CU CHI TUNNELS & SAIGON – CHOLON EXPLORATION

• Things to Do in Vietnam

About

The Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon – Cholon Cultural Exploration tour offers a full-day journey through Vietnam’s rich history and vibrant culture. In the morning, visit the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used during the Vietnam War, where you can explore hidden passageways, wartime bunkers, and experience the resilience of the Vietnamese people. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Cholon, Saigon’s Chinatown, for an immersive cultural experience by electric buggy. Discover historic temples, visit a renowned three-generation bakery for traditional Chinese wedding cakes, explore the sacred Quan Am Pagoda, and enjoy an authentic Chinese-style coffee at a nostalgic café. With a flexible itinerary and a mix of history, architecture, and local traditions, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Ho Chi Minh City’s diverse heritage.

What’s included

Air-conditioned van/bus transportation as per itinerary (pick-up & drop-off within central District 1, except Tan Dinh and Da Kao wards).
English-speaking tour guide.
All entrance fees.
Lunch at a local restaurant.

What’s not included 

Additional meals and services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Personal expenses, travel insurance, VAT.

What to expect: The itinerary below provides a structured tour experience, but we can customize it to suit your preferences for a more flexible journey!

Morning: Stop at Cu Chi Tunnels

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City and journey towards Cu Chi, a historic area known as the “Iron Triangle” during the Vietnam War, located 70 km northwest of the city. Upon arrival, you’ll be immersed in the fascinating history of the tunnels through a short documentary, revealing how these underground networks were constructed and utilized. Explore the extensive tunnel system, where you’ll see living quarters, kitchens, field hospitals, and weapon-making workshops, along with secret trapdoors that once provided protection during the war. Enjoy a taste of boiled cassava and tea, the staple foods of the Viet Cong guerrillas, and, if you wish, take the opportunity to try your hand at real shooting (optional, at your own expense).

After the Cu Chi visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Saigon – Cholon Cultural Experience

After lunch, continue the journey with an immersive exploration of Saigon’s Chinatown (Cholon) by electric buggy, experiencing its vibrant culture through several unique stops:

📍Stop at: Nhi Phu Temple (Ong Bon Temple) – A Fujian Community Heritage Site

Nhi Phu Temple (Ong Bon Temple) is a significant heritage site for the Fujian Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City. This ancient temple is dedicated to Ong Bon, the patron deity of the Fujian people, and it plays an important role in preserving the cultural and spiritual traditions of the community. The temple is known for its intricate architecture, beautiful carvings, and serene atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and beliefs of the Fujian Chinese in Saigon. It stands as a testament to the deep-rooted cultural heritage and spiritual practices that continue to thrive in the heart of the city.

📍Stop at: Tasting Traditional Chinese Wedding Cakes

Tasting Traditional Chinese Wedding Cakes is a unique experience that allows you to indulge in a cherished culinary tradition of the Chinese community in Saigon. These cakes, often served during weddings and special celebrations, are made with a blend of fragrant ingredients and are known for their symbolic meanings of prosperity and good fortune. A visit to a renowned bakery in Cholon, where these cakes have been crafted for generations, offers an opportunity to savor their delicate flavors while learning about the rich cultural significance behind this time-honored treat.

📍Stop at: Quan Am Pagoda – A Sacred Cantonese Landmark

Quan Am Pagoda is a sacred spiritual landmark for the Cantonese community in Ho Chi Minh City. Steeped in history, this revered pagoda is dedicated to Quan Am, the Goddess of Mercy, and serves as a peaceful haven for reflection and worship. As you explore the pagoda, you’ll be captivated by its distinctive architectural beauty, featuring intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and serene surroundings. The pagoda offers visitors a chance to appreciate not only its spiritual significance but also the timeless craftsmanship that showcases the cultural richness of the Cantonese people.

📍Stop at: Authentic Chinese Coffee Shop Experience

Indulge in a cup of traditional Chinese-style coffee at a charming, old-fashioned café, where the atmosphere takes you back in time. As you savor your drink, take a moment to observe the vibrant daily life of Cholon’s residents, all from the cozy, nostalgic ambiance of this beloved local spot. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Cholon while enjoying a true taste of its culture.

🕠 17:30 – Transfer back to your hotel or the designated drop-off point. End of tour.

🚐 Complimentary Pick-Up & Drop-Off

We offer free pick-up and drop-off services for most locations within the city center, including District 1 and District 3,4. For destinations outside this area, an additional charge may apply. Please contact us at least 24 hours in advance to confirm your pick-up location. Alternatively, you can meet us at Saigon Opera House (Intersection of Lê Lợi & Đồng Khởi Street, District 1) by 6:00 PM to join the tour.

Accessibility

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps

If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: CCACC01 Mr Ben +84 383 624632

Additional information

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Free cancellation

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
• Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

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