In the heart of the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, there is a peaceful and tranquil sanctuary: Tao Dan Park. Spanning 10 hectares and home to over 1,000 lush trees, Tao Dan Park is often referred to as the city’s ” green lung, ” providing freshness and well-being amid the oppressive urban heat. This place is more than just a leisure space, it is a silent witness to the history, culture, and daily life of the people of Ho Chi Minh City. In addition, Tao Dan Park is also the regular venue for trade fairs and exhibitions. It is also a gastronomic hub, promising a range of memorable culinary experiences.
General information about Tao Dan Park
Location
Tao Dan Park is located on Truong Dinh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, Distric 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Its central location makes it a favorite spot for locals and tourists for a green space to relax in the heart of the bustling city.
Opening hours
This park is open from 7 am to 10 pm every day.
Entrance fees
It’s completely free.
How to get to Tao Dan Park?
To get to Tao Dan Park, you can choose to take the means of transportation according to your preferences. However, to save time and avoid getting lost, it is better to use public transportation such as the bus. The buses that pass by Tao Dan Park are as follows:
- Bus line no. 05: Chợ Lớn – Biên Hòa Bus station
- Bus line no. 06: Chợ lớn Bus station – University of Agriculture
- Bus line no. 13: Park 23/9 – Củ Chi Bus Station
- Bus line no. 14: East Bus Station – 3 tháng 2 – West Bus Station
- Bus line no. 150: Chợ Lớn Bus Station – Carrefour Tân Vận
If you take a motorbike or car, you can park it in the nearby parking lots for around 10,000 to 20,000 VND/hour.
History of Tao Dan Park
Tao Dan Park has witnessed a rich history spanning centuries, particularly the French colonial rule over Saigon from 1859 to 1860, when Saigon began construction. Previously, this park was an integral part of the garden of the Palace of the Governor General of Indochina, now transformed into the Reunification Palace. In 1869, in an effort to separate this garden from the Palace, the French created a Miss Clavell Street, now known as Huyền Trân Công Chúa Street. They named it the City Garden or Maurice Long Park. However, locals often referred to it as Vườn Ông Thượng, in homage to Đức Thượng Công Lê Văn Duyệt who had established an ornamental garden there, or even Vườn Bồ Rô, an approximately phonetic transcription of the term “courtyard”.
Overtime, various cultural, sports, and educational infrastructure emerged in Saigon to benefit its people, such as the Music Association in 1896, the Tam Điểm Association in 1897, the Saigon Sports Club in 1902, and the Youth Institute in 1926.
After 1954, following the Geneva Accords signed by the French and their subsequent withdrawal from Indochina, the Governor General’s Palace was transformed into the Reunification Palace. The garden, meanwhile, was renamed Vườn Tao Đàn. Its adjacent streets were renamed accordingly: Huyền Trân Công Chúa, Hồng Thập Tự, Lê Văn Duyệt and Nguyễn Du.
It is also worth noting the existence of a primary school named Tao Dan, which was active from 1950 to 1976. In 1975, a children’s playground was built in Tao Dan Park, renamed Tao Dan Cultural Park. Today, the latter remains the city’s central green space, known for its lush vegetation and its many events, particularly during festivities and the New Year. In 1992, a memorial in honor of the Hung Kings was erected, then restored in 2011.
The morning sunlight shines through the canopy of leaves
Best Activities in Tao Dan Park
Stroll through Tao Dan Park
As soon as you pass through the entrance of Tao Dan Park, the constant noise on the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City seems to disappear. We were immediately surrounded by the melodious songs of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves caressed by the breeze.
On both sides of the main lane are tall and mature trees extending in front of us. Their dense leaves provide a popular shade and shelter from the scorching heat of the day. The sunlight seeps through the branches, forming sparkling patterns on the paved floor, providing a bright dance and inviting people to contemplate.
Continue walking; this is a small pond where water lilies float calmly. Colorful carp slide under the water’s surface, forming small waves. The reflection of trees on the water’s surface, slightly distorted by the movement of fish, adds a dreamy dimension to the scene.
As we approach the park’s center, the sweet scent of flowers reaches us. Vibrant bougainvillea, frangipani, and other tropical flowers form a kaleidoscope of colors. Evert path seems to lead to a discovery: a hidden sculpture, a secluded bench under a tree, or a secret clearing. Tao Dan Park is not just a place to relax; it is a celebration of nature, culture, and community. Tao Dan Park provides a refreshing respite from the bustling city life.
