Twisting through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City beats the lifeblood of this vibrant metropolis: the Saigon River, also known as Dua River. This waterway has witnessed centuries of change. It has nurtured dreams and facilitated trade.
The Saigon River originates near Phum Daung in southeastern Cambodia. It flows south and southeast for about 230 kilometers. The river empties into the Nha Be River. That river then flows into the South China Sea.
Imagine the 17th century. The Nguyen Dynasty established Gia Dinh province. It is now Ho Chi Minh City. The only way to reach this small land was by sailing on the Ben Nghe River. That was the former name of the Saigon River. The dynasty developed trade. Gia Dinh became a main port. This was thanks to the rivers and canals near the East Sea. Ships sailed through the Can Gio sea area to the Nha Be River. They turned into the Ben Nghe River to reach Gia Dinh.
The Saigon River’s golden age spanned from the 18th century to the early 20th century. The city became a major trade port in the Far East under French rule. The Ben Nghe River teemed with ships from China, Malaysia, and Europe. Nha Rong Port became a vital stop. It linked trade routes between Europe and Asia. Saigon earned the nickname “The Pearl of the Far East”. The Saigon River significantly contributed to the French capital city of Indochina. It boosted its economy and entertainment. It rivaled Singapore under British rule.
Today, the Saigon River remains crucial to Ho Chi Minh City. It is the main water supply. Saigon Port handles over 35 million metric tons of cargo annually. The Binh Quoi Tourist Village sits on the Thanh Da peninsula along the Saigon River.
The Saigon River Tunnel opened in 2011. It connects District 1 to the Thu Thiem New Urban Area. It was Southeast Asia’s longest cross-river tunnel. Bridges also span the river. They include the Thu Thiem Bridge, Ba Son Bridge, and Phu My Bridge.
In 2017, the Saigon Waterbus service launched. It connects District 1 with Thu Duc District. The Saigon River continues to shape Ho Chi Minh City. It carries the city’s history and propels its future.
Take a water bus. You can cruise along the Saigon River. You will see the city from a new perspective. The river embraces Ho Chi Minh City. It is like a soft scarf. Its color changes with the time and weather. Sometimes, it is red with alluvial deposits. Other times, it mirrors the blue sky.
Consider a sunset cruise. The twilight scenery is dyed with purple and pink hues. It offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy dinner on a boat. Dine at a riverside restaurant. You can immerse yourself in the city’s charm. The Saigon River’s story is a story of transformation and endurance. It mirrors the soul of Ho Chi Minh City.