After more than two weeks of intense renovation, the iconic market - located in Ben Thanh Ward - has unveiled its completed upgrades. A bold red-tiled roof now tops the structure, while the expansive public square in front has been transformed with bright decorative touches and restructured space.

Nguyen Phuong Hong, a local who came to check in at the reopened site, shared her excitement. "Ben Thanh looks more striking than ever. The plaza feels spacious and open, which makes visiting even more enjoyable," she said.

Among the most eye-catching additions are small boats arranged across the square, creating a vibrant and picturesque setting. These details have become instant magnets for photographers and social media enthusiasts.

Not only young people but also older residents have made their way to the site to capture memorable moments and witness the market’s transformation firsthand.

International visitors passing by have also been drawn in by the market’s refreshed facade and lively ambiance. Many expressed delight at the updated colors and overall brighter vibe of the place.

For Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh, a tourist, what stood out most were the decorative wave patterns adorning the new square. "It’s colorful and thoughtful. It feels modern but still rooted in culture," she said.

According to the project team, the wave motifs were chosen as a nod to the cultural and historical identity of southern Vietnam - especially its intricate canal network. Historically, Ben Thanh Market once sat along the Ben Nghe River, and the new design seeks to evoke that memory in a contemporary urban context.

Beyond the central square, other corners of the surrounding area have also been beautified with miniature landscapes and decor elements, adding more reasons for both locals and tourists to stroll through and enjoy the festive season.

Ben Thanh Market was originally constructed in 1912 and completed in March 1914. Spanning around 13,000 square meters, the structure sits at the intersection of Phan Boi Chau, Phan Chu Trinh, Le Thanh Ton, and Quach Thi Trang Square. As one of Ho Chi Minh City’s architectural icons, it holds deep ties to the city’s growth and cultural evolution.

This renovation was part of a larger city initiative aimed at revitalizing public spaces for Tet 2026. The People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City approved upgrades to seven streets, intersections, and communal areas, including the Ben Thanh square, Phu Dong Roundabout, Turtle Lake, and major downtown streets such as Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, Ham Nghi, and Hai Ba Trung.

 
Tuan Hung