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Tao Dan Park

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The Green Lung of Saigon: History and Tranquility

Spanning over 10 hectares, Tao Dan Park stands as the city’s vital “green lung,” offering a refreshing escape from the relentless bustle of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1.

  • Ancient Roots: Established in 1869, the park is one of the oldest in the city, originally named “Jardin de la Ville” (City Garden) during the French colonial era. Its current name, Tao Dan, is said to be inspired by a poetry society of King Lê Thánh Tông, symbolizing a gathering place for art and talent—a spirit still evident today.

  • The Best Time to Visit: The park is a living stage for local Saigonese life, best experienced in the early morning (around 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) and late afternoon. This is when the cool air is filled with the gentle movements of Tai Chi practitioners, the energetic rhythm of aerobics classes, and the quiet concentration of various martial arts groups.

  • Entrance Fee: Visiting the park is typically Free of charge on normal days, making it an accessible slice of local culture for all travelers.

Unique Cultural Experiences

Tao Dan Park offers more than just shade; it’s a window into the daily rituals of the local community.

  • The Morning Bird Song: One of the most fascinating sights is the impromptu Bird Cafe gatherings. Local bird fanciers bring their caged exotic birds to the park, hanging them on tree branches to allow them to “practice” singing and socialize with other birds. It’s a wonderful, noisy, and uniquely Vietnamese social ritual that offers a rare photo opportunity and a genuine interaction with local hobbyists.

  • Hidden Historical Relics: Amidst the lush foliage, the park is home to several cultural landmarks. Look for the Temple of the Hùng Kings (honoring Vietnam’s legendary founders) and a miniature replica of a Cham Tower, both of which add an unexpected historical depth to the tranquil setting. The park also contains an over 200-year-old ancient tomb, a subtle but powerful reminder of the land’s deep past.

  • Festival Showcase: If you visit during the Tết (Lunar New Year) holiday, Tao Dan Park transforms into the venue for a spectacular Spring Flower Festival, where intricate and vibrant floral arrangements are displayed, drawing large crowds and creating an electric atmosphere of celebration.

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4.5
Based on 15166 reviews
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Lauren B.
20:25 25 Sep 25
A beautiful and serene park in the middle of bustling Ho Chi Minh City.

Pros:
-Lots of shade to escape the sun & rain
-Lots of butterflies, squirrels, and other adorable insects and small animals
-Very peaceful; doesn’t get too busy
-Has a playground for children, so is very family-friendly

Cons:
The major (and only) con I’ve ever run into here, twice now, is a shoe cleaning scam. If you are a foreigner, they will make a casual beeline toward you and either 1. compliment your shoes and ask to take a look, or 2. make a “ew” face and start cleaning them immediately. The first time this happened, I said no three times but they chased me down anyways, and a local I was chatting with ended up making him only charge me around 60,000vnd. The next time I went, the man was so aggressive he would let me go, and basically tore off my sandal and wouldn’t give it back. He installed and shaved down new ankles for my birkenstocks, though I repeatedly told him not to, and stated countless times that I had no money. He demanded 500k and kept hounding me to go to an ATM. I stayed firm, gave him the only money I had (which was $4usd, which he kept trying to throw back at me) and ran the heck outta there.

If you quickly walk away and don’t engage with them, you should be fine. Besides all of this, the walk itself is beautiful.
E 3.
08:17 31 Jul 25
Nice plcw for you, friends, family ot hang out, jogging, walking, aerobic,....

Playground for kid but it is not good condition

Fiah ponds

Fresh air

Many plant here. Free wc.

Squirrels stick around tree.🤩😱😃
Rose T
22:34 04 Jul 25
This place must be alive with colour when all the flowers are in bloom. This is an expansive park in very busy District 1. It feels like an oasis away from the constant traffic noises. There are temples, whimsical displays and carvings. On the morning we were there, a man was whistling for squirrels to come down from the trees to get nuts he had placed for them. He told us that this is his daily routine and wouldn't miss a day without feeding his squirrels. A beautiful tranquil park if you want to take a break for a while.
Hà Trang Minh (Bryan T.
08:40 14 Jun 25
Tao Dan Park in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, is a serene urban oasis that beckons with its sprawling greenery and tranquil charm.

This expansive park offers ample space for relaxation, leisurely strolls, or invigorating exercise, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Shaded by towering trees, some centuries old, the park creates a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. At its heart lies the solemn Hung Kings Temple, surrounded by ancient giants, adding a touch of cultural reverence to the natural beauty.

The park’s well-maintained paths wind through lush lawns and vibrant flowerbeds, perfect for jogging, yoga, or simply unwinding with a book. Early mornings hum with energy as groups gather for tai chi, while evenings bring a peaceful ambiance for reflective walks. Families, friends, and solo travelers find solace in its open spaces, where the air feels cleaner and the pace slower.

Tao Dan Park is more than greenery; it’s a vibrant slice of Saigon’s soul, blending nature, culture, and community. Its central location in District 1 makes it an easy stop between exploring nearby attractions.

Whether you seek exercise, meditation, or a moment of calm, this park inspires with its timeless beauty and inviting spirit. A visit here rejuvenates the body and soul, leaving you enchanted by its enduring allure.
Jayasankar S
10:42 24 Mar 25
Today, I am walking it’s very less people very fresh air After long time, I walking I see they cut the many tree .🌴 🌳 without cut. Also, this Park tree very beautiful. I take some leaf 🍁 🍂 🍃 very nice and a flower 🌼 🌷 thank you for your support for the people. I love this park, very much.🙏😊 I will always come this park TAO DAN PARK visit.❤️🙏😊 Vietnam 🇻🇳
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