A woman meditates on the bench at Tao Dan Park
Organize the perfect picnic
Organizing a picnic in a peaceful, picturesque environment like Tao Dan Park is a rich experience. In our busy lives, sitting down and sharing outdoor dining with friends or family is a rare and precious opportunity. This is a time when a phone and screen can be placed aside for better conversation and companionship with others. Unlike dining in restaurants, picnics give you complete freedom in terms of menu, decor, and activities. This is an opportunity to fully express your creativity, whether it’s cooking your own food, selecting vibrant tablecloths, or organizing engaging activities.
In short, having a picnic in Tao Dan Park is an excellent opportunity to observe local life, interact with locals, and learn about Vietnamese culture and traditions.
Go on picnic in Tao Dan Park
Visit the memorial dedicated to the Hung Kings
When you enter the Hung Kings Memorial Hall, you are immediately transported to another world, far from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh’s urban life. The memorial nestled in the heart of Tao Dan Park is a tribute to Vietnam’s legendary founders, a source of inspiration and pride for many Vietnamese.
The memorial’s architecture is the first thing that strikes you: a harmonious blend of traditional and modern motifs. The detailed carvings, curved roofs, and majestic dragons guarding the entrance are reminiscent of the imperial palaces of yesteryear.
When you enter, the birds’ songs and the gentle whisper of the fountain water welcome you. The air is filled with the aroma of incense, mixed with the fragrance of surrounding flowers. The flickering flames of candles gently illuminated the altar, where color offerings – fruits, and carefully prepared dishes.
Believers of all ages come here to pay their respects, some wearing traditional costumes. The older people told the story of Hung Kings, thus passing on their inheritance to the younger generation. At the same time, the children listened in surprise, their eyes filled with curiosity.
Strolling through the memorial hall, you can feel the weight of history and the deep respect for these ancestral figures. The explanatory group and local tour guides enriched the tourism with anecdotes and historical facts, making the experience both educational and spiritual.
Outside, the lush gardens surrounding the memorial provide a peaceful place for reflection. Sitting on a bench under the shade of a century-old tree, gazing at the memorial hall, is itself a meditative experience.
In short, visiting the Hung Kings Memorial Hall is not just a sightseeing trip. This is an opportunity to delve into the core of Vietnamese identity, connect with the rich past, and experience the eternal spirit of a country.
Hung Kings in Tao Dan Park
Explore the ancient mausoleum of the Lam Family
Nestled in the heart of Tao Dan Park, the former family mausoleum stands as a fragment of history enveloped by the modernity of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a silent setting that tells the stories of past generations, amidst an oasis of greenery.
According to legend, this mausoleum was built in 1895, offering a final resting place to Mr. Lam Tam Lang and Mrs. Mai Thi Xa. The main attraction of these mausoleums lies in their distinctive design, characterized by the windscreens and the meticulous finishing of the upper and lower parts of the tombs.
Each of the two tombs has architectural elements such as a windscreen at the main entrance, another behind the entrance, and walls that completely encircle the tomb. The privacy preserved by the design of the mausoleum arouses particular interest among visitors who discover this historical work.
Mausoleum of the Lam Family in Tao Dan Park
Immerse yourself in the Tao Dan Spring Flower Festival
The Tao Dan Spring Flower Festival is a must-see experience for those in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet, the Lunar New Year. It is not just an event, but an immersion in a centuries-old tradition that combines natural beauty, culture, and festivity. The vibrant hues of blossoming flowers are everywhere – from the soft pink of peach trees to the bright yellow of apricot trees, symbols of prosperity and happiness for the new year.
Plant lovers will be amazed by the displays of bonsai, miniature trees that are the result of incredible dedication and patience. These living works of art embody the harmony between man and nature.
Besides the floral wonders, the festival is also a stage for various forms of traditional arts. You can watch lion or dragon dance performances, or listen to traditional melodies played on ancient instruments.
The park is crowded with family, friends, and tourists, all of whom come to celebrate the New Year. The atmosphere is joyful, with children laughing while playing traditional games and adults exchanging happy wishes.
Immersing yourself in the Tao Dan Flower Festival is to embrace the essence of Tet and be surrounded by its magic, colors, and traditions. This is an annual event not to be missed, where you can experience the warmth and enthusiasm of the Vietnamese New Year.
Tao Dan Spring Flower Festival
Discover Tao Dan Bird Coffee
If you arrive early in the morning, well before the heat of the day sets, you will be greeted by a soothing melody of birdsong. Local bird lovers bring their cages containing precious songbirds and hang them from the branches of trees. In other words, this is a way for birds to “communicate” with each other, improving their mood and encouraging them to sing more.
