FITO museum

Overview

• Location: 41 Hoang Du Khuong, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: Daily 08:30 - 17:00 
• Entrance fee: 180,000 VND ( ~ US $7)

FITO Museum, also known as the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, is highly regarded for its dedication to preserving, documenting, and illuminating the intricate tapestry of Vietnam's traditional medical practices. Covering an area of 600m2, the museum has six floors with 18 rooms designed for displaying the exhibits.

The Document Display Corner About Traditional Medicines (Cre Vietnam Vnanet Vn)

Featuring over 3,000 artifacts dating back to the Stone Age, the museum's collection is exceptionally valuable. It has reconstructed a detailed model, meticulously crafted based on images, engravings, and artifacts, enabling viewers to envision the various activities of medical examination, treatment, preparation of medicine, and herbal decoction practiced by physicians from ancient eras to the present.

 

Things To See And Do When Visiting FITO Museum

Admire the architecture and take photos

The museum embodies a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements, showcasing the diverse cultural influences from various regions of Vietnam. Beyond its remarkable collection of artifacts, the museum's facade itself is a masterpiece, echoing the architectural styles of Northern Vietnam while incorporating elements of Hue and Cham architecture from Central Vietnam and Cambodia.

Catch A Glimpse Of The Cham Structure (Cre Vietnam Vnanet Vn)

Honor the ancestors and famous doctors of traditional medicine

The museum was devoted to Le Huu Trac and Tue Tinh – the fathers of Vietnamese traditional medicine. Hailing from Hai Duong, both individuals played pivotal roles in advancing traditional medicine within Vietnam. Besides, among the museum's exhibits is a remarkable wood-carved painting titled "Vietnam Bach Gia Y," showing a majestic tree with the names of 100 distinguished doctors, honored for their huge impact on Vietnamese traditional medicine.

The Hall For Worshiping Two Ancestors Of Traditional Medicines (Cre Vietnam Vnanet Vn)

Have a look at the collection of traditional medical tools and herbs

In the exhibition, visitors will encounter a variety of artifacts presenting instruments employed in medicine production, such as knives, grinders, pots, and jars, along with distinctive household items like scales, cabinets, teapots, and ceramics. Complementing these exhibits is a collection of stone pestles and mortars, which were used by ancient Vietnamese people to prepare medicine. Additionally, there's a gallery featuring a compilation of Sino-Nom medical texts and a detailed table listing names and descriptions of nearly 2,000 Vietnamese medicinal plants.

The Area Displaying Medicinal Plants (Cre Vietnam Vnanet Vn)

Participate in experiential activities

Visitors can engage in different activities to learn more about the methods of making Vietnamese traditional remedies such as cutting, grinding, and tasting the herbs. They will also receive medical consultations, where doctors provide detailed health assessments and treatment recommendations. Furthermore, a traditional medicine store within the building allows them to purchase herbs for themselves or their family members.

Experience The Process Of Making Oriental Remedies (Cre Vietnamdiscovery Com)

 

How To Get There

• By Taxi: Under the hot weather of the city, a taxi is one of the best ways to travel. Anticipate spending approximately US $1.4 to $4 for a one-way trip, with taxi fares varying depending on distance and traffic conditions.
• By Bus: If you are on a low budget trip, this is the best transportation for you. You can reach the museum by taking buses numbered 10, 13, 14, 65, or 91, all have stops nearby. Bus fares typically range from US $0.3 to $0.4 per person.
• By Cyclo: Enjoy the scenic ride along the streets of Ho Chi Minh City as you head to the museum. Cyclo fares vary but expect to pay around US $2 to $4 for a short trip.

 

Visit Nearby Attractions

Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral

Placed in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral stands out as a prominent Catholic cathedral in Vietnam. Constructed in the late 1800s, its notable red-brick facade and paired bell towers have become emblematic of the city. Tourists are attracted to its French colonial style and its role as a noteworthy religious and historical site in Ho Chi Minh City.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum primarily focuses on documenting the Vietnam War and its aftermath from a Vietnamese perspective. It displays various artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the war, including military equipment, weapons, and exhibits depicting the impact of Agent Orange and other chemical weapons. The entrance fee is about US $1.6 per person.

War Remnants Museum

Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien Street is a bustling walking street situated in the heart of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. The street is lined with bars, restaurants, street food vendors, and shops, offering visitors a diverse range of dining, entertainment, and shopping options. As a popular destination among both locals and tourists, this is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the vibrant spirit of Ho Chi Minh City.

Bui Vien Walking Street (Cre Localvietnam Com)

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels, located near Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, are an extensive network of underground tunnels that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. Stretching over 120 kilometers, these tunnels served as hiding spots, supply routes, living quarters, and communication channels for Viet Cong guerrilla fighters. Nowadays, this is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam's wartime history and the resilience of its people.

Cu Chi Tunnels (Cre Viator)

 

Local Tips When Exploring FITO Museum

• There are 2 private museums by Mr Tam, one is the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine and the other is the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Pharmacy in Binh Duong. You should pay attention to the address when finding FITO.
• Apart from the objects in glass cabinets, you can touch the artifacts freely. But please be careful when touching them.
• The drugstore will give you free diagnosis and medicine.
• The museum permits photography, but it's advisable to request permission beforehand to prevent any potential inconvenience. Doing so ensures a smoother visit and respects the museum's guidelines.