The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a place that preserves and displays many images, documents, and artifacts that remind us of the painful war of invasion in Vietnam.
Where is the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City?
- Location: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
As an important cultural landmark, visiting the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is not just for an educational purpose but also an emotional journey that fosters reflection and a deeper appreciation for peace.
The War Remnants Museums’ collection of heavy weapons | Source: War Remnants Museum
- Ticket price: 40,000 VND/person/time
- Free admission: children under 6 years old, disabled people, poor households
50% discount on tickets to the War Remnants Museum: children from 6 to under 16 years old, students, seniors, people with revolutionary contributions, people in mountainous areas, remote areas…
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (The ticket counter closes at 5:30 pm)
What is incredible is that the War Remnants Museum is open everyday, including Tet and other holidays.
The Background of War Remnants Museum
It was originally called the “Exhibition House for Crimes of War and Aggression” when it was established on September 4, 1975. Since then, its emphasis has shifted to promoting world peace and educating and enlightening people about the negative effects of conflict.
Photo of the moment when Liberation Army tanks captured the Independence Palace by journalist Tran Mai Huong.
Attracting around one million visitors a year, the museum is one of the most significant cultural icons in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring nine permanent thematic exhibitions and year-round special events.
In total, of the 3,375 UH-1Hs sent to Vietnam, 1,285 were shot down | Source: War Remnants Museum.
Additionally, the museum also works with organizations like the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to improve exhibits that emphasize initiatives to address war legacies like landmine clearance and supporting victims of Agent Orange.
Path Through the War Remnants Museum – Exhibits and Highlights
Regarding the permanent exhibition space, the museum introduces more than 1,500 documents and artifacts according to the topics in each area.
Map of the War Remnants Museum for each space | Source: War Remnants Museum.
1. Open-air Exhibition: Witness Powerful Military Relics
The open-air exhibition at the War Remnants Museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts, offering an up-close look at the formidable machinery used during the Vietnam War.
This collection includes iconic tanks, fighter jets, helicopters, and artillery pieces that played key roles in the conflict. Among the highlights are U.S. military aircraft like the F-5 fighter jet and the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, as well as powerful artillery such as howitzers and anti-aircraft guns.
The multi-purpose heavy transport CH-47 Chinook helicopter | Source: War Remnants Museum
Each relic has a detailed description. It helps visitors understand the technology and its impact during the war. This outdoor display vividly reminds us of the Vietnam War’s scale and intensity. It offers a chance to reflect on the past and appreciate the museum’s efforts to preserve these artifacts.
2. Indoor Exhibits: Stories of Conflict and Resilience
I. Recreated Prison Cells
Step into history with lifelike replicas of wartime incarceration methods, offering a stark look at the harsh realities faced by prisoners. Start with Room #12 Imprisonment System during the Vietnam War (Ground Floor).
- Suggested Visit Time: 15–20 minutes
- This section recreates the harsh environment of wartime prisons, which can feel intense or overwhelming for some visitors.
The guillotine was widely used by the French colonialists, brought to many places to terrorize patriots. | Source: War Remnants Museum
II. The Crimes of American Soldiers
View gripping photographic galleries that document war crimes and personal stories, shedding light on the human side of the conflict.
Visitors are looking through weapons and the consequences of war | Source: Lao Động Media
Room #6: War Crimes
- Suggested Visit Time: 25–30 minutes
- Highlight the terrible crimes and painful consequences of the war on the country and people of Vietnam.
Room #7: Agent Orange Effects
- Suggested Visit Time: 15–20 minutes
- This section shows the harsh consequences of Agent Orange, so be prepared for an emotional experience.
Room #8: Agent Orange Consequences through Children’s Paintings
- Suggested Visit Time: 10–15 minutes
- These galleries highlight heartbreaking stories and devastating legacies of the war.
III. War Through The Lens
Understand the devastating human and environmental toll of chemical warfare through vivid exhibits.
Visitors are looking through the devastating photo collection of war | Source: Lao Động Media
Room #2: Requiem (Photo Collection by War Correspondents)
- Suggested Visit Time: 10 minutes
- Reveals the suffering brought on by foreign armies’ conflicts in Vietnam and delivers a message of blood and tears.
Room #3: Vietnam – War and Peace (Photo Collection by Japanese Photographer Ishikawa Bunyo)
- Suggested Visit Time: 10 minutes
- The collection provides an insight into wartime life, as well as the efforts towards peace of the Vietnamese people.
Room #4: Agent Orange during the Vietnam War (Photo Collection by Japanese Photographer Goro Nakamura)
- Suggested Visit Time: 10 minutes
- The collection features several photos revealing Agent Orange effects not only Vietnamese victims but also American and Korean victims.
A visit to the War Remnants Museum offers more than just an insight into Vietnam’s history—it’s an opportunity to connect with the resilience of its people and understand the profound effects of war.
The museum plays a vital role in fostering dialogue, learning, and reflection, encouraging visitors to advocate peace and empathy in a world still grappling with conflict.
The War Remnants Museum is one of the highly attractive cultural tourist destinations, trusted by the public at home and abroad. | Source: Thanh Nien VN.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this museum is an essential stop that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s journey and its hope for a better future.
>>> Read more: History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City Guide
Enhance Your Visit: Tips for a Memorable Experience
To make the most of your Ho Chi Minh City adventure, here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth, enriching, and unforgettable experience.
- Best Times to Visit: Plan your visit in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays to avoid the busiest hours and large crowds, especially during weekends and public holidays.
- Recommended Duration: Allocate 1.5–2 hours to fully explore the museum’s exhibits, giving yourself time to read captions and absorb the powerful stories behind the artifacts.
- Tips for Families or Sensitive Viewers:
- Some exhibits contain intense and emotional content that may not be suitable for young children or sensitive individuals.
- Families can focus on less graphic areas like the open-air exhibition or children’s art galleries for a lighter experience.
- Consider taking breaks between exhibits to reflect or process the information at your own pace.
>>> Read more: Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City in 2025
Explore Nearby Cultural and Historic Gems
After immersing yourself in the museum’s exhibits, step outside and continue your journey through the rich history of District 3. Just a short walk away, marvel at iconic architectural landmarks like the Saigon Central Post Office and the Independence Palace, both stunning reminders of the city’s colonial past.
Our guides in traditional áo dài in front of Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic Central Post Office, ready to welcome visitors.
As you explore, let your curiosity lead you into the bustling local dining scene. From cozy cafes to vibrant street food stalls, District 3 offers the perfect opportunity to unwind with authentic Vietnamese flavors and experience the city’s culinary charm.
Customers go on the Kiss City Tour, and enjoy both historical and cultural aspects of Saigon | Source: Dave Derkowski – one of our kindly customers.
However, for a deeper dive into Saigon’s history and culture, round out your day with a Kiss City Tour. This immersive experience, led by knowledgeable guides, uncovers hidden gems and shares captivating stories that bring the city’s vibrant past to life. It’s the perfect way to enhance your visit and create lasting memories.
