District 1, HCMC: Location Features, Area, and Population
District 1 is known as the premier administrative, economic, cultural and tourism center of Ho Chi Minh City. It is often described as a vibrant mosaic, blending the ancient charm of historical architectural landmarks with the modernity of towering skyscrapers. Additionally, District 1 is renowned for having one of the highest living standards in Saigon, making it an ideal place for city residents to live and work.
Table of Contents
I – Administrative Characteristics of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
District 1 is one of the central districts of Ho Chi Minh City. It houses many of the city’s key administrative and governmental agencies, as well as various foreign consulates. Additionally, District 1 is regarded as a bustling area with one of the highest living costs in Ho Chi Minh City in every aspect.
The district covers an area of 7.72 km², with a population of 225,780 people as of 2019 and a population density of 29,246 people/km².
| District Name | District 1 |
|---|---|
| City | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Region | Southeast Region |
| Establishment | March 27, 1959 |
| Administrative Code | 760 |
| Administrative Divisions | 10 wards |
| People’s Committee Headquarters | 47 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| Area | 7.72 km² |
| Population (2022) | 225,780 people |
| Population Density | 29,246 people/km² |
| Vehicle Registration Plates | 59-T1-T2-TA |
| Website | quan1.hochiminhcity.gov.vn |
1. Formation History
District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City has a long-established history, closely associated with many historical ups and downs. In 1861, the French authorities established the city of Saigon, with its initial administrative boundaries including part of what is now District 1. At that time, District 1 was considered the political, administrative, commercial center for the French and therefore saw rapid investment and development in infrastructure.
In September 1889, Saigon was divided into two police districts: District 1 and District 2. By 1951, District 1 referred to an area within the Saigon – Cho Lon metropolis.
In 1975, the city of Saigon – Gia Định was established. The administrative structure of Saigon – Gia Định was reorganized in 1976, merging the former District 1 and District 2 into what is now District 1. At that time, District 1 was divided into 25 wards, numbered from 1 to 25.
In December 1988, the wards of District 1 were reorganized and replaced by 10 wards with names, including: Da Kao, Ben Nghe, Tan Dinh, Nguyen Thai Binh, Cau Kho, Pham Ngu Lao, Co Giang, Ben Thanh, Cau Ong Lanh, Nguyen Cu Trinh.
After more than 65 years of formation and development, District 1 has now become the leading commercial, financial, economic and tourism center of the city. It is distinguished by modern infrastructure and numerous skyscrapers, while still preserving the rich cultural and historical values of Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Geographic Location
District 1 is one of the central districts of Ho Chi Minh City, with geographical boundaries as follows:
– To the east, it borders Thu Duc City (with the Saigon River as the boundary).
– To the west, it borders District 3 (with Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street and Hai Ba Trung Street as the boundaries) and District 5 (with Nguyen Van Cu Street as the boundary).
– To the south, it borders District 4 (with the Ben Nghe Canal as the boundary).
– To the north, it borders Binh Thanh District and Phu Nhuan District (with the Nhieu Loc – Thi Nghe Canal as the boundary).
3. Area of District 1
District 1 covers an area of 7.721 km², accounting for 0.35% of the city’s total area, with waterways making up 8.1% and over 20% of the area dedicated to construction.
Despite being one of the smallest districts in Ho Chi Minh City, it is home to numerous key administrative and governmental agencies. District 1 is also famous for its array of modern skyscrapers, the most prominent of which is the Bitexco Financial Tower, a symbol of development for the area and Ho Chi Minh City as a whole.
4. Population of District 1
District 1 has a total population of 225,780 people (as of 2022), with a population density of approximately 29,246 people/km². Despite its relatively modest size, the district’s population density is quite high three times that of Thu Duc City and nearly nine times that of Nha Be District.
5. Wards of District 1 Ho Chi Minh
District 1 currently has 10 administrative units, including 10 wards: Ben Thanh, Cau Ong Lanh, Co Giang, Ben Nghe, Da Kao, Cau Kho, Pham Ngu Lao, Nguyen Cu Trinh, Tan Dinh and Nguyen Thai Binh .
