Long-abandoned land in downtown Ho Chi Minh City transformed into flower-filled park

Although it has yet to officially open, the site has drawn residents and tourists eager to stroll and take photos.

Work to complete the park at 8 Vo Van Tan Street in Xuan Hoa Ward, under the Phan Dinh Phung sports complex project, was still underway, with a lively and bustling atmosphere on Saturday afternoon.

The park was scheduled to be officially handed over and opened on Sunday afternoon to serve the public during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday.

However, large numbers of passersby and tourists have already stopped by out of curiosity to take photos and enjoy a walk over the past few days.

Inga, a tourist from Estonia, who has been traveling in Vietnam for two weeks, said she and her child were walking along Pasteur Street when they were drawn to the lively and visually striking scene at the park.

As such, she decided to step inside for a visit.

Upon learning that the park would soon officially open, she said she was excited to return with her child to check in and explore further.

Meanwhile, Phuc Hoa, a 21-year-old student at the University of Architecture-Ho Chi Minh City, and her group of friends took advantage of their free time after class to head to the park to explore the newly transformed space.

Pham Trong Hoa, construction advisor to the board of directors of Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corporation, the sponsor of the park renovation, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that pedestrian walkways, playground and exercise areas, along with the electrical and lighting systems had been completed.

“In addition, the landscape has been enhanced with various decorative features, including horse mascots symbolizing the upcoming Lunar New Year and star-shaped flower beds,” he said.

He added that the remaining work would focus on cleaning and final touch-ups to ensure the park is in the best possible condition to welcome Ho Chi Minh City residents and visitors during the Tet holiday.