Ho Chi Minh

Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market is an iconic structure of Ho Chi Minh City. Its character, and location, has morphed and changed through Saigon’s historic ups and downs. Follow us through each merchandise gate to things you can buy, useful shopping tips, and handy Vietnamese phrases.
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Hanoi

One Pillar Pagoda: A Buddhist Lotus Pedestal in Hanoi

One Pillar Pagoda, otherwise known as the Lotus Pedestal at Dien Huu Pagoda, dates to the second Ly King. Discover why it’s shaped like a lotus and built in a pond dedicated to Guan Yin. A visit to this tranquil pagoda is also a chance to see a Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya.
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Hanoi

Hanoi Old Quarter: A Charming Historian of Trades

Hanoi Old Quarter used to be the urban hub and trade center of the feudal capital before Hanoi. Stroll around architectural charms while shopping at stores or in markets. There are specialty streets for beer, coffee, jewelry, or stop by the popular water puppet theatre.
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Hanoi

West Lake: Tranquility Amid Temples and Pagodas

West Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi with a most tranquil atmosphere. While strolling around, visit a mythical princess at Tay Ho Temple, or the God of the North Star at Quan Thanh Temple. But first, read about the fox and buffalo and other names for the lake.
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Hanoi

Tran Quoc Pagoda: The Oldest Sacred Ground in Hanoi

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist site in Hanoi dating to 541 CE. It maintains the principles of Buddhist architecture despite many restorations. The famed Lotus Tower makes it one of the most picturesque pagodas in the world. Its Banyan Tree was gifted from Bodh Gaya.
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