic atmosphere, this market blends the traditional charm of Saigon with the fast-paced rhythm of modern commerce.

• Address: 34 - 36 An Duong Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5.
• Opening hours: Daily from 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM (some food stalls operate later into the evening).

Reaching An Dong Market is quite convenient thanks to its central location in District 5. Visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options depending on their preferences and budget.

• By motorbike: The fastest and most flexible way to reach An Dong Market. Parking is available around the market, typically costing between 5,000 - 10,000 VND. However, during peak hours, finding a spot might be challenging and you’ll need to be mindful of traffic congestion.
• By taxi: Comfortable, particularly for tourists or groups. Taxis can drop you off right at the market’s entrance. The average fare from central districts like District 1 is around 60,000 VND.
• By bus: The most economical option and offers a great opportunity to enjoy the local cityscape along the way. Several bus routes stop near An Dong Market, including numbers 56, 139, 06. Fares are generally around 6.000 - 8.000 VND per trip.

A top-down view of An Dong Market's floors filled with stalls, seen from the central stairway (Source: Internet)

2. History of An Dong Market: Imprints of Time & Saigon Culture

An Dong Market first came to life in 1951 as a modest trading space serving local vendors and residents of Cho Lon, Saigon's historic Chinatown. Over the years, it transformed from a small, informal market into a major wholesale center, especially bustling before 1975 when it became a vibrant hub for the Chinese-Vietnamese (Hoa) community. Thanks to its prime location and growing popularity, the market soon earned its reputation as one of the city’s busiest commercial landmarks.

In 1991, the market underwent a significant renovation funded by the Hoa community, embracing architectural elements inspired by Chinese and Hong Kong design. This gave the building a modern commercial appearance while retaining strong cultural roots.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, An Dong flourished as both a retail and wholesale center. However, in recent years, it has seen quieter days. Many stalls are now shuttered, and foot traffic has slowed - marking a nostalgic chapter for a once-iconic Saigon marketplace.

An Dong Market was originally built in 1951 (Source: Internet)

Before 1975, it served as a major commercial hub for the Chinese community in Cholon (Source: Internet)

3. Discover Areas and Featured Items of An Dong Market

With six floors and multiple entrances, An Dong Market offers a shopping maze that caters to both wholesale traders and retail shoppers. Currently, the basement, ground floor, first and second floors operate under the traditional market model. From the ground floor upward, visitors can conveniently move between levels via modern escalators.

3.1. Basement - Jewelry, Dry Goods and Food Court

The basement is a multifunctional space featuring stalls that sell gold, silver, handmade jewelry, leather wallets (especially crocodile skin), and local dry food specialties. For jewelry or leather goods, don’t be shy to politely bargain because it can really pay off.

• Highlight items: gold and silver accessories (from 1,200,000 VND), dried squid, chili powder, coconut candy (45,000–200,000 VND), crocodile leather wallets.
• Must-visit stalls: My Ha (currency exchange), Hoang Yen Jewelry, A16 (dried foods).

A bustling food court inside An Dong Market with its menu board in Vietnamese (Source: Internet)

Jewelry stalls at the basement level displaying gold rings and silver necklaces (Source: Internet)

3.2. Ground Floor - Fabrics, Footwear and Cosmetics

This is the busiest floor, home to vendors selling fabrics, shoes, handbags, cosmetics, and electroplated items. Fabric stalls near Hung Vuong entrance are well-known for quality silk, lace, and traditional ao dai materials.

• Highlight items: Silk fabric (150,000 - 300,000VND), women’s sandals (250,000 – 400,000 VND), trendy handbags.
• Tips:

• Check the texture and inquire about the product's origin.
• Verify expiration dates and authenticity of cosmetics.
• Discounts are often offered for bulk purchases.
• Experience the service of having an Ao Dai made in just 2 - 3 hours.

Racks of modern blouses and office wear hanging neatly under fluorescent lights (Source: Internet)

An Dong Market is renowned for its high-quality fabrics ideal for making ao dai (Source: Internet)

3.3. 1st Floor - Fashion for All Ages

This level is a haven for ready-to-wear clothing, offering everything from office wear, sleepwear, street fashion to kids’ clothing. Prices typically range from 200,000 - 300,000 VND. Some stalls even showcase independent local designs with one-of-a-kind styles.

