{"id":5310,"date":"2020-12-30T10:36:47","date_gmt":"2020-12-30T02:36:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/?p=5310"},"modified":"2022-05-11T11:04:27","modified_gmt":"2022-05-11T03:04:27","slug":"saigon-japan-town","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/saigon-japan-town\/","title":{"rendered":"Saigon Japan Town Guide: From Late-Night Izakaya Snacks To Spas, Salons & Hostess Bars"},"content":{"rendered":"

“Little Japan” in Ho Chi Minh City\u2019s District 1<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n

For unique Japanese experiences without having to leave Vietnam, head south from Saigon River, and navigate the maze of skyscrapers and townhouses into the understated neighborhood of Le Thanh Ton and Thai Van Lung. You\u2019ll find chic <\/span>Japan Town <\/b>hidden among these backstreets.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Among downtown Saigon\u2019s most fashionable residential areas, Saigon\u2019s “Little Japan” or <\/span>Japan Town <\/b>is a colorful treasure trove of high-quality Japanese restaurants, cafes, and lounges lining the lantern-lit alleyways (<\/span>yokocho<\/span><\/em>). Vibrant and captivating, Japan Town is where you can spot sparkling Japanese influences in Saigon, from food to relaxation to amusement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– How to get to Japan Town in Saigon –
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"JapanLe Thanh Ton Street<\/em><\/p>\n

Le Thanh Ton and Thai Van Lung Streets got their major boost around 2010 when the city saw a surge in the number of Japanese expats coming here to do business.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Since plenty of Japanese companies are located along these streets, a majority of Japanese expats also choose to settle in the backstreets of this area, and formed a close-knit community.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Since then, this little-trafficked neighborhood started to rise in prominence as Japanese restaurateurs and innovative pub owners drawn to its idiosyncratic atmosphere began opening establishments in and around it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Japan Town\u2019s location<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Le<\/p>\n

Le Thanh Ton and Thai Van Lung Streets are dedicated to Japanese office buildings and restaurants, but the real Japan Town neighborhood is nestled in the alleys behind these 2 main streets.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Access the neighborhood through 15A and 15B alleys, or through the 8A Thai Van Lung alley. Out of these 3 alleys, only the 15B alley and the 8A Thai Van Lung alley are linked with each other.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Compared to the vibrant and brightly lit 15B and 8A Thai Van Lung alleys, which are the commercial parts of the neighborhood, the 15A alley is quieter and known as the residential area.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"15A<\/p>\n

Home to plenty of townhouses where rooms are leased to Japanese expats working in the area, the 15A alley is not directly linked to the 15B alley.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

However, you can still find several eateries here that cater to the needs of residents next door.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For those who are keen to experience the fun nightlife here, walk for about 100m straight ahead and you\u2019ll see the 15B alley, where you\u2019ll be welcomed with the sight of many lanterns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

This is also home to one of Saigon\u2019s most popular lantern spots, as the whole place becomes enveloped in a haze of glowing red in the evening.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Dense and complex, the 15B alley is like a maze. Check out the directories at the entrance of every alley before venturing into the area to make sure you don\u2019t get lost.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Where to park your vehicle in Japan Town<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

You can park your bike for free at a parking lot at the Thai Van Lung entrance under the watch of 2 security guards.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

If you access the neighborhood entrance at the 15A alley, feel free to park your bike anywhere you like, as long as it doesn\u2019t block people\u2019s way.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

There are no security guards there, but the alleys are equipped with tons of CCTV cameras coupled with a police booth nearby, so it\u2019s perfectly safe to leave your bike there.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– What to eat in Saigon\u2019s Japan Town –\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
\n

1. Sushi Kobayashi – sushi made and served on the spot<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"SushiSalmon roe<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Sushi kobayashi<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

No traveler should leave Japan without eating sushi, the country\u2019s culinary staple, and that same rule might as well apply for those dropping by Japan Town in Saigon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sushi lovers looking for authentic sushi dishes should check out <\/span>Sushi Kobayashi<\/b>, one of very few Japanese restaurants in Vietnam that offers<\/span> omakase<\/span><\/em>, a formal dining experience in which guests let the chefs make total decisions on the dish and ingredients.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