The bird café is not so much about coffee itself as about the listening experience. Visitors can sit, have a traditional Vietnamese tea or coffee, and relax while listening to the birds’ harmonious melodies. It provides a genuine refuge from the hectic pace of the city.
The place is a gathering place for local bird enthusiasts. It is an opportunity to meet locals, talk with them about their birds, and understand their passion. Locals are generally proud of their birds and willing to share stories or interesting facts about their feathered companions.
Tao Dan Bird Coffee
Best Gastronomy Around Tao Dan Park
Rice Field Crab Hotpot
Rice field carb fondue hotpot evokes the rice paddies’ richness and local ingredients’ bounty. Upon first glance, the intense flavor of rice field crabs is reflected in the deep orange-red broth. These small creatures, native to the rice paddies of Vietnam, are known for their delicate flesh and distinctive taste, which are different from sea crabs.
The broth is made from the crabs’ shell and meat, usually mashed to extract all the juice and flavor. The result is a thick broth, sometimes seasoned with tomatoes, tofu, mushrooms, and other vegetables. The seasoning, often made with nuoc mam (fish sauce), chili peppers, garlic, and shallots, gives the broth an irresistible umami flavor.
When eaten, hotpot is often accompanied by fine rice vermicelli and fresh herbs. The blend of hot broth, tender crab meat, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a mouth-explosion of flavors. It is a dish that evokes not only the Vietnamese terroir but also conviviality and sharing, as it is common to enjoy it with family or friends, each person dipping into the common pot to serve themselves.
Rice Field Crab Hotpot
Traditional Vietnamese Meals
Near Tao Dan Park, there are some restaurants famous for traditional Vietnamese cuisine. When it comes to Vietnam, we cannot ignore rice – the soul of every traditional family meal. Tracing the history of Vietnamese cuisine, the traditional cooking style of rice always includes three basic elements: soup, saltiness, and boiling. Each region has its own special dishes, but throughout the country, you can find sticky rice bowls, green vegetable plates, cooked meat dishes, fried chicken rolls or caramel fish pots, and sweet and sour fish soup, which are the soul of family meals.
Traditional Vietnamese Meals
Banh Beo
Originating from central Vietnam, particularly the Hue region, Banh Beo is a small steamed rice cake, often served on small plates or in bowls. Its smooth, gelatinous texture contrasts deliciously with its crunchy filling, usually made with crumbled shrimp, spring onions, sesame seeds, and sometimes crispy pork livers.
As you wander the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, it’s not uncommon to come across a street vendor or small stall dedicated to this delicacy. Each bite is a culinary journey: the sweetness of the rice cake merges with the saltiness of the shrimp, while the crispiness adds an extra dimension to the taste experience.
It is ideal to taste Banh Beo with a specially prepared nuoc mam sauce, slightly sweet and spicy, and garnished with garlic for an explosion of flavors.
If you’re visiting Tao Dan Park, taking time to savor a Banh Beo is more than just a culinary experience. Order a plate of Banh Beo, grab a small spoon, and prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and richness of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s about soaking up a piece of Vietnamese history and culture, one bite at a time.
Banh Beo
Best Attractions Near Tao Dan Park
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, officially called the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. This place is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a silent witness to the complex history of the city and the country. Visiting this basilica offers a unique perspective on the fusion of cultures and eras that characterizes Ho Chi Minh City.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Saigon Opera House
The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theatre, is an architectural masterpiece nestled in the very center of the metropolis. This remarkable building exemplifies Vietnam’s powerful French colonial past and is a major beacon in Saigon’s cultural landscape.
Saigon Opera House
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting this vibrant city. From historic buildings to captivating music performances and even delicious street food, it offers a comprehensive experience of Vietnamese culture. Whether you want to immerse yourself in history, shop, taste local cuisine, or just walk around and take photos, Nguyen Hue Walking Street has something for everyone.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Tao Dan Park is not just a green space in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a mosaic of history, culture, and tranquility that contrasts pleasantly with the hectic pace of the city that surrounds it. Whether you want to delve into Vietnam’s history, admire ancient mausoleums, participate in cultural events or simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this park offers a precious escape. If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh City, a stroll through Tao Dan Park is more than just an outing, it is an experience that cannot be missed. With each visit, you will discover a new facet of this jewel, reflecting the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Vietnam. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need further information about visiting Ho Chi Minh City or Vietnam!
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