• Highlight items: Women’s blouses, casual dresses (220,000 - 350,000 VND), children’s outfits.
• Tips: Visiting during morning hours may provide better access to new arrivals and a more relaxed browsing environment..

A burst of fabric colors spills from every stall, cotton shirts, flowy dresses, and cozy loungewear stacked high in rows (Source: Internet)

A variety of ready-to-wear garments from streetwear to office outfits (Source: Internet)

3.4. 2nd Floor - Cultural Apparel and Handicrafts

This floor blends art and fashion, with a focus on traditional ao dai, swimwear, silk outerwear, and children’s fashion. You’ll also find beautiful hand-embroidered scarves and ethnic crafts perfect as souvenirs.

• Highlight items: ready-made ao dai (300,000 - 600,000 VND), silk robes, embroidered scarves.
• Tip: Prices here are usually fixed, but you can usually bargain a discount of 10 - 20%.

Colorful fabrics and ao dai neatly stacked (Source: Internet)

Rows of colorful children's clothing offered at wholesale prices, ranging from playful everyday outfits to formal wear (Source: Internet)

3.5. 3rd Floor - Handmade Decor and Fashion

Tailored for middle-aged customers and cultural enthusiasts, this floor features ethnic clothes, embroidered textiles, traditional fashion and handmade decor. If you're looking for something with a vintage or artisanal feel, this is the place.

• Highlight items: silk tops (250,000 - 400,000 VND), ethnic-style fabric, hand-stitched wallets.
• Tip: Prices tend to be consistent though modest bargaining remains acceptable.

3.6. 4th Floor - Clearance Corner and Storage

The top floor is mostly used for storage and clearance sales. Though quieter, it’s a treasure trove for those who love to hunt for discounted fashion samples, display items or vintage stock sometimes at half the price. For those with a keen eye, this floor can be a rewarding destination for finding unique or discontinued items at significantly reduced prices.

• Highlight items: old-season jackets, vintage decor, prototype handbags.

4th Floor used as a storage area with limited trading activity (Source: Internet)

The fourth floor is the highest level, serving as An Dong Market’s storage (Source: Internet)

4. Shopping and Visiting Tips From An Dong Market Vendors

4.1. Master The Art Of Bargaining

Smile gently, show genuine interest, and start at 60 - 70% of the asking price. The key is respect; a pleasant negotiation often results in not just a fair price, but a meaningful exchange. Vendors are more willing to offer discounts to kind, sincere customers who don’t push too hard.

4.2. Learn to Identify High-Quality Products

To identify high-quality silk, look for a smooth, soft texture with a natural sheen and slight irregularities. For leather, check for a supple feel, consistent color, and tight grain. Always inspect stitching and finish – quality products have neat, even stitching and no loose threads.

An Dong Market captures the spirit of Saigon’s market culture (Source: Internet)

4.3. Choosing Reputable Merchants to Buy From

To choose reputable merchants at An Dong Market, look for those with clean, organized stalls and clear pricing. Ask locals or fellow shoppers for recommendations, as word-of-mouth can guide you to trustworthy vendors. Pay attention to how the merchant handles customer service – polite and knowledgeable sellers are a good sign.

4.4. Know Unwritten Rules of Shopping

If you’re the first customer of the day, you should try to buy a little something because the locals believe it helps set a positive tone for the day.

4.5. Best Time to Visit An Dong Market

From 09:00 AM to 16:00 PM, the market reveals its most authentic rhythm. At this time, customers from all over come to choose the best items.

The market in soft morning light, less crowded but full of life (Source: Internet)

4.6. Protect Your Belongings

While An Dong is generally safe, its busy corridors are a haven for pickpockets. Please note that:

• Carry a crossbody bag, zipped tight.
• Keep wallets and phones in inner pockets.
• Avoid distractions, and never leave your bag unattended while trying on items.