At Sushi Kobayashi, you\u2019ll find plenty of scrumptious and innovative sushi dishes made by chefs using the finest Japan-imported ingredients in front of you and served straight to your plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Sushi
\nImage credit: Sushi kobayashi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

From the fresh and subtly fatty salmon roe sushi (VND140,000 for 2 pieces) <\/b>to sweet and tender shrimp sushi (VND90,000, ~USD3.90)<\/b>, you\u2019ll find all types of sushi here.<\/p>\n

For a more fulfilling option yet pretty costly, you can order a <\/span>full <\/b>omakase<\/em> <\/b>dinner set <\/b>which includes sushi, rice, steamed egg, and omelette soup <\/span>(VND800,000-VND1,200,000, ~USD34.63-USD51.94<\/b>).<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Sushi
\nImage credit: Sushi kobayashi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While this is one of the most expensive places in town for sushi<\/em>, the craftsmanship and passion of the chefs here, highly praised by customers, make it worth a try.<\/p>\n

Please note that this place is not vegetarian-friendly and only allows guests aged 12 and up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 8A\/G7A Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>Mon\u2013Sat 6PM-12AM | Closed Sundays
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b><\/span> 0976 342 700
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

2. Tori Soba Mutahiro – chicken bone-based ramen broth<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"
\nTsukemen<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>\u9d8f\u305d\u3070\u30e0\u30bf\u30d2\u30ed-Mutahiro-\u3000\u30db\u30fc\u30c1\u30df\u30f3<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Since ramen is the staple of Japanese cuisine, there\u2019s no excuse for not trying this traditional dish when visiting the area.<\/p>\n

There are numerous ramen bars in the neighborhood, but Tori Soba Mutahiro <\/b>is one of the most unique places for ramen on our must-eat list.<\/p>\n

\"
\nImage credit: \u9d8f\u305d\u3070\u30e0\u30bf\u30d2\u30ed-Mutahiro-\u3000\u30db\u30fc\u30c1\u30df\u30f3<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Most ramen is cooked in pork broth, but Tori Soba Mutahiro dishes out ramen cooked with chicken bones, chicken oil, and torigara<\/em> chicken stock. This unique combination lends the broth a sweet and savory aftertaste.<\/p>\n

A bowl of soft wheat flour ramen served in<\/span> Japanese soy sauce-flavored chicken-based broth<\/b> is priced at <\/span>VND140,000 (~USD6.03). \u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

\"
\nImage credit: Jun Fujita<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The restaurant opens till 2AM in the morning, so don\u2019t hesitate to drop by when you have late-night cravings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>8A\/G8b Thai Van Lung Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>Mon\u2013Sat 11AM-2PM and 6PM-2AM | Closed Sundays
\n<\/span>Telephone: <\/b><\/span>090 890 16 45
\n<\/span>Tori Soba Mutahiro’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

3. Sukiya – affordable Japanese restaurant from only VND58,000 (~USD2.51)<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"SUKIYA<\/p>\n

Despite its prime location on the frontage of Le Thanh Ton Street, <\/span>Sukiya <\/b>is among the most affordable places in the area for Japanese food.<\/span><\/p>\n

From only<\/span> VND58,000, (~USD2.51),<\/b> diners can enjoy a fulfilling bowl of ramen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"SUKIYA
\nImage adapted from: Sukiya Vi\u1ec7t Nam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also find great options for lunch sets (bento<\/em>) here, ranging from only VND84,000 (~USD3.64)<\/b> for rice served with beef, miso <\/em>soup, and steamed egg. <\/b>This would normally cost \u00a5500 (~USD4.79) and up in Japan.<\/p>\n

\"SUKIYA
\nImage adapted from: Sukiya Vi\u1ec7t Nam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, a delicious bowl of <\/span>Yakiniku<\/b> donburi<\/b><\/em>, <\/span>which is a Japanese dish of grilled beef served over soft rice, starts from only <\/span>VND68,000 (~USD2.94)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Address: <\/b><\/span>10AB Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/b><\/span> Mon\u2013Thu, 10AM-10PM | Fri\u2013Sun, 9AM-10PM
\nTelephone:<\/strong> <\/span>0854 141 108<\/span><\/p>\n

