Saigon River – The silent symbol of the vibrant city

In the memory of Saigon people, “on the wharf, under the boat” is a typical idiom describing the bustling trading scene on the old Saigon wharf.  After a long time with many moving objects, witnessing many important historical moments and trying to transform to catch up with the wave of modern tourism, the Saigon River is truly the living heritage and typical cultural symbol of the city.

Origin & history 

Over time, perhaps the Saigon River is the only river of the country possessing impressive historical milestones; typically, the event in 1698, when Governor Nguyen Huu Canh served Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu’s orders to enter the South to expand his territory. After building his headquarters in Dong Do – the busiest port in the South at that time, he researched the geographical position and economic potential of the new land, and then established Gia Dinh province, marking the birth of the Saigon River later.

The length of the river flowing through Ho Chi Minh City is only 80 km with a system of interlaced canals in the inner city. However, in reality, the total length of the Saigon River is 256km, spanning many different provinces. In addition, this place is also the international trading port of Indochina more than 100 years ago, as well as the location of Ba Son shipyard – the cradle of the famous shipbuilding and repair industry in the past. 

Today, in addition to the function of economic trade, the Saigon River is also an attractive destination for 5-star international cruise ships; and at the same time bring domestic and foreign tourists many high-class river tourism services

Experience a very different Saigon by water In the community of tourists coming to Vietnam, there is a joke that “traffic jams are also Saigon’s specialty.” When you are too tired of noisy car horns and dust on asphalt roads, then spend a day cruising around Saigon on the river by waterbus. This is a new service, launched in the first months of 2018. Waterbus has many different stops, but the tour will take you to the main places of the city such as: Nguyen Hue pedestrian street area – Bach Dang wharf, Thao Dien area in District 2 and Thanh Da peninsula – the only two remaining green areas near the city center. If possible, choose the earliest train to watch the sunrise, or choose the last train to enjoy the beautiful sunset. 

Peaceful suburban oases waiting to be discovered

When the silhouettes of skyscrapers at Bach Dang wharf fade away, breathe and enjoy the rare natural air left of the peaceful oasis of Thao Dien. Here, a complex of 5-star restaurants and resorts is designed with modern architecture mixed with classic features, especially a bold French luxury villa with canoe pier waiting for visitors. The sound of the bow of the ship gliding away and the two sides of the river covered in cool green by perennial coconut trees, reminiscent of a romantic scene in the famous movie “L’amant” by writer Marguerite Duras.

For couples who want to create unforgettable moments together, specially designed tour services are waiting for you. The formal white fine dining tables, sparkling champagne glasses under the golden light and warm candles become even sweeter when watching the colorful Saigon city at night

The personality playground of the sports-loving community In the last two years, sports games on the river are very popular among young Saigonese. One of the sports that attracts players is SUP paddle boarding (a type of surfboard on the water, the paddler stands on the board and controls with a dedicated paddle). Brightly colored SHOCKS have a unique design as an irresistible invitation. Players often choose small canal areas of the Saigon River, where there are less boats to travel safely, such as Tau Hu canal (also known as Thi Nghe canal) or down the embankment of the area. Thao Dien area. For those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get up to speed quickly: this is a great activity for you to get acquainted with the dynamic and friendly young Vietnamese. Efforts to transform yourself to integrate It was once a bustling international trading port, then slowed down through the ups and downs of the country. 

Today, with abundant investment in infrastructure on both sides of the river as well as in the water tourism industry, the Saigon River is gradually reasserting its important position. The quiet period has passed, giving way to a modern Saigon on the river, worthy of a prime location to gradually develop stronger in the future