Binh Duong

Binh Duong is a province located in the southeastern part of Vietnam. It shares borders with Binh Phuoc to the north, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to the south and southwest, Tay Ninh to the west, and Dong Nai to the east.

Historically, Binh Duong was part of the Song Be province, which was split into Binh Duong and Binh Phuoc in 1997. It was established concurrently with the Saigon-Dong Nai area during the southward territorial expansion led by Nguyen Huu Canh. Owing to its diverse history, Binh Duong is home to 15 ethnic groups. Besides the Kinh majority, the Hoa people are the next largest group, followed by the Khmer and several other ethnic communities.

Do and See

Although Binh Duong is primarily a destination for expatriates living and working, it offers several intriguing cultural activities that highlight the uniqueness of the province.

Chua Ba Thien Hau Festival

This annual festival occurs on Tet Nguyen Tieu (the 15th day of the first month of the Lunar Calendar). It holds significant importance for the Hoa community not only in Binh Duong but also throughout Vietnam, with festivities in Ho Chi Minh City’s China Town, District 5. The main celebrations are held at Ba Pagoda, alongside additional events at Bung Market. Participants engage in rituals with the hope of securing prosperity and luck for the year ahead. A common practice is "borrowing money" from Ba, the Lady; attendees receive a small amount of money placed in a red envelope, believed to bring fortune in business during the coming year. Those who borrowed money in the previous year return the envelope to exchange for a new one.
Photo: midori-park.com 

Fruit Garden in Lai Thieu

If you have a penchant for tropical fruits but cannot travel to the Mekong Delta provinces, the Fruit Garden in Lai Thieu is a great substitute. The area is particularly known for its mangosteen. Prepare for a delightful fruit buffet experience in Lai Thieu.

Crafts Village

Binh Duong is renowned for its skilled craft villages, specializing in ceramics, pottery, wooden shoes, wood sculpture, lacquerware, and more. If you're interested in manual craftsmanship, planning a visit to Binh Duong should definitely be on your agenda. Recommended places include Minh Long Ceramics, Binh Nham Wooden Shoe village, Phu Tho Wood Sculpture village, and Tuong Binh Hiep Binh Lacquer village.

Dai Nam Van Hien Theme Park

If you have visited Dam Sen or Suoi Tien and are looking for another theme park experience, consider Dai Nam Van Hien Theme Park. This park is significantly larger than Dam Sen or Suoi Tien and features numerous outdoor games perfect for family outings or picnics with friends. However, since it has been in operation for only a few years, the trees have not yet matured enough to provide shade during the midday sun. Therefore, visitors should apply sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid dehydration or heat stroke.

Read more about Dai Nam Park.
Photo: vietnamdiscovery.com

Eat

Beo Cake at Bung Market

Bung Market offers a variety of delectable dishes, but Beo Cake topped with shredded pork should be at the top of your must-try list. The shredded pork is cooked in coconut juice before being served with the Beo Cake, enhancing the dish's flavors.

In addition, you can sample Bun Bi (vermicelli with shredded pork) or Bi Cuon (shredded pork fresh rolls) for a change of pace.
Photo by @ktpham.9564

Bun Tom at Chau Truc Village

Binh Duong is also famous for its unique take on Bun Tom (vermicelli with shrimp). Unlike other types of bun you may have tried in Saigon or other provinces, Bun Tom is prepared fresh upon order. The shrimp is cooked in a distinctive manner that enhances its flavor. Be sure not to miss this signature dish during your visit to Binh Duong.

** Cover Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Shutterstock.com