LIST OF WARDS IN DISTRICT 1, HCMC
| No. | Ward Name | Area (km²) | Population (people) | Density (people/km²) | Postal Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ben Thanh Ward | 0.93 | 11,747 | 12,631 | 71009 |
| 2 | Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 0.23 | 10,527 | 45,770 | 71011 |
| 3 | Co Giang Ward | 0.36 | 11,574 | 32,150 | 71013 |
| 4 | Ben Nghe Ward | 2.48 | 11,454 | 4,619 | 71006 |
| 5 | Cau Kho Ward | 0.34 | 13,686 | 40,253 | 71015 |
| 6 | Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward | 0.77 | 20,878 | 27,114 | 71014 |
| 7 | Nguyen Thai Binh Ward | 0.49 | 9,908 | 20,220 | 71010 |
| 8 | Da Kao Ward | 0.63 | 14,673 | 23,290 | 71007 |
| 9 | Tan Dinh Ward | 0.63 | 22,238 | 35,298 | 71008 |
| 10 | Pham Ngu Lao Ward | 0.50 | 15,017 | 30,034 | 71012 |
The headquarters of the People’s Committee and important administrative agencies of the district are mostly located in Ben Nghe ward. This is also known as the largest administrative unit in District 1.
6. Major Roads in District 1
District 1 is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of the city, featuring a dense network of roads and a high volume of traffic. Below is a list of major roads in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City:
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II – Exploring Attractions in District 1
1. Famous Tourist Landmarks in District 1
District 1 not only attracts visitors with its modern and vibrant lifestyle but also with its renowned tourist landmarks rich in historical and cultural significance. From ancient architectural structures to bustling shopping and entertainment areas, every corner of District 1 promises unique and unforgettable experiences for visitors. Here are a few ideal destinations you should not miss when visiting District 1, Saigon:
– Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: This is one of the city’s most iconic structures, impressing visitors with its unique and artistic architecture. The church was built in 1880, designed by French architect J. Bourard. Upon entering, visitors will be amazed by the beauty of the sanctuary, the bell towers and many valuable historical artifacts that carry significant historical meaning.
– Ben Thanh Market:
Located in the heart of District 1, Ben Thanh Market is considered a symbol of the city, attracting visitors with its unique architecture and bustling atmosphere, offering a wide variety of goods. It is also known as one of the oldest and most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, originally built in 1859. At Ben Thanh Market, visitors can find almost anything, from clothing, accessories, handicrafts to fresh produce and traditional Vietnamese street food.
– Independence Palace:
The Independence Palace is a national historical monument, once known as the residence and workplace of the President of the Republic of Vietnam before 1975. This structure was built in 1868 in the French architectural style, covering an area of over 12,000 m². It also houses many valuable historical artifacts, the most notable of which is Tank 390, which crashed through the gates of the Independence Palace on April 30, 1975.
– Bach Dang Wharf:
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Saigon River, Bach Dang Wharf marks the site of many heroic victories in Vietnamese history against foreign invaders. Today, Bach Dang Wharf has been developed into a modern tourism and entertainment destination. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Saigon River from this location or take part in riverboat tours to see the city’s beauty from a different perspective.
2. Universities in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
When mentioning District 1, people often think of famous tourist attractions or bustling, lively streets. However, few are aware that this area is also a significant educational hub in the city, home to many prestigious and high-quality universities.
