Trails of Quach Dam: Chinatown discovery

Go on authentic adventures on two wheels into the heart of Cholon Chinatown

Meet Time: 7:30 AM or 1:30 PM
Duration: 4 hrs
Distance: ~ 20km
Elevation: Mostly Flat
Level: Beginner

What You Will Do

Hop on a bike and let’s roll through the lively streets of the city from District 1 to District 5, Chinatown Cho Lon, Saigon’s Chinatown, to follow the wild ride of Quach Dam’s life! Picture this: a kid scrapping by, selling bits and pieces in District 5, who grows up to become one of Saigon’s richest folks. As we weave through buzzing alleys, colorful markets, and old buildings, you’ll see where he left his mark and hear stories about the awesome stuff he did for the city.

Itinerary

1. Warm Welcome & Safety First
We’ll begin with introductions, a journey overview, and safety briefing.

2. Binh Dong Wharf
Set in the heart of Saigon, we begin our adventure cycling and, immersing ourselves through the hustle and bustle of Chinatown’s enchanting historical charms and learning about the story of Chinatown’s richest man, Quach Dam.

Binh Dong Wharf is a historic wharf located on the side of the Tau Hu Canal, parallel to the Vo Van Kiet Boulevard, in District 8 of Ho Chi Minh City. It has been in existence since ancient times and bears the imprint of old Saigon with its distinctive feature “above the pier, under the boat”. Binh Dong Wharf is an important traffic and trade route for Saigon and its vicinity. It was once the busiest trading spot in Saigon – Cho Lon

3. Cho Lon Saigon
Step away from the chaotic main roads and roam around the alleyways of Cholon. This is where life takes place for most locals. Drop in on a sidewalk chess tournament, join merchants for an iced tea break, or simply admire the architecture

Cholon, also known as Cho Lon, is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood in Ho Chi Minh City. It is home to numerous temples and landmarks that reflect the Chinese influence in the area. Cholon has been a stronghold for the Chinese-Vietnamese community since the late 1770s. It is the place where the majority of ethnically Chinese, or are descended from ethically Chinese people, live and trade. The quarter has long been inhabited by Chinese people and is considered the largest Chinatown in the world by area.

4. Binh Tay Market
He started his journey as a poor man with no capital to do business. However, through his hard work and progressive mindset, he became one of the most successful and wealthy businessmen in the South of Vietnam during the early 20th century. He was known for his generosity and compassion towards the less fortunate members of the community. He is a great example for everyone, especially young people, to follow.

For much of the last decade of his life, despite being beset by ill health and also suffering partial paralysis, Quách Đàm continued to play an active role in Chợ Lớn’s business and community affairs. Today he remains best known for the crucial role he played in the establishment of the Bình Tây Market.