4.7. Visit Nearby Attractions

• Cho Lon (Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City): Just minutes away, this historic quarter buzzes with lantern-lit alleys, herbal shops, and century-old pagodas.
• Chua Ba Thien Hau (Ba Thien Hau Pagoda): Step into a haze of incense and silence in one of Saigon’s most sacred Chinese temples.
• Cong vien Hoa Binh (Hoa Binh Park): A gentle breath of greenery where tired feet and full shopping bags find rest.

The ornate rooftop of Ba Thien Hau Pagoda adorned with ceramic dragons and historical murals, standing out against the sky (Source: Internet)

5. A Foodie’s Guide at An Dong Market

An Dong Market isn't just a shopping haven, it’s a vibrant culinary playground where you can explore everything from hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches and refreshing street-side drinks. Here are some of the standout dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Banh mi (Vietnamese Baguette): A nostalgic favorite with over 40 years of history, this dish features warm baguettes served with an array of savory toppings like pork meatballs, Vietnamese sausage, pickled vegetables, and a rich house-made sauce. The flavor is comforting and bold, just like Saigon mornings.
• Bun moc suon sun (Vietnamese Pork Ball Noodle Soup with Cartilage Ribs): This rustic noodle soup is made with clear, umami-rich pork broth, bouncy pork balls, crunchy cartilage ribs, and slices of steamed pork roll. Traditionally cooked over a wood-fired stove, the flavors are delicate yet deeply satisfying.
• Com tam chay (Vegetarian Broken Rice): A wholesome vegetarian version of Saigon’s beloved broken rice, served with plant-based pork skin, steamed egg loaf, and stir-fried vegetables. It’s light yet nourishing, perfect for a mindful lunch.
• Hu tieu nam vang (Phnom Penh-Style Noodle Soup): This Cambodian-Chinese-Vietnamese fusion dish features a clear broth with a medley of toppings like shrimp, minced pork, pork liver, and quail eggs. It’s savory, complex, and utterly addictive.
• Nuoc sam (Herbal Tea): A refreshing herbal drink brewed from la han qua (monk fruit), sugarcane, and pandan leaves. This cooling tea is both a thirst-quencher and a detox remedy, ideal for Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical climate.
• Sam Bo Luong (Mixed Herbal Sweet Soup): Traditional Vietnamese dessert made with dried longan, lotus seeds, barley, and Chinese red dates. It’s subtly sweet, cooling, and packed with nutrients, perfect for a post-meal treat.

A comforting bun moc suon sun with tender pork balls and crunchy cartilage ribs in a savory broth (Source: Internet)

A crispy baguette (bạnh mi) filled with savory pork, pickled vegetables, and a rich sauce, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal (Source: Internet)

An Dong Market stands out with its flavorful street food offerings (Source: Internet)

6. Is An Dong Market Worth Visiting? Reviews from Visitors

If you're expecting a bustling tourist hotspot filled with must-have souvenirs and street performers, An Dong may not be the place for you. Its atmosphere is quiet, many stalls are closed, and the golden days of overflowing crowds and vibrant energy have gently faded with time.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s without value. For curious souls seeking to experience a more authentic, local side of Ho Chi Minh City, away from the curated chaos of Ben Thanh or the polished modernity of shopping malls, An Dong offers something different: traces of old Saigon, hidden stories in quiet corners, and heartfelt conversations with vendors who’ve stood behind their stalls for decades.

A lively market offering a glimpse of Ho Chi Minh City with diverse goods and friendly vendors (Source: Internet)

However, An Dong Market feels quieter now, with many stalls closed, lacking the energy it once had (Source: Internet)

An Dong Market is an interesting destination if you want to explore the unique commercial culture of Ho Chi Minh City. Although it no longer maintains the bustling atmosphere of its heyday, An Dong still offers an ideal place to discover the beauty of old Saigon.

Vietnam Airlines offers a modern fleet with world-class safety and comfort, featuring aircraft like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, certified to the IOSA safety standard. As a proud SkyTeam member, we connect Ho Chi Minh City to over 1,000 destinations worldwide, making your next adventure just a flight away. Book now to experience Vietnam’s heart and beyond with world-class comfort and seamless service.