Sukiya’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

4. Okonomiyaki Shu – delicious traditional Japanese seafood pancakes<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"OKONOMIYAKI
\nImage credit: \u304a\u597d\u307f\u713c\u304d \u79c0\u304a\u597d\u307f\u713c\u304d Shu<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With over 25 years of experience, Okonomiyaki Shu<\/b> is many local diners\u2019 go-to spot for piping hot and nourishing okonomiyaki<\/em>.<\/i><\/p>\n

\"OKONOMIYAKI
\nImage adapted from: <\/span><\/i>\u304a\u597d\u307f\u713c\u304d \u79c0\u304a\u597d\u307f\u713c\u304d Shu<\/a><\/span><\/i>
\n<\/a><\/span><\/i>
\nMade of batter and cabbage topped with customized ingredients such as seafood, meat, cheese, and wasabi<\/em>, this is a popular Japanese pan-fried dish.\u00a0\u00a0
\n<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\"OKONOMIYAKI
\nImage credit: \u304a\u597d\u307f\u713c\u304d \u79c0-Okonomiyaki Shu<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The restaurant is easy to find since it\u2019s located at the frontage of Le Thanh Ton Street. It also has a bookshelf filled with Japanese manga<\/em>, which you can browse through just like in mom-and-pop Japanese restaurants while waiting to be served.<\/p>\n

Recommended options include octopus with wasabi<\/em> pancake (VND70,000, ~USD3.03).<\/b><\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>15B11 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/b><\/span> Thu\u2013Mon 11AM-2PM and 4PM-11PM | Tue 11AM-11PM | Wed 4PM-11PM
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/span> <\/b>83 824 3403
\n<\/span>Okonomiyaki Shu’s website<\/a> |\u00a0<\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

5. Daiichi – Ramen & Curry – spectacular design and plenty of curry options<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"DAICHII
\nImage credit: Daiichi Ramen<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Boasting a facade glowing with lanterns hanging from gabled roofs reminiscent of Japanese architecture, Daiichi – Ramen & Curry<\/b> is a great place to enjoy curry and ramen in a traditional setting.<\/p>\n

\"daiichi
\nImage credit: hoanganh nguyen<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With bar seats charmingly arranged and a casual atmosphere, the dining space is amply lit with lanterns and old-style lamps commonly used in Japan\u2019s shrines.<\/p>\n

\"DAICHIIImage credit: Daiichi Ramen<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Those who like to drink broth can go for Tantanmen (VND100,000,~USD4.32)<\/b>, which is known for its rich, spicy, and creamy broth with harmonious notes of garlic and black bean sauce.<\/p>\n

\"daiichi
\nImage credit: <\/span>Daiichi Ramen<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you prefer noodles with a firm and chewy texture compared to ramen<\/em>, opt for Tsukemen (VND100,000,~USD4.32)<\/b>, topped with custard-like egg yolk and juicy pork slices.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"curry<\/span>Curry with deep-fried shrimp
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Daiichi Ramen<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

When it comes to curry, Daiichi – Ramen & Curry<\/span> has a variety of this indulgent Japanese classic dish for you to enjoy, from<\/span> curry with crispy deep-fried shrimp (VND110,000,~USD4.76)<\/b> to <\/span>curry with sweet and salty beef (<\/b>gyudon<\/i><\/b>) (VND120,000,~USD5.19)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"DAICHII
\nImage credit: Daiichi Ramen<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Vegetarians and vegans won\u2019t feel out of place here, with the warmly spiced curry with vegetables (VND90,000, ~USD3.90) <\/b>and curry with egg (VND90,000, ~USD3.90)<\/b>.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>8A\/2B2 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>Thu-Tue 11AM-11PM | Wed 11AM-9PM
\n<\/span>Telephone: <\/b><\/span>079 272 3555
\n<\/span>Daiichi Ramen’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

6. Izakaya Kunoichi – female ninja-themed restaurant\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"IZAKAYA
\n<\/span>Image adapted from: <\/span>Izakaya Kunoichi<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Named after kunoichi<\/em>, which is a Japanese word for female ninja who were killers, spies and messengers in the 16th and 17th century, Izakaya Kunoichi<\/b>\u2019s staff are all dressed in ninja outfits, or ninja-yori<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\"IZAKAYA
\nImage adapted from: Izakaya Kunoichi<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