LIST OF UNIVERSITIES IN DISTRICT 1
| No. | University Name | Address | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City | 196 Tran Quang Khai, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus D |
| 54 Nguyen Van Thu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus E | ||
| 2 | University of Social Sciences and Humanities (VNU-HCM) | 10 – 12 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus 1 |
| 3 | Banking University of Ho Chi Minh City | 36 Ton That Dam, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, HCMC | Main Campus |
| 39 Ham Nghi, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, HCMC | High-Quality & International Linkages Campus | ||
| 4 | Saigon University | 4 Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus 2 |
| 5 | Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music | 112 Nguyen Du, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, HCMC | Main Campus |
| 6 | University of Theatre and Cinema Ho Chi Minh City | 125 Cong Quynh, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, HCMC | Main Campus |
| 7 | University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City | 41 – 43 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC | Faculty of Pharmacy |
| 8 | University of Economics and Law (VNU-HCM) | 45 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC | International Linkage and Postgraduate Training Campus |
| 9 | Ho Chi Minh City Open University | 35–37 Ho Hao Hon, Co Giang Ward, District 1, HCMC | Main Campus |
| 02 Mai Thi Luu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC | Training Campus | ||
| 10 | Van Lang University | 45 Nguyen Khac Nhu, Co Giang Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus 1 |
| 11 | Hoa Sen University | 8 Nguyen Van Trang, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, HCMC | Main Campus |
| 12 | Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (HCMC branch) | 11 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC | Campus 1 |
3. Consulates in District 1
District 1 is also home to numerous consulates from countries around the world, playing a crucial role in promoting exchange and cooperation between Vietnam and its international partners.
LIST OF CONSULATES IN DISTRICT 1
| No. | Country | Consulate Address |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States | 4 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 2 | United Kingdom | 25 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 3 | Netherlands | 29 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 4 | Germany | 4th Floor, Deutsches Haus, 33 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 5 | Singapore | 8th Floor, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 6 | Panama | 7 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 7 | Australia | 20th Floor, Vincom Center, 47 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 8 | New Zealand | Room 804, The Metropolitan, 235 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 9 | Canada | Room 1002, The Metropolitan, 235 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 10 | Laos | 93 Pasteur, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 11 | Finland | Room 501, Sailing Tower, 111A Pasteur, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 12 | Italy | 10th Floor, President Place, 93 Nguyen Du, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 13 | South Korea | 107 Nguyen Du, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 14 | Norway | Somerset Chancellor Court Ho Chi Minh City, 21 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 15 | France | 27 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 16 | Switzerland | 37th Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 17 | Indonesia | 18 Phung Khac Khoan, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 18 | Hungary | 22 Phung Khac Khoan, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 19 | Kuwait | 24 Phung Khac Khoan, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 20 | Cambodia | 41 Phung Khac Khoan, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC |
| 21 | Cuba | 45 Phung Khac Khoan, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC |
4. Famous Buildings in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
District 1 is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, featuring numerous bustling streets and well-developed infrastructure. This area is particularly thriving with modern skyscraper projects, offering a diverse range of office rental options in District 1.
– Bitexco Financial Tower: Standing at a height of 262.5 meters, Bitexco Financial Tower is known as the tallest building in District 1 and the fourth tallest in Vietnam. Inspired by the design of a lotus flower, the tower features soft curves that gradually expand towards the top, symbolizing the city’s relentless rise and development. Currently, Bitexco Financial Tower is a premier complex of economic, commercial, office projects in District 1, attracting many businesses and corporations to set up their headquarters.
Below are the prominent office buildings for lease in District 1, reflecting the city’s robust economic development:
| Toà nhà văn phòng Q1 |
Building address
|
| Deutsches Haus | 33 Le Duan, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| VPBank Saigon Tower | 3A Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| The Nexus Tower | 3B Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Bitexco Financial Tower | No. 02 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Saigon Centre 2 | 65 Le Loi, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Vietcombank Tower | 5 Me Linh Square, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Saigon Times Square | 22 – 36 Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Diamond Plaza | 34 Le Duan, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Mê Linh Point Tower | No. 02 Ngo Duc Ke, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
| Sunwah Tower | 115 Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe, District 1 |
If you are interested in offices for rent, immediately explore buildings in other districts in Ho Chi Minh City:
The above is all the information about District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, that Maison Office wishes to provide you. With its inherent potential and advantages, District 1 is poised for continued strong growth in the future, solidifying its position as a key economic, cultural and tourism hub of Ho Chi Minh City.
