The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism has announced that the city’s hall will be open to visitors on September 1 and 2, in honor of National Day (September 2). In addition, the hall will be open to the public on select weekends throughout September to December. Visitors will have an opportunity to spend 60 minutes in the hall, learning about its history and exploring various rooms such as the international reception room and meeting room. To secure entrance, visitors must register in advance and arrive at the gate 15 minutes prior to their scheduled tour time. Valid passports or identification cards must be presented for entry.
There are certain restrictions in place for visitors. Luggage, backpacks, handbags, cameras, video recorders, weapons, flammable substances, toxins, and unlawful drugs are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, recording, filming, and live-streaming are not allowed in restricted areas of the hall. Smoking is prohibited, and guests must adhere to a dress code which prohibits shorts, shirts without sleeves, and sandals.
The hall, designed by French architect Femand Gardes, was constructed in 1898 and completed in 1909. It was formerly known as Dinh Xa Tay during the French colonial era and later as Saigon City Hall until 1975. Since then, it has served as the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and People’s Council’s workplace. Recognized as a national architectural relic site by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2020, the hall is located at 86 Le Thanh Ton Street in District 1, offering a stunning view of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street and the Saigon River.
The hall previously opened its doors to the public on April 30 and May 1, attracting 1,500 Vietnamese and international visitors. The tourism department plans to introduce unique tourism products and services in the future to cater to both local and international travelers.
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Visitors will be allowed to spend 60 minutes visiting the Ho Chi Minh City Hall on the last weekend of each month until late 2023. Photo: Huu Hanh / Tuoi Tre