At Izakaya Kunoichi, traditional Japanese dishes are served with a contemporary twist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"IZAKAYA
\nImage adapted from: k-yagi ots-d.com<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Savour the traditional<\/span> yakitori <\/em>or tender chicken grilled with teri sauce (VND85,000,~USD3.67) <\/b>or <\/span>smoky capelin fish (VND75,000, ~USD3.24).<\/b>\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Pair your dishes with a glass of refreshing draught beers or slightly sweet <\/span>sake<\/span><\/em>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"IZAKAYA
\nImage adapted from: Izakaya Kunoichi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Despite its small size, the restaurant is tastefully designed for comfort, with large posters of female ninjas and a dartboard for guests to entertain themselves.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 8a\/3b2 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>Mon\u2013Sat, 5PM-11PM | Closed Sundays
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/span> <\/b>0914 495 018
\n<\/span>Izakaya Kunoichi’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

7. Gyoza no Chikara – a good selection of Japanese dumplings\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"GYOZA
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>\u9903\u5b50\u306e\u30c1\u30ab\u30e9\u3000Gyoza no Chikara<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nMany people tend to associate Japanese food with sushi or ramen<\/em>, but I’d say<\/span> gyoza<\/em>, or Japanese dumplings, also aptly represent Japanese culinary culture. While <\/span>gyoza<\/em> can be found in many ramen and izakaya restaurants as a side dish, at <\/span>Gyoza no Chikara<\/b>, gyoza<\/em><\/span>\u00a0is served as the main dish.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\"boiled
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>\u9903\u5b50\u306e\u30c1\u30ab\u30e9\u3000Gyoza no Chikara<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Filled with minced pork and chopped vegetables, gyoza<\/em>\u00a0is usually served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, chili oil, and vinegar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"GYOZA
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>\u9903\u5b50\u306e\u30c1\u30ab\u30e9\u3000Gyoza no Chikara<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

What differentiates gyoza<\/em> from jiaozi<\/em>, or Chinese dumplings, is the thinner texture of the dumpling wrappers and the lighter flavors of the stuffing.<\/p>\n

\"GYOZA
\nImage credit: \u9903\u5b50\u306e\u30c1\u30ab\u30e9\u3000Gyoza no Chikara<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Gyoza Chikara offers a wide array of satisfying gyoza<\/em> options, from crispy yet juicy fried gyoza <\/em><\/i>(VND78,000,~USD3.37) <\/b>to tender and fresh tasting boiled gyoza<\/em>\u00a0with various flavorful stuffings (VND98,000,~USD4.24)<\/b>.<\/p>\n

If gyoza<\/em><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/i>alone is not enough to fill your belly, you can order a variety of other dishes such as the mild-flavored nyumen<\/em>, or thin wheat noodles <\/span>(VND120,000,~USD5.19)<\/b> or the savory deep-fried taro<\/span> (VND78,000,~USD3.37)<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Address: <\/b><\/span>8A\/H1 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/b><\/span> 11AM-10PM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/span> <\/b>77 417 0377
\n<\/span>Gyoza no Chikara’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

8. 5Ku Station – alfresco dining<\/strong>
\n<\/span><\/h4>\n
\n

\"5KU<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>5ku Station<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

While 5Ku Station<\/b> is not inside Japan Town proper, it\u2019s right across the street and a favorite outdoor dining spot among Japan Town residents and office workers nearby.<\/p>\n

Boasting a spacious dining space topped with a retractable roof, 5Ku Station is suitable for group diners looking for a casual and rustic dining atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"5KU<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>5ku Station<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Seafood dishes <\/span>such as clams, oysters, and snails (VND129,000, ~USD5.58 per dish) <\/b>are the most popular here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"5KU
\nImage adapted from: 5ku Station<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For a dish to share, order a mango salad (VND169,000, ~USD7.32)<\/b> and wash it down with a bottle of Heineken or Tiger (VND24,000, ~USD1.04).\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 17 Thai Van Lung Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>5PM-11PM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b> <\/span>090 777 54 87
\n<\/span>5ku Station’s <\/span>Facebook page<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

