In 1975, a North Vietnamese Army tank struck through the wrought-iron gates of what was then the symbol of the South Vietnamese government, signifying the end of the Vietnam War. Much like that tank, now enshrined by the site's entrance, the Independence Palace is practically frozen in time. Once the workplace and abode of French Governor Cochin-China, this onetime presidential home is where history lingers everywhere, from across the basement and the former command center to the rooftop terrace and its accompanying helipad. Set against a well-preserved backdrop, this palatial edifice is like a canopy of immortal history which is illustrated with the help of opulent rooms laden with vintage furniture, telecommunications equipment and a certain sense of '60s kitsch along the way. Featuring a tapestry of tunnels and other war memorabilia including two original tanks used in the war, the palace is ornamented with lush, vibrant gardens which enliven its otherwise aged persona. Insightful strands from the video presentation of Vietnamese history pervade the palace's crevices which are steeped in profound, long-standing antiquity.
This museum houses an eclectic collection of many of Ho Chi Minh's possessions, including the Uncle's sandals and his beloved Zenith radio (ironically made in the United States). Most of the signs are in Vietnamese. The museum is accessible by ferry from the pier at the end of Ham Nghi Avenue or by crossing the bridge on Nguyen Tat Thanh Street. PAy a visit to this museum to trace the story of the legendary Vietnamese revolutionary and later, the Prime Minister.
Delve into the history and traditions of Vietnam at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. Built in 1885, the neoclassical building has served as the residence of a number of notable political figures, including President Diem who used the bunkers and tunnels hidden beneath the museum as a refuge before escaping to Cha Tam Church. The museum itself is an architectural gem, and worth a visit for this reason alone. Archaeological remains, art and artifacts illustrate the story of Vietnam across two floors, with much emphasis on the country's struggle for independence, while the historic artifacts spread across the garden are sure to be of special interest to those with a penchant for military history. A traditional museum in every way, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum is a fine place to contemplate the country's storied past.
The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens are worth a visit especially if you are touring Ho Chi Minh with your little ones. This verdant space is home to varied plant and animal life. It is a great spot to educate children about nature and wildlife. Over 120 species of animals call the Botanical Gardens & Zoo their home. These include elephants, bears, orangutans, tigers, lions, giraffes, porcupines and many more. The botanical garden conserves over 30 cacti species in addition to the bonsai. Flowering plants and towering trees add to your visual treat throughout the excursion.
Located in the business hub of Ho Chi Minh, Zero Station is an immensely popular art gallery that is affiliated with some of Asia's most gifted artists and creative minds. Exhibits include a wide range of contemporary artworks such as portraits, landscapes, artifacts, and graffiti. The gallery regularly hosts art exhibitions within its premises, wherein local and international artists showcase their work while indulging in open discussions with guests, bridging the gap between the artists and their audiences.
Home to over a 100 larger than life, three-dimensional paintings, Artinus is a museum that is quite unlike any other. The museum showcases the artwork of over 15 contemporary artists who use shadows, color and perspective to create 3D paintings that will leave you speechless with wonder and awe. Painted directly onto the walls, ceiling and floor, these paintings are excellent examples of optical illusion art that use the principles of perspective to create a false sense of depth and distance. Unlike most museums that discourage visitors from getting too close to the art, Artinus invites visitors to get really close and literally become a part of the artwork. Do not forget to bring your camera along, for this place is a treasure trove for shutterbugs and social media mavericks. Ask the friendly docents and they will help you set up the perfect shot to capture these optical illusions on film with you at heart of each scene.
Located in the business hub of Ho Chi Minh, Zero Station is an immensely popular art gallery that is affiliated with some of Asia's most gifted artists and creative minds. Exhibits include a wide range of contemporary artworks such as portraits, landscapes, artifacts, and graffiti. The gallery regularly hosts art exhibitions within its premises, wherein local and international artists showcase their work while indulging in open discussions with guests, bridging the gap between the artists and their audiences.
Home to over a 100 larger than life, three-dimensional paintings, Artinus is a museum that is quite unlike any other. The museum showcases the artwork of over 15 contemporary artists who use shadows, color and perspective to create 3D paintings that will leave you speechless with wonder and awe. Painted directly onto the walls, ceiling and floor, these paintings are excellent examples of optical illusion art that use the principles of perspective to create a false sense of depth and distance. Unlike most museums that discourage visitors from getting too close to the art, Artinus invites visitors to get really close and literally become a part of the artwork. Do not forget to bring your camera along, for this place is a treasure trove for shutterbugs and social media mavericks. Ask the friendly docents and they will help you set up the perfect shot to capture these optical illusions on film with you at heart of each scene.
Nestled in the heart of the city's business district, this soaring cosmopolitan tower embodies the increasingly-urbane fervor of the city. At around 178 meters (584 feet), the Bitexco Financial Tower's glass-enclosed observation deck offers one of Ho Chi Minh City's most dramatic panoramas. A labor of love of the illustrious architect Carlos Zapata, this towering edifice has been a proud recipient of the 'Excellence in Structural Engineering’ award conferred by NCSEA (National Council of Structural Engineers Associations) in 2011. Having found its due place on the list of the world's most iconic skyscrapers, this lotus-shaped work of art houses the Sky Deck, which proffers breathtaking views of some of the city's most-coveted landmarks, along with a stretch of the Saigon River. A considerable amount of floors of this tower have been occupied by restaurants and shopping outlets, whereas the famed Sky Deck also plays host to art exhibitions on some days.
With six floors of exhibits, the Museum of Vietnamese Traditional Medicine, or FITO, is a must visit for Ho Chi Minh City. Find yourself walking through the centuries as you learn about the Vietnamese and Chinese medicine used throughout history. The many exhibits offer plaques in both English and Vietnamese. Guided tours are available and are a great to gain a deeper understanding of ancient medicines and herbs once used by healers.
Museum of Vietnam's History is housed in a lovely building dating back to 1926. It is also sometimes refered to as the History Museum. Spanning across 15 rooms, it covers Vietnam's history through ancient times till the mid 20th Century. Exhibits include items from the prehistoric period to the Cambodian stone sculptures of the medieval times, intricate Cham sculptures to artifacts of the Nguyen dynasty and of other ruling dynasties.
Probably the most remarkable site of the Fine Arts Museum is the colonial French building that houses 3 floors of works. The art works, albeit some less well-preserved, represent some pieces of Vietnam's art history. The first floor is changing exhibits of both local and international artists; the second floor is the permanent collection of sketches, paintings and statues. The third floor contains older works from as far back as the 1st century and up to the early 20th century. The basement gallery can be accessed through the courtyard in the center of the building where visitors can buy good art work of more contemporary artists for affordable prices.