Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line 1: A Great Revolution

Since its official opening on December 22, the first metro line of Ho Chi Minh City, which connects Ben Thanh to Suoi Tien, has attracted significant attention from travelers. In just a few days, this metro line has demonstrated its vital role in meeting the transportation needs of both locals and visitors. With its mobility, convenience, modern design, and eco-friendliness, this new public transport option is transforming the way people explore the city.

A promising start for a new experience

The inauguration of HCMC Metro Line 1 marks a significant turning point in Ho Chi Minh City’s urban landscape. Completely free of charge for a month,  the metro attracts a huge number of passengers from the very first days of operation. More than 175,000 people used the line on December 28, a sharp increase of 450% on forecasts. Among the first passengers on HCMC Line 1, there were two special passengers: 76-year-old Jeff Thomas and his younger brother Mark. These two former American soldiers, who took part in the Resistance War against America in the 1970s, have returned to live out their retirement in the country that marked their youth.

Thinking back to Saigon in 1970, Jeff recalls a story with a touch of nostalgia: “Back then, the city was a sea of bicycles. Motorcycles were rare, almost a luxury. Today, everything has changed: skyscrapers are rising everywhere, and people are radiating happiness.” The contrast between the Saigon of yesteryear and the modern metropolis that is Ho Chi Minh City nowadays is striking for Jeff,  who observes the progress made with admiration. 

After years spent in the United States, the two brothers chose to return to Vietnam, driven by the human warmth and vitality of the country. For them, the inauguration of Metro Line 1 is a powerful symbol of the city's rapid and sustainable development. To these two veterans, traveling on the metro is not just a means of transport but a real plunge into the history and future of Vietnam in the throes of change.

Meanwhile, Lucia, a visitor from Spain, discovered the metro spontaneously. During her visit over the festive season, Lucia and her friend were intrigued by the maps displayed at Ben Thanh station.

Thinking that all the lines indicated were already operational, they took a while to adapt before realizing that only one line worked. Lucia says: “We chose to take the metro to Thao Dien, a vibrant district recommended for foreign travelers. It was a nice surprise.”

A convenient transport that allows immersive experiences 

The introduction of this new metro offers a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying fast, affordable transportation.

Simple and easy 

With only one line currently in service, it's easy for tourists to find their way around, especially thanks to digital tools like Google Maps.

Affordable 

The metro ticket price ranges from 6,000 to 20,000 VND, which is significantly lower than other major Asian cities’ metro tickets, such as Bangkok.

Close to tourist attractions

The stations connect with landmarks such as the Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Street, and Saigon's lively riverbanks. 

Annee and Christopher, a couple from France, shared that they loved their experience with the metro. Used to the Paris metro, they were pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness and efficiency of the Vietnamese metro. “Even with the large number of passengers, the metro line is still able to maintain professionalism and be well organized. Being able to use the metro for free during our stay was a real bonus," stated the couple. 

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A possible boost to tourism

In addition to its public transport role, the metro is also a real attraction. Rhoi Fajardo, an American traveler, was impressed by the panoramic views it offers of the city. He shared, "I lived in Ho Chi Minh City a few years ago and followed the construction of this project. The result exceeds my expectations, as much for its modernity as for its comfort.”    

From the perspective of local authorities, Metro Line 1 represents much more than just a means of transport. It symbolizes a major step towards sustainable tourism. By facilitating travel and reducing traffic jams, it considerably enhances the visitor experience. In recognition, travel agencies are now including the metro in their tourist itineraries.

Personalized travel program to explore the city from another perspective

Some agencies offer specially designed itineraries around the metro line. These tours allow visitors to discover iconic stations such as Long Bình, where they can learn more about train maintenance and behind-the-scenes metro operations.

An experience accessible to all

With its modern stations, clear signage, and affordable fares, HCMC Metro Line 1 offers a pleasant experience for all types of travelers; whether you're a history buff, a modernist, or simply curious about the daily life of the locals, this new means of transport is for you. Ho Chi Minh City is waiting for you to explore its many facets on board its first metro—an experience not to be missed! Whether you have been to the city or not, this is the time to visit the new Ho Chi Minh City, so don't wait any longer!

TOLUNHA

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