History Museum

Since Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and witnesses historical changes of this nation, museums conveying the culture and history dot every nook and cranny. Among them the one stands out is the History Museum showcasing Vietnam’s history with exhibits from all periods.

Built in 1929, the museum changed its name three times: Blanchard de la Brosse Museu, Saigon National Museum and the now used, History Museum. Collections are displayed in two sections. One exhibits Vietnamese history beginning with the Stone Age and proceeding up through the French colonial period as you amble clockwise through the building. The other is galleries for particular themes, such as Oc Eo culture, culture of the Mekong Delta, Champa art, Saigon ethnic minority groups, etc.. Ancient sandstone sculptures and Roman coins from the 2th century also can be found here.

Special display is hosted as well. Check the schedule before you go. There is a small theater performing water puppet show, but according to reviews, it’s nothing compared with the one played in Hanoi. The museum opens on Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00am to 11:00am and 1:30pm to 4:30pm.

Ho Chi Minh City boats also the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda and War Remnants. If you want to see how the local lifestyle is like, visit Ben Thanh Market. The city is also a convenient access to Cambodia and Laos. For those want to sightsee more authentic of Asia, this 18-Day Vietnam with Angkor Wat & Luang Prabang seems pretty the right itinerary.