Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market and Tax Department Store undergo a makeover to welcome the Year of the Horse 2026.

Ho Chi Minh City is accelerating the renovation of iconic landmarks in the central area to welcome the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026. The focus of this upgrade is Ben Thanh Market and the former Tax Department Store site, aiming to create green and refreshing cultural and recreational spaces for residents and tourists celebrating the spring festival.

Ben Thanh Market: The beauty of a heritage site is being revitalized.

Ben Thanh Market, a more than 100-year-old symbol of the city, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation in preparation for the biggest holiday of the year. While retaining its distinctive architectural structure, the entire exterior paintwork is being refreshed to give it a radiant look, and the artistic lighting system is being replaced with more modern technology.

Ben Thanh Market has been repainted in preparation for the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026.

Ben Thanh Market boasts a new look and colors that evoke the spirit of Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year).

Notably, the square in front of the market is also undergoing rapid construction to complete the landscaping. The synchronized painting and renovation of the buildings opposite not only creates a visual connection but also transforms the area into an ideal location for young people to take photos in traditional ao dai (Vietnamese dress).

People take photos and check in at the facade of Ben Thanh Market.

The facade of Ben Thanh Market is a favorite spot for young people to take photos during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year).

Reviving the Tax Department Store site into a flower park.

Another groundbreaking transformation is taking place at the former Tax Department Store site (135 Nguyen Hue). After being enclosed by corrugated iron fences for a long time, the area will be opened to become a vibrant flower garden park. This is an important step in optimizing prime real estate in the city center to create public spaces.

The former Tax Department Store area is being renovated into a park.

Removing the fences and planting new flowers and plants not only creates a seamless connection between Nguyen Hue and Le Loi streets but also forms a cool "green lung" in the heart of the city. Instead of its previous wild appearance, the new park will provide an airy space for people to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The combination of the ancient charm of Ben Thanh Market and the freshness of Tax Department Store Park promises to transform the central area of District 1 into the most bustling hub of Ho Chi Minh City during the upcoming Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse).

A panoramic view of the central area of Ho Chi Minh City preparing to welcome Tet (Lunar New Year).