9. Tokyo Moon – excellent cheesecakes and coffee<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Tokyo<\/span><\/p>\n

Enjoy delicious cheesecakes (VND70,000,~USD3.03)<\/strong> and tasty Earl Grey tea latte (VND55,000,~USD2.38)<\/strong> at<\/strong> Tokyo Moon<\/b>, a longstanding culinary icon of the neighborhood.<\/p>\n

Run by a Korean and Japanese couple, the bakery attracts both neighborhood residents and office workers nearby.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Tokyo<\/span><\/h4>\n

In fact, the fame of Tokyo Moon has spread far beyond Japan Town and draws a long queue of guests almost all day long.<\/span><\/p>\n

There\u2019s a lovely bench at the door for guests to wait for their turn in case the house is full.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 8A\/1C2 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>10AM-11PM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b><\/span> 090 392 3836<\/span>
\n<\/span>Tokyo Moon’s <\/span>Instagram<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

– Bars to visit in Saigon\u2019s Japan Town –<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

As the sun sets, hostess clubs are where Japanese salarymen who’ve just gotten off work and tourists gather for drinks in a lively setting with the attentive service of hostesses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"a<\/p>\n

Note:<\/strong> Don\u2019t get carried away and always check and confirm the prices before engaging in any service here.<\/span><\/p>\n

Always keep an eye on how much you\u2019re drinking and pace yourself, and remember that the hospitality here comes with many add-on prices – for example, switching to a different hostess midway through the night will incur you an extra cost.<\/p>\n

\n

1. Blues Bar – affordable beer and light snacks for cosy conversation<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Decorated with a charming blue noren,\u00a0<\/em>a traditional Japanese fabric cut with slits and often seen at the doors of traditional Japanese restaurants, and wood-bedecked walls, <\/span>Blues Bar<\/b> is one of the easiest bars to find in this dense alley. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"BLUES
\nImage adapted from: Blues Bar<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

This is one of the few bars that serves food alongside drinks. You\u2019ll find Japanese light appetisers such as wonton<\/em> soup (VND49,000,~USD2.12)<\/b>, sushi, and draft beer from only VND40,000 (~USD1.73) <\/b>per bottle.<\/p>\n

\"BLUES
\nImage credit: Blues Bar<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you want a fuss-free and cosy place to just hang out with your friends in the evening, this is the place to be.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span>15B\/14 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\nOpening hours:<\/span> <\/b>7PM-2AM, Daily
\nTelephone:<\/strong> <\/span>083 822 9665
\n<\/span>Blues Bar’s <\/span>website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

2. IDOL Bar – aesthetically pleasing cocktails and charming hostesses<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: IDOL BAR<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Small, cosy, and steeped in romantic neon lights, IDOL Bar <\/b>is a popular go-to hostess club among Japanese salarymen in the area.<\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>IDOL BAR<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Aside from a good range of beautifully crafted cocktails, IDOL BAR also has a team of hostesses who can communicate fluently in both English and Japanese.<\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: @idolbar.hcmc<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With Japanese-inspired makeup and outfits, with the ability to entertain guests in Japanese to boot, these ladies look like the JPOP idols you\u2019d see on TV.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>15B\/64 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>7PM-2AM, Daily
\nTelephone:<\/strong> <\/span>094 3719 748
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

3. MIE Bar – suitable for business meetings<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>MIE BAR<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While it may be a strange concept in Western culture, entertaining business guests at hostess bars is quite common in Japanese and Vietnamese culture.<\/p>\n

If you are looking for an elegant place to host a round of business meetings with the care of charming hostesses, check out <\/span>MIE Bar.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: @huynh_my_94\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Compared to other hostess clubs, MIE Bar boasts a bigger space, more debonair designs, and chic racks stacked with expensive wine, making it quite suitable for business meetings.<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>15B\/51 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>7PM-2AM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b> <\/span>090 800 52 24
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

4. Yossy Golf Bar – indoor golf experience<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: Akitoshi Suzuki<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Golf is a popular sport in Japan and a hobby among Japanese businessmen in their leisure time. However, traveling all the way to a golf course to unwind after a long day of work is not convenient for many.<\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage credit: HT NiNi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

