Saigon Chinatown Bike Tour: Hidden Alleys, History & Local Treats
Description
Ready to escape the tourist crowds? This immersive half-day cycling experience takes you deep into the vibrant heart of Chợ Lớn (Saigon’s historic Chinatown), a sprawling district most travellers completely miss. We pedal at a leisurely, relaxed pace, immersed in an atmospheric maze of secret backstreets, colourful wholesale markets, local market treats and untold stories. Safety First: Our expert Lead Guide smoothly navigates with utmost assurance, so you can enjoy a completely carefree, protected ride from start to finish. What We Will Do: Hidden Alleys: Coast through vibrant steets and unexplored alleys where traditional Chinese-Vietnamese life unfolds. Cultural History: Uncover untold stories of the legendary tycoon and old shophouses, and how they shaped the modern-day Saigon. Sacred Temples: Step inside hidden, incense-filled assembly hall Pagoda. Market Treats: Stop at bustling stalls to savor authentic local snacks and refreshing herbal drinks.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Introduction / Safety Briefing / Bicycle Set Up
Xom Cui market used to receive agricultural and seafood products transported by a network of interconnected canals, with boats navigating through them. To explore the area, we will embark on a cycling journey, visiting the local community, including long-time residents, as well as a renowned garment factory. Our itinerary will also include a visit to Xom Cui market, where these goods were once traded.
Our journey will take us down the path of herbal medicine, a route deeply rooted in the Chinese community. This particular place holds great significance not only for its healing properties but also for its connection to feng shui, an important aspect for the wealthiest individual in Chinatown, whose story we will uncover along the way.
Our tour guide will take you to the beginning of the Chinese community in the South. This is an old port in Saigon, located parallel to a large and long avenue of this city.
Our itinerary includes a visit to the vibrant Cho Lon Chinese community in Saigon. During our exploration, we will have the opportunity to witness the remarkable symbol of Quach Dam's significant contributions to this community - the renowned Binh Tay Market, which is also referred to as Cho Lon. Following this, we will take a leisurely stroll through a Chinese apartment complex, allowing us to experience the remarkable transformation and development of this community from the past to the present.
During our excursion, we will have the opportunity to explore a renowned Chinese Assembly Hall. This cultural landmark holds immense significance for Vietnam, as it has greatly shaped the country's beliefs and traditions. Our knowledgeable tour guide will enlighten us about various customary beliefs, including the deities that are revered and the reasons behind their worship.
We cycle back through Saigon to the start of our meeting point
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(4)
Christian was a wonderful Guide, extremely knowledgeable and just a wonderful and kind person. He even helped us to complete our Vietnam food bucket list. Great cycling experience!
Quang was an amazing tour guide and made exploring Ho Chi Minh City by bike truly memorable. His stories and local knowledge brought the city to life and gave everything much more context. I always felt safe riding through the busy traffic, and he was friendly, patient, and happy to answer all my questions. I especially enjoyed learning about the culture around Aquarium Street. Booking the night before even led to a private tour, which was a great bonus. Highly recommend!
Absolutely recommend the Quach Dam Trails tour for those who love a bit history and adventure. Unforgettable experience for myself and my husband -- weaving through the major intersections and small alleyways of Cho Lon with anh Dung. Particularly enjoyed speaking to the locals who are keeping tradition alive. I've visited HCMC so many times, but only recently decided to learn more about this district, which still plays a big role in shaping the city's culture and economy today.
Great moment with Mr. Thi, cycling in Hcmc was easiest than expected and had very rich exchanges with the guide Mr.Thi.
Thank you Lorenz, i hope we brought you some long lasting smiles and memories. Until our next adventure ! take care. ( And don't forget us when you come back!)
