23rd September Park (Công viên 23 Tháng 9) is a significant urban green space located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, stretching between Pham Ngu Lao Street and Le Lai Street. The park spans approximately 12 hectares and serves as a central recreational area for both locals and tourists. It is located in the northern end of District 1 close to Bui Vien Street.
The park’s name commemorates September 23, 1945, when the Viet Minh launched their resistance against French colonial forces in Saigon. During the colonial period, this area was known as Jardin de la Ville (City Garden) and served as a recreational space for French residents.
The layout of 23rd September Park follows a linear design, running parallel to the busy streets of downtown Saigon. Wide pedestrian pathways crisscross through carefully manicured lawns and gardens, creating multiple walking routes for visitors.
Mature trees, including numerous tropical species, provide essential shade throughout the park, making it a welcome refuge from Ho Chi Minh City’s intense heat.
The park features several distinct zones, each serving different purposes. The central area contains an open plaza often used for public events, performances, and holiday celebrations. This space becomes particularly lively during Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and other traditional festivals when it hosts cultural performances and temporary markets.
Along the park’s length, various exercise stations are installed for public use, featuring basic workout equipment that’s popular among local residents during early morning and evening exercise sessions. Several children’s playgrounds are scattered throughout the park, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing frames.
The landscape architecture incorporates traditional Vietnamese elements with modern urban design. Small ornamental bridges span decorative water features, while contemporary sculpture installations provide artistic focal points throughout the space.
The park’s planting scheme includes both native Vietnamese species and ornamental tropical plants, creating year-round color and interest.
One of the park’s most distinctive features is its location adjacent to the Ben Thanh Market, making it a natural extension of this historic trading area. The park serves as a buffer zone between the market’s lively commercial activity and the surrounding urban development. At night, the nearby Ben Thanh Night Market creates a dynamic atmosphere that spills into the park’s eastern section.
The park’s perimeter is lined with numerous food vendors and small cafes, particularly along Pham Ngu Lao Street, which is famous for its backpacker scene. These establishments offer traditional Vietnamese street food and refreshments, adding to the park’s appeal as a social gathering space.
Address: Pham Ngu Lao Street to Le Lai Street District 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours daily Peak usage: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Security personnel patrol the park regularly, particularly during evening hours. The park is well-lit at night, with strategically placed lighting along pathways and in gathering areas. Public restrooms are available within the park grounds and are maintained by park staff.
The park underwent significant renovations in the early 2000s to improve facilities and update the landscape design. These improvements included the installation of a modern irrigation system, enhancement of pedestrian pathways, and the addition of new recreational facilities.
Photography opportunities are abundant throughout the park, particularly during early morning and late afternoon when the light is ideal and local residents engage in traditional activities such as tai chi and group exercise. The contrast between the park’s peaceful environment and the surrounding urban landscape provides compelling compositional possibilities for photographers.
