Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum

Every city has its own tale to tell and for Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), it always revolves around years of war it went through. Everywhere you go, chances are you will see some leftovers of war in your surroundings. The military aircraft and tank in the Independence Palace. The French architectural influences availably seen in the old buildings, for example, the Ben Thanh market, Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office, caused by years under the conquer of France. The War Remnants Museum with its exhibitions of the aftermaths due to Vietnam War.

War Remnants Museum

Everyone knows the terrors of wars but there is nothing as effective in showcasing it better than the War Remnants Museum for the museum serves as a constant reminder of the brutal horror the Vietnamese went through over the past few decades. This museum is indeed the best place to learn about Vietnam War and how their lives were changed due to the war.

However, you should be warned that most of the exhibitions here are not meant for the weak of hearts. Do not be fooled by its modern structure or the military vehicles on display within its walled court to think that it is just another museum cashing in on the country's horrific history.

Some of the machineries employed during Vietnam War

Photos of demonstrations against Vietnam War held around the world

Inside the building, exhibitions ranging from heart-wrenching photos of wasted lives and suffering victims to deformed children due to the chemical bombs released onto the country during the war to weaponries used by the militants will both invoke sadness and fury. Sadness to see such unnecessary sacrificial of lives and anger over the manipulative and greedy politicians that allowed such crimes to happen in the first place.

Gas masks used by soldiers to protect themselves from toxic exposures

Innocent lives shattered due to Agent Orange used in the war

Many lives were sacrificed, all because of human greed for control

War is nothing but a tool of oppression of human right

Yet, not all of the exhibitions are sombre for some offers promises of a better tomorrow and glimpses of hope. That  the humanity spirit will triumph in the end for even with the dark past, Vietnam is still able to overcome it and moves towards a brighter future. Its people are still friendly and kind when they are not expected to be anything but grim and bitter. This, in itself, a victory of life.

Vietnamese cities rebuild itself after the war, better and stronger, just like its peoples

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Sharing is caring. A word of advice and a piece of information.

War Remnants Museum opens from 7.30 am to 5.00 pm with lunch break at 12.00 pm till 1.30 pm. The entrance fee is VND 15,000 per person. Be warned though that there are many photos of deformed children and deaths at the exhibitions. It might not be suitable for pregnant women and those of weaker hearts.