Today, Vietnam Adventure will take a closer look at Ho Thi Ky flower market. It was established in 1987 and is famous as one of the largest flower markets in Saigon (former name of Ho Chi Minh City). Here, both residents and tourists can enjoy the beauty of hundreds of different flowers, from popular traditional varieties to unique types.

Where Is Ho Thi Ky Night Market?

Considered “miniature Da Lat”, Ho Thi Ky night market is home to many types of fresh flowers with a variety of colors, designs and fragrances. So Ho Thi Ky has become a popular tourist attraction for domestic and foreign flower lovers.

Hundreds of flowers blooming at Ho Thi Ky market
Hundreds of flowers blooming at Ho Thi Ky market

Ho Thi Ky night market is located at 52 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10, Saigon. It’s open 24/24, but is the most crowded from midnight to 3. am, as its name suggests. You can go to go the night market is by tax, from the city center (District 1), go south about 3 to 4 km to District 10.

This wholesale market sells flowers at very affordable prices, along with a full range of flower arranging tools, supplies, and accessories. The market becomes especially crowded and lively on occasions like Valentine’s Day (February 14), International Women’s Day (March 8), Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20), and Lunar New Year.

What’s Special About Ho Thi Ky Night Market?

As one of the largest flower markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Thi Ky Market is perfect for finding fresh flowers at affordable prices and experiencing the vibrant local flower culture. And incidentally, there is something here for foodies, more or less.

A variety of fresh fragrant flowers 

At this flower paradise, you will enjoy the charming beauty of many flower types and dispel stress by immersing yourself in their seductive fragrance. This luxurious feeling is typically something you can only experience in Da Lat, the flower city of Vietnam.

Ho Thi Ky night market opening hours are very flexible
Ho Thi Ky night market opening hours are very flexible

The flowers here mostly come from Hanoi, Da Lat, and the Mekong Delta region. Popular varieties include roses, dahlias, chrysanthemums, tulips, gerberas, lucky flowers, cyclamens, sunflowers, baby’s breath,…. Prices start at just 3,000 to 5,000 VND per flower, very affordable.

If you don’t need to buy flowers, that’s fine. Visiting to take photos and soak in the peaceful, romantic atmosphere isn’t a bad idea at all!

Plenty Of Street Foods

The area around the market is also a convergence of dozens of street food stalls. After the flower viewing session, reward yourself with some of the following must-try dishes:

  • Thai vermicelli: This dish is the Vietnamese version of tom yum (Thai soup). Thai vermicelli is made with a rich broth stewed from bones and meat, giving it a unique sweet and sour flavor. Toppings include beef, shrimp and squid, while vegetables typically include mushrooms, water spinach, and bean sprouts.
  • Crab soup: Also a popular street food here, this hearty soup includes boiled quail eggs, mushrooms, and crab, topped with coriander and green onions. It’s the perfect way to end your midnight stroll around the market since the hot broth will warm you up and satisfy you in the cool weather.
  • Grilled skewered meat: Grilled skewered meat, known as “thịt nướng,” is renowned for its irresistible smoky and char-grilled aroma. Pork or chicken, sliced thin or cut into small chunks and then cooked to perfection over an open flame. 
  • Banh xeo: It is a popular Vietnamese dish, often referred to as Vietnamese pancakes or sizzling crepes. The name “bánh xèo” translates to “sizzling cake,” which is a reference to the sound it makes when the batter hits the hot skillet.
  • Bun rieu: This tangy and savory noodle dish is a local favorite, perfect for enjoying any time of the day. It features a delicious mix of crab, tomatoes, tofu, and often a touch of shrimp paste. 
  • Beef hotpot: Hot Pot lovers, especially fans of beef hotpot, will also be delighted here. The hotpot typically includes beef tendon, meatballs, beef brisket, mushrooms, tofu, fresh vegetables, and noodles. Dip the beef into a special fermented tofu sauce called chao, and you’ll be in heaven.
Beef hotpot
Beef hotpot

Some Buying Flower Tips At Ho Thi Ky Night Market

Here are some recommended tips when buying flowers at Ho Thi Ky Flower Market:

  • Understanding the varieties of flowers you want and learning some local terminology can greatly enhance your communication with sellers and help you secure better deals.
  • Shopping early can help you get the best stuff. So you should visit this place early in the morning when fresh flowers have just been delivered.
  • When choosing flowers, you should choose flowers with strong stems and leaves.
  • If you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience, consider visiting the market in the afternoon when it is less crowded.
  • If you’re uncertain about a particular flower, don’t hesitate to ask the seller for detailed care instructions to keep your flowers looking their best.
  • Be aware that the market can become extremely busy during holidays than plan your visit accordingly.
  • If you want to take photos at the stalls, always ask for permission first. Some sellers may not be comfortable with being photographed.
  • Bargaining is common in Vietnamese markets, just keep it respectful and don’t go too far.
A couple of tips for buying flower
A couple of tips for buying flower

Places of interest near Ho Thi Ky Street Food Market

Flowers hold an important place in Vietnamese culture, as an expression of love, respect and celebration. So it’s no surprise that Ho Thi Ky night market is always crowded all year round and is one of the famous places in Ho Chi Minh City. Just come here and immerse yourself in a paradise of countless blooming flowers.