To make the most of your leisure time, you can have fun completing a challenge with a golf club right inside Yossy Restaurant and Golf Bar<\/b>,<\/span> where visitors can play virtual golf while having a drink and being cheered on by hostesses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yossy Restaurant and Golf Bar is equipped with a simulator that accurately measures the shots and analyzes the spins as well as the distance of each ball.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: Shin-ichi Fukuyama<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For a birdie, eagle, or hole-in-one, you\u2019ll be rewarded with discounts off your drinks.<\/p>\n

The bar also has a small golf shop that sells a variety of golf equipment, such as golf bags, golf clubs, and golf balls.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 8A\/H3 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>7PM-1AM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b> <\/span>0911 827 270
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

5. Samurai Bar – warm lighting and bilingual hostesses<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: Samurai Bar<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for conversation and karaoke on top of drinking, drop by <\/span>Samurai Bar. <\/b>Decorated with Japanese calligraphy paintings, yellow lanterns that ooze warm light, and a wide selection of wine stacked on the shelves, this is a posh place to unwind.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Samurai Bar<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also be greeted by a team of beautiful bilingual hostesses, who will be your drinking companions and listen to whatever it is that you want to get off your chest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Remember that their job is to get you to drink as much as you can because they earn a commission off per bottle that you drink, so unless you bring enough money for at least a champagne call, don\u2019t check in.<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 15B\/19 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>7PM-1.30AM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b> 070 397 0608
\n<\/span><\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

6. DARTS BAR Jammin Saigon<\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"DARTS
\nImage credit: DARTS BAR Jammin saigon<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If hostess bars are not your cup of tea, check out DARTS BAR Jammin Saigon <\/b>to keep yourself entertained all night long.<\/p>\n

This place is suitable for visitors of all genders and ages, so don\u2019t hesitate to bring your family along.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"DARTS
\nImage credit: DARTS BAR Jammin saigon<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

On top of drinking here, you can challenge yourself or your friends to an exciting round of dart games.<\/p>\n

\"DARTS
\nImage credit: DARTS BAR Jammin saigon<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Address:<\/b><\/span> 8A\/A19 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
\nOpening hours: <\/b><\/span>6PM-2AM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b><\/span> 81 777 7200
\n<\/span>Website
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

A note on Japan Town bars<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

What these bars have in common is that their entrances are carefully designed in such a way that reveal no glimpses of what is going on behind the doors. To ensure that the identities of clients and hostesses are protected, all activities inside the bars are as inconspicuous as possible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

While there are countless hostess bars inside the area, only a handful of them disclose their menu prices upfront. Visitors can find common beverages such as beers and cocktails in the range of <\/span>VND100,000 to VND1,000,000 (~USD4.32-USD43.23) each<\/b>, but seldom is it that anyone comes to these bars just to have a beer and go home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s an understated rule that men walking into hostess bars in Japan Town look for the company of hostesses, besides having drinks to chill the day away. However, if you\u2019re new in the area and accidentally checking in a bar just to have a drink all by yourself, you\u2019ll soon be approached by the ladies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All hostesses earn their pay based on commissions, which completely depends on the generosity of their clients, so the figure on the bill is hardly stated or fixed at the beginning. Therefore, it\u2019s hard to predict how much a client has to pay for the service of a hostess.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"sakura<\/p>\n

According to S.F.H, a regular at many hostess bars in the area, a group of 3 male clients can expect a total bill of <\/span>VND6,000,000 to VND8,000,000 (~USD259.36-USD345.81)<\/b>, including payments for the drinks and compulsory tips for the services of the ladies. You can have all sorts of flirty conversations you want, but remember that paid sexual activities are prohibited in Japan Town.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Every client can switch ladies for a change of atmosphere. For every change of lady, the bill increases. For clients for whom money is not an issue, the bill can shoot up to thousands of dollars, especially if they make a fancy champagne call.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Spas in Saigon\u2019s Japan Town<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Japan<\/p>\n

