Secret Weapon Cellar
A hidden history of wartime Saigon.
4.6 ⭐ (100)
Introduction
Secret Weapon Cellar (Hầm Vũ Khí Bí Mật) is a historical site in a residential house in Ho Chi Minh City's District 3 that concealed a Viet Cong arsenal. Disguised as the home of a sympathizer, its small basement was instrumental in the Vietnam War, storing over two tons of weapons for the Saigon Commandos' attack on the Independence Palace during the 1968 Tet Offensive.
The Hidden Cellar Entrance
The main feature is the cellar itself, accessed through a cleverly disguised trapdoor in the living room floor. The small opening reveals a steep ladder leading down into the cramped space, demonstrating the secrecy required to operate undetected in the city center.
The Weapon Cache
The cellar is a compact, roughly 8-square-meter space where weapons were stored. Today, replicas of the original armaments, including AK-47 rifles, B-40 rocket launchers, grenades, and ammunition, are displayed to illustrate the sheer volume of firepower hidden beneath the house.
The Family Residence and Altar
The house is not a sterile museum; it is still occupied by the family of Mr. Trần Văn Lai, the commando who built it. The living area contains period furniture and an altar dedicated to the commandos who fought and died during the offensive, adding a deeply personal layer to the historical visit.
Getting there
From District 1 to Secret Weapon Cellar (approx. 2.5 km):
🚗 Taxi: 10-15 mins | 40,000 - 70,000 VND ~ $1.60 - $2.80 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 10-15 mins | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ~ $1.20 - $2.00 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 5-10 mins
🚶 Walking: 30-35 mins. The walk is manageable, but be prepared for the city's heat and humidity.
⚠️ The main challenge is locating the entrance. The address is 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, which means it is deep inside a narrow alley (hẻm). Tell the driver the address and be prepared to walk the final 50 meters down the alley.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Note: As this is a family home, hours can sometimes vary.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Adults: 15,000 VND ~ $0.60 USD
- Note: Tickets are purchased with cash directly from the family at the entrance.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the midday heat and the small chance of encountering another group in the very limited space. The dry season, from December to April, offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the city.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- A visit is typically very short. Allow for 15 to 30 minutes to see the cellar, view the exhibits, and speak with the family.
Tips from locals
Local tips
📍 The entrance at 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu is down a narrow alley. Look for the small, official "Di Tích Lịch Sử" (Historical Relic) sign to guide you from the main street, as it's easy to walk right past it.
🗣️ Take a moment to speak with the family members who live in the house. They are descendants of the original owner and their personal stories about the cellar's history provide context you won't find on any plaque.
👟 Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the main house, as is customary in Vietnamese homes. The steps down to the cellar are steep and more like a ladder, so watch your footing.
💡 Because a visit is very short, combine it with a trip to the nearby War Remnants Museum or Tan Dinh Church (the "pink church") to create a half-day itinerary focused on the area's history.
Be aware
⚠️ The cellar and the house itself are extremely small and can feel claustrophobic, especially if other visitors are present. It is not accessible for wheelchairs or people with significant mobility issues due to the steep, narrow ladder-like stairs.
🥵 There is no air conditioning inside the house or cellar, and it can get very warm and stuffy. Dress in light clothing and bring water, especially if you are visiting during the middle of the day.
FAQs
Where is the Secret Weapon Cellar located?
It is located at 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, deep inside a small alley off the main street.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee is 15,000 VND (about $0.60 USD) per person, paid in cash at the door.
What are the opening hours?
It is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours can occasionally vary as it is a private residence.
What is the history behind the cellar?
It was built between 1966-1967 by Viet Cong commando Trần Văn Lai to hide weapons for a surprise attack on the Independence Palace during the 1968 Tet Offensive.
Is the Secret Weapon Cellar worth visiting?
Yes, it is highly recommended for those interested in the history of the Vietnam War for an authentic, non-touristy glimpse into the life of Viet Cong commandos in Saigon.
How long does a visit take?
A visit is very quick, typically lasting only 15 to 30 minutes.
Is it suitable for children or people with claustrophobia?
Due to the extremely confined space and steep ladder, it is not recommended for young children, anyone with claustrophobia, or visitors with mobility challenges.
Do you need a guide?
A formal guide is not necessary. The family that lives in the house often provides explanations and stories about the site's history.
What was stored in the cellar?
Over two tons of weapons were stored there, including AK-47s, B40 rocket launchers, explosives, grenades, and pistols.
Can you go down into the cellar?
Yes, visitors are allowed to climb down the ladder into the cellar to see the space and the replica weapons on display.
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