Saigon Japan Town (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Saigon Japan Town?
What makes it 85% Couple-Friendly: Couples gain romantic value from dusk lantern walks, intimate izakayas, hidden sake lounges, and affordable couple spa sessions; only narrow lanes and limited seating slightly limit comfort.
Positives:
- Romantic ambiance: Soft lantern light and noren curtains create a cozy date-night atmosphere.
- Authentic tastes: Local izakayas and ramen bars bring real Japanese flavors to District 1.
- Hidden discoveries: Quiet side alleys reveal unexpected sake bars and unique photo spots.
Challenges:
- Crowded at peak times: Main alleys fill up after 8pm on weekends, making navigation slower.
- Limited signage: Venues often lack visible signs; use a map app to find hidden bars.
What is Saigon Japan Town?
- A hidden neighbourhood of intertwining alleys in District 1 that recreates a compact Japanese quarter
- A concentration of Japanese-run bars, izakayas, ramen shops and sushi counters behind traditional wooden facades and noren curtains
- Red-and-white paper lanterns, bamboo accents and rows of sake barrels evoking the streetscapes of Tokyo and Kyoto
What is so special about Saigon Japan Town for couple trip?
- Stroll lantern-lit alleys for a romantic Tokyo-style feel
- Capture Instagram-worthy shots at murals and sake barrels
- Share intimate dinners at izakayas or ramen bars
- Relax together with a Japanese-style spa session
- Explore hidden sake lounges for late-night drinks
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can stroll lantern-lit alleys, dine, and relax in a spa without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Saigon Japan Town
Walk lantern-lit alleys:
Stroll through Alley 15B and Alley 8A at dusk under hundreds of paper lanterns.
Tip: Go around 6pm to catch the lanterns being lit and avoid the largest crowds.
Photo ops at sake barrels:
Pause by rows of sake barrels and wooden shopfronts for Tokyo-style photos.
Tip: Use a wide aperture on your camera to blur the background lanterns into soft light spots.
Izakaya dinner:
Try grilled skewers and highball cocktails at Izakaya Kamura.
Tip: Book a small table or counter seat in advance; expect VND 150,000–300,000 per person.
Sushi or ramen date:
Share a sushi set at Sushi Tiger or a bowl of ramen at Danbo.
Tip: Arrive early or reserve; popular slots fill up by 7pm, bowls cost VND 200,000–350,000 each.
Japanese-style spa:
Unwind with a 30-minute express massage or 90-minute Shiatsu at Ashikata Honpo.
Tip: Book your session after dinner; express massage is about USD 8 per person.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Saigon Japan Town
- Visit at dusk: Start around 6pm to see lanterns light up and secure dinner reservations.
- Book tables early: Reserve izakaya or ramen spots online to avoid waiting in line.
- Use ride-hailing: Take a Grab to Thai Van Lung to save time and avoid parking hassles.
Reviews of Saigon Japan Town
Carla Roberts
Nice place to walk around in and grab a bite of authentic Japanese cuisine (there are dumplings, bbq, ramen, sushi etc). There are some bars here too, with some offering more than beer 😉
Ong C
Travel Cafe Eat Drink - Malaysia & Asia There's a small Japanese street or they called it a Japanese town with lots of Japanese eateries and some are owned by locals. Looks like this place is more lively at night as many shops are still closed
Petr J
A really nice place to visit. We went during the day to explore the shops and try some food. I imagine it’s much more spectacular at night, thanks to the vibrant nightlife, so it’s definitely worth a try. However, during the day it doesn’t offer as many options.
Stephen Kelly
Love this area of District 1, way better than where most tourists go. I'm 11 days into a month long stay. My 5th month long vacation in Japan Town in past three years. Affordable accommodation. Great restaurants and coffee shops keep me coming back.
Billie Price
Wow what a fun little spot. Great food and everyone is so happy. The bars are very fun and the girls love to joke around and have a drink with you. A lot of beautiful women around for you to meet and spend time with. Everyone seems so happy. The restaurants have amazing Japanese food. The ramen was delicious and tempura 🍤 prawns and scallops were a real treat!
When is the best time to visit Saigon Japan Town (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
HCMC is hot and humid year-round. Visit on weekdays or before the rainy season (June–October) for quieter alleys. Carry a small umbrella during showers.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Lantern-lit alley stroll | VND 0 |
| Izakaya dinner for two | VND 500,000 |
| Express spa massage for two | VND 368,000 |
| Bar-hop drinks (4) | VND 480,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 1,348,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Saigon Japan Town
Address: 8A Thái Văn Lung, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
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About Saigon Japan Town
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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