This industrial city on the Saigon River houses major textile and cement factories. A former US airbase during the Vietnam War, it now serves as Dong Nai province's capital.
Bien Hoa, 30 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, is Vietnam's sixth-largest city and an industrial center. You can climb the stone steps of the 18th-century Tran Bien Literature Temple, walk through Vietnam's last remaining southern citadel, or paddle across the lake at Buu Long Park while limestone cliffs tower above you. In the evening, join locals for dinner at one of the many restaurants along the Dong Nai River.
Getting to Bien Hoa
You can reach Bien Hoa from Ho Chi Minh City by taking National Route 1, with regular bus services running between the two cities. The Bien Hoa railway station connects to the North-South railway line, making it accessible from other major Vietnamese cities. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City typically takes about 45 minutes by car or one hour by bus.
Parks and Recreation
At Buu Long Park, you'll find swan-shaped paddle boats available for rent on the lake. White limestone cliffs rise 50 meters above the water, creating natural walls around the park's paths. The Dong Nai River runs through the city center, where waterfront restaurants serve local specialties like banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and com tam (broken rice with grilled pork).
Modern City Development
Several new buildings have changed Bien Hoa's appearance in recent years. The Universe Complex Dynamic reaches 35 stories into the sky, while the twin towers of Pegasus Plaza contain shops and offices. The Mira Central Park Hotel and Sonadezi Building have added to the number of high-rises in the city center.
Historical Sites
The Ancient Citadel of Bien Hoa is the only preserved fortress remaining in Southern Vietnam, with thick stone walls dating back to the 1700s. At the Tran Bien Literature Temple, you can see carved wooden pillars and ceremonial gates from the 18th century. The Nguyen Huu Canh Temple contains artifacts and documents about the military leader who helped establish Vietnamese control in the south during the 1690s.
Industrial Zones
Six major industrial zones make up much of Bien Hoa's economy, including Bien Hoa I, the country's first industrial park. The Amata Industrial Park covers 674 hectares and contains factories producing electronics, textiles, and construction materials. These industrial areas employ thousands of workers and have brought significant economic growth to the region.
Environmental Recovery
A major environmental project began in 2019 to clean up dioxin contamination from the former air base. The USAID-led initiative will take ten years to complete and aims to restore affected areas and create new public spaces. The project has already transformed Gate 2 Lake into a public park where you can walk, exercise, or relax on benches near the water.