Spas,<\/b> where visitors can get relaxing massages under the care of attentive therapists,\u00a0are now a staple of Japan Town, and are easily found all over the Le Thanh Ton and Thai Van Lung area.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On both the main streets and inside the alleyways, you\u2019ll find plenty of spas that cater to the needs of local residents, office staff looking for a rejuvenating massage during their lunch hour, or tourists who need a break from their walking tours.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

1. Ashikata Honpo – Japanese-style spa<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"ASHIKATA
\nImage credit: Ashikata Honpo<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Packed with a team of professional masseuses and a Japanese massage expert, Ashikata Honpo<\/b> is one of the few places in the city that offers massage services in the same style you’d find in Japan’s spas.<\/p>\n

\"ASHIKATA
\nImage adapted from: <\/span><\/em>TripAdvisor\/supika h <\/span><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

At Ashikata Honpo, you\u2019ll find different types of treatments, from the <\/span>30-minute express massage (from VND180,000,~USD7.78<\/b>) for those who are short on time to the holistic <\/span>90-minute Shiatsu massage package (from VND520,000,~USD22.48)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For those with nagging pains who\u2019re looking for a treatment to restore their energy and expedite the body\u2019s self-healing process, go for the traditional Shiatsu treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

During a Shiatsu massage, the therapist will stretch your whole body carefully, so expect to feel sore a day or two after the massage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rest assured that the receptionist speaks both English and Japanese, and thus can cater to customers comfortable in either language.<\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>8A\/4D1 <\/span>Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
\n<\/span>Opening hours: <\/b><\/span>10AM-12AM, Daily
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b><\/span> 00<\/span>84 908 692 877 I 0084 28 6299 0914
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

2. Saigon Hot Spring – only VND500,000 (~USD21.61) for a group of 4<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"SAIGON
\nImage credit: Google\/Saigon Hot Spring<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

When it comes to unwinding in a Japanese-themed onsen<\/em> spa in Saigon, <\/span>Saigon Hot Spring<\/b> is second to none.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"SAIGON
\nImage credit: Saigon Hot Spring<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Decked out with well-equipped sauna rooms, nap rooms, and private hot water springs for female and male guests, Saigon Hot Spring is the perfect place for a comforting spacation.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"SAIGON
\nImage credit: Saigon Hot Spring<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The admission fee costs VND160,000 (~USD6.92)<\/b> per male guest for use of the public saunas and baths. Meanwhile, female guests will need to book a private hot spring room and sauna room for a group of at most four people, which costs VND500,000 (~USD21.61) for 2 hours<\/b>.<\/p>\n

\"SAIGON
\nImage credit: Saigon Hot Spring<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

After warming up your body in the springs, come down to the bar and try out the house\u2019s myriad of drinks and snacks, from<\/span> tea (VND50,000,~USD2.16) <\/b>to <\/span>tiramisu (VND60,000,~USD2.59)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Address:<\/span> <\/b>8A\/1c1 Thai Van Lung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
\n<\/span>Opening hours:<\/span> <\/b>Mon\u2013Fri 10AM-3PM & 5PM-12AM | Sat & Sun 10AM-12AM
\n<\/span>Telephone:<\/b> <\/span>084 944 8222
\n<\/span>Website<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

\n

3. Genki Spa – including traditional Thai massages<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"GENKI
\nImage credit: GenkiSpa<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With branches on the main streets of both Le Thanh Ton and Thai Van Lung, Genki Spa<\/strong> is one of the most established day spas in the area.<\/p>\n

\"GENKI
\nImage credit: GenkiSpa<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The spa offers different relaxing treatments, such as muscle-relaxing herbal ball compression <\/span>(from VND450,000, ~USD19.45)<\/b>, sleep-boosting aromatherapy (<\/span>from VND300,000,~USD12.97)<\/b>, and stress-alleviating foot reflexology <\/span>(from VND250,000,~USD10.81)<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"GENKI
\nImage credit: GenkiSpa<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For those who prefer a more energetic massage, try Thai traditional massage (from VND400,000,~USD17.29)<\/strong>. During this massage, a therapist will stretch your body and apply muscle compression on top of giving you just a regular massage, which helps relieve joint pains and energize your mind and body.<\/p>\n

Home call massage services are also available.<\/p>\n

Address:\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n