Buu Long Temple (Thiền viện Bửu Long) stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most striking Buddhist structures, located at 81 Nguyen Xieng, Long Binh Ward, District 9. The temple complex rises majestically from the landscape, combining traditional Vietnamese architecture with distinct Thai and Burmese influences. It is a bit away from central Saigon but worth the effort. Constructed in 1942 by Master Thich…
Saigon has a new skyscraper to guide you around the city. Appropriately named Landmark it cast an imposing figure no matter where you are in the city. Along with Bitexco it is a great reference for navigation while walking or riding. Standing at 461.5 meters, this 81-story skyscraper is Vietnam’s tallest building, featuring a distinct architectural design resembling bamboo shoots reaching skyward. The exterior showcases…
The Ho Thi Ky Flower Market in Saigon flower market is definitely worth a trip. Unlike the Hanoi flower market which is a dedicated space just for the flower vendors, this one is in a mixed-use residential neighborhood. Though it is busiest in the early morning, there is still a lot going on in the late after around blue hour. After shooting the market you…
The Bitexco building is one of the most iconic symbols of Saigon and it’s rapid post-war transformation. The spotlight is now shared somewhat with the taller Landmark 81 building, but for many Bitexco will always be the symbol of modern Saigon. Bitexco Financial Tower 2 Hai Trieu Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Standing at 262 meters (861 feet), the Bitexco Financial Tower was…
You’ll find Ho Chi Minh City‘s lively street photography scenes spread across distinct cultural pockets, each with its own visual narrative. Start in Chinatown (Cho Lon), where narrow streets and centuries-old architecture create natural frames for your shots, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. Japan Town‘s neon-lit alleys and District 10’s authentic local life offer striking contrasts for your lens.…
Established in 1864, the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens as Vietnam‘s largest and oldest zoo, covering over 20 hectares in central Ho Chi Minh City. It was founded during the French colonial period and combines animals with historical architecture and mature botanical gardens. The exhibits are organized into distinct zones, including the big cat complex, primate area, reptile house, and aviary. Like many zoos it…
Some lesser known photography spots.
A really interesting building with everything an urban archeologist could ask for. Complete with grit, graffiti, old spiral staircase and even an all dressed up speakeasy bar — SnuffBox. It’s a good place to go during the mid-day harsh light as you are indoors but may get some nice light streaming into the windows. Definitely bring a fast wide or super-wide angle lens if you…
Tan Dinh, “The Pink Church” is a fixture for the Instagram crowd. The hop-on/hop-off bus will stop here. Tan Dinh Church Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Hours: Daily 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Mass times vary Standing prominently in District 3, Tan Dinh Church is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most distinctive religious buildings,…
Musulman Mosque 101 Nguyen Van Cu Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City This is a bit of a surprise for many to find in the heart of Saigon. In District 1 near the Sheraton hotel it has many quiet and unique spots to photograph. They open very early and a nice stop before breakfast but be respectful of worshipers. Originally constructed in 1935, this…