The War Remnants Museum – A Sobering Reminder Amidst the Glamour of Saigon
The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a place that houses and displays numerous images, documents, and artifacts that evoke memories of the painful and invasive war in Vietnam.
Introduction to the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum, located at 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, is one of the renowned museums in the city. It is a member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and functions as a repository for research, collection, preservation, and exhibition of materials, images, and artifacts related to the devastating consequences of the war caused by invading forces on Vietnam. The museum also conveys the message of the spirit of struggle to protect independence, anti-war consciousness, peace preservation, and friendly relations among nations.
Getting to the Museum
The museum is conveniently situated in the city center, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation:
- Bus: You can take bus routes such as 14 (from Mien Dong Bus Station), 06 (from Cho Lon Bus Station), or 28 (from Ben Thanh Market) to reach the War Remnants Museum.
- Taxi: There are numerous taxi companies in Ho Chi Minh City, and taxi Green SM is recommended for comfortable and reasonably priced transportation.
- Ride-Hailing Services: Ride-hailing services provide an interesting option to explore the streets and alleys of Saigon.
- Motorbike: If you’re comfortable riding a motorbike, you can follow routes such as Cong Hoa Street, Truong Chinh Street, and Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, and turn onto Vo Van Tan Street to reach the museum.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices in 2023
For a well-planned visit to the War Remnants Museum, take note of the following information:
- Opening Hours: The museum is open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM every day, including weekends and holidays. Ticket sales close at 5:00 PM.
- Ticket Prices: The entrance fee is 40,000 VND per person. Free admission is granted to children under 6 years old, disabled individuals, and those from low-income families. There’s a 50% discount for children aged 6 to under 16, students, seniors, revolution contributors, people from mountainous and remote areas, etc.
Please note that these prices and opening hours are subject to change, so it’s advisable to verify them at the time of your visit.
Exhibits and Sections
The War Remnants Museum features a modern three-story building with an exhibition area of 4,522 square meters and an outdoor display area of 3,026 square meters. The museum’s exhibition system is diverse, with more than 20,000 documents, artifacts, and films preserved.
- Ground Floor: This section focuses on the international support for Vietnam’s resistance against the U.S. invasion. It displays images and materials from protests, meetings, and conferences worldwide that opposed the invasion and supported Vietnam’s just war.
- First Floor: This floor highlights the war crimes committed by U.S. soldiers, the effects of the toxic Agent Orange, and infamous events like the My Lai massacre. The exhibits showcase the atrocities and the painful consequences of the war on Vietnam’s people and land.
- Second Floor: Here, visitors can explore the historical truths of the war and its impact. It also displays the effects of chemical warfare, with a special emphasis on the photography collection by Japanese photographers Ishikawa Bunyo and Goro Nakamura, portraying the life during wartime and the efforts for peace.
Activities and Tips
Besides its regular exhibitions, the War Remnants Museum hosts various mobile exhibitions, educational programs, discussions, and workshops related to history. To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:
- Dress appropriately and follow the museum’s rules and regulations.
- You can opt for guided tours or audio guides to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Leave your bulky luggage at the luggage storage and safeguard your personal belongings.
- Respect the staff’s instructions and the museum’s guidelines.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Saigon, being a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub, offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Besides the War Remnants Museum, consider visiting:
- Museum of Southern Women: This museum celebrates the role and beauty of Vietnamese women throughout history.
- Independence Palace (Reunification Palace): A historic landmark that witnessed the liberation of Saigon, showcasing unique architecture and preserved artifacts.
- Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens: A popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts to witness a diverse range of animals and plant species.
When visiting Saigon, you have the opportunity to explore not only its historical significance but also its lively culture, making your trip a well-rounded experience
