1. Overview of District 4 Ho Chi Minh City

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, District 4 is a compact yet vibrant urban area that blends rich history with modern-day charm. Formerly a swamp and dockland during French colonial times, District 4 Ho Chi Minh has transformed into a bustling neighborhood steeped in working-class culture and Southern Vietnamese identity.

Spanning just over 4 square kilometers and home to more than 180,000 residents, it’s one of the smallest districts but densely populated. It shares borders with District 1, District 7, and District 8, connected by key bridges and canals that once gave it a reputation for being isolated.

District 4 is uniquely bounded by District 1 to the north, District 7 to the south, and District 2 and District 8 across the surrounding rivers and canals

Divided into 13 wards, District 4 Saigon is known for its maze of alleys, vibrant street life, and community-oriented lifestyle.

There are 10 Wards in District 4

As a central urban district, it plays a crucial role in the city’s economic and cultural dynamics. The area is celebrated for its gritty authenticity, historical relevance, and unique position between tradition and progress. Notably, District 4 Vietnam is a street food haven, often dubbed the “snack paradise” where locals and visitors alike flock to enjoy affordable, flavorful Southern dishes that reflect the true soul of the city.

Important notice: Starting from July 1, 2025, District 4 of Ho Chi Minh City has been officially dissolved. Its territory has been re-divided into different wards in accordance with the 2025 administrative reform. District 4 now only consists of 3 wards: Khanh Hoi ward, Vinh Hoi ward and Xom Chieu ward. However, this guide still uses the term “District 4” to refer to the territory of the old District 4.

2. How To Get Around District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Getting around District 4 Ho Chi Minh City is convenient thanks to its central location and various transport options:

• Bus routes: Public bus routes such as 34 and 102 run through District 4, connecting it to popular destinations like District 1, District 7, and Ben Thanh Market.
• Motorbikes: Ideal for navigating the district’s narrow alleys and immersing yourself in its vibrant street scenes.
• Taxis: A comfortable and accessible option, perfect for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
• Ride-hailing apps: Services like Grab are widely used and offer a convenient, reliable alternative to traditional taxis.
• Bicycles: Great for short distances and for those who want to explore at a leisurely pace.
• On foot: Walking allows you to experience the authentic local atmosphere up close and discover hidden corners that vehicles might miss.

Directions from major hubs in Ho Chi Minh City to District 4:

• From Mien Dong Bus Station, you can travel south to District 4 via Dien Bien Phu Street and Nguyen Tat Thanh Street.
• From Mien Tay Bus Station, head east along Vo Van Kiet Boulevard for a direct route.
• From Tan Son Nhat Airport, it takes about 30 - 40 minutes by car to reach District 4, using Nguyen Van Troi Street and Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street.
• If you're coming from Districts 1, 7, or Binh Thanh, access is quick and convenient via major roads and bridges such as Calmette Bridge, Ong Lanh Bridge, or Tan Thuan Bridge.

3. 7 Places to Visit in District 4 Ho Chi Minh City

3.1. Nha Rong Wharf

• Address: 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM
• Ticket fee: Free for Vietnamese; VND 25.000 (USD 1) for foreigners

Located in the District 4 area, Nha Rong Wharf is a historic site where President Ho Chi Minh began his journey abroad in 1911. Today, it serves as the Ho Chi Minh Museum, featuring exhibits, photographs, and documents about his life and revolutionary activities. Visitors can walk along the scenic Saigon River, admire French colonial architecture, and explore meaningful displays about Vietnam’s fight for independence. This iconic landmark is a perfect blend of culture, history, and national pride. A visit to Nha Rong Wharf offers a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past and is a must-see for anyone exploring District 4.

Nha Rong Wharf is a place of special significance in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Internet)

3.2. House No. 236 - Cultural Center District 4

• Address: 236 Ben Van Don Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Closed on Sundays
• Ticket fee: Free

House No. 236 is a revolutionary relic site where President Ho Chi Minh once lived and worked during the early years of Vietnam’s independence movement. This modest house preserves important historical documents, photographs, and memorabilia that offer a rare glimpse into the underground resistance during French colonial rule. A visit here helps visitors understand the early struggles of Vietnam’s revolutionaries and provides meaningful insight into the country’s fight for freedom. District 4. Today, House No. 236 is known as District 4 Cultural and Sports Center.

3.3. Khanh Hoi Communal House

• Address: 71 - 73 Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Ticket fee: Free

Khanh Hoi Communal House is one of the oldest spiritual sites in the District 4 area, dating back to the 19th century. Built in traditional Vietnamese architectural style, the communal house is dedicated to local guardian spirits and deities, reflecting the cultural beliefs of Southern Vietnamese communities.

The site features ornate wood carvings, incense-filled altars, and a tranquil courtyard. Visitors often come to pray for peace, prosperity, and protection. Cultural events and festivals are also celebrated here during the lunar year.

Khanh Hoi Communal House is a 19th-century spiritual landmark in District 4 (Source: Internet)

3.4. Vinh Hoi Communal House

• Address: 240 Ben Van Don, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Ticket fee: Free

Vinh Hoi Communal House is one of the oldest cultural landmarks in the District 4 area, reflecting the spiritual and communal life of Southern Vietnamese people. Built during the early 19th century, it is dedicated to local deities and serves as a venue for annual festivals and traditional ceremonies. Visitors can explore the peaceful courtyard and observe worship rituals that still take place today.

Vinh Hoi Communal House offers a meaningful glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s cultural roots (Source: Internet)

3.5. Vinh Khanh Food Street

• Address: Vinh Khanh Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Located in the heart of the District 4 area, Vinh Khanh Food Street is a bustling culinary hotspot, famous among locals and tourists for its wide variety of affordable and delicious street food.

From grilled scallops, snails, and seafood hotpots to Vietnamese pancakes and sweet desserts, the street comes alive at night with sizzling grills and the aroma of local flavors. Popular food stalls line both sides of the road, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for walking, tasting, and soaking in the local vibe.

Vinh Khanh street is a must-visit destination for food lovers looking to experience Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Internet)

3.6. Khanh Hoi Park

• Address: 229 Street No 48, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours
• Ticket fee: Free

Khanh Hoi Park is a peaceful green space ideal for morning walks, exercise, and family outings. Surrounded by shady trees and paved paths, the park offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With views of the Saigon River and nearby high-rises, it’s also a favorite spot for photography and relaxing at sunset.

Khanh Hoi Park offers a green spots for the locals to unwind (Source: Internet)

3.7. Xom Chieu Market

Address: Dinh Le, Ward 14, District 4

Xom Chieu Market is a bustling local market that turns into a street food paradise in the evening. Here, you can sample iconic dishes like banh trang nuong (Vietnamese pizza), bot chien (fried rice flour cakes), and che (Vietnamese sweet soup).

Don’t miss the grilled banana wrapped in sticky rice or the stall selling savory banh cuon. It’s an ideal place to enjoy authentic flavors at affordable prices, just like a true Saigonese.

Xom Chieu Market offers vibrant, affordable street food (Source: Internet)

District 4 Ho Chi Minh City is a unique blend of history, culture, and local charm. Known for its working-class roots and riverside location, the District 4 area offers visitors a rich experience through landmarks like Nha Rong Wharf, vibrant markets, and spiritual sites. Easy to explore with the help of a District 4 map. Whether you're a history lover or a foodie, District 4 captures the authentic spirit of Saigon and is a must-visit for any traveler.

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