How the Jews Came to Vietnam

 When you think about Jewish travel, perhaps, the first thought that pops in your mind would be backpacking in Spain, a cruise in France, or a visit to The Netherlands.

Did you know that Southeast Asia can also offer a one-of-a-kind Jewish experience?

Yes, you read that right! Southeast Asia, especially Vietnam, holds A bit of Jewish influence that awaits you in an all-new and exciting adventure. Let’s take a look at Vietnam and see how the Jews made their mark in the south east.

Mekomg River Vietnam

Early Jewish Presence in Vietnam

In the 19th Century, the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam, and during this period, people from the west visited the said territory. It was during this time that the first Jews arrived in Vietnam.

Most of the Jews came to Vietnam following the French occupation of the country. Saigon, a famous city in Vietnam, was frequently mentioned in some issues of The Jewish Chronicle, which proved the existence of a community in the 1860s and 1870s.

Trade was also one of the reasons behind the presence of the Jews in Vietnam. The Mekong River, which traverses all across Southeast Asia, was a busy trade route during that time.

The Jews during the Vietnam War

Several Jews who enlisted in the United States Army took part in the infamous Vietnam War.

During this time, several Jewish communities were also established temporarily in the southern part of Vietnam. When the war was over, some of them returned to America, while others stayed for good, and soon, started their own families in Vietnam.

Jews in Vietnam Today

In Ho Chi Minh City, the present day Jewish Community has its own Chabad House. There are about 150 Jews living in the capital of Vietnam alone.

To reminisce the experiences of the early Jewish traders in the region, try a tour in the Saigon River and enjoy its serene waters, or strike a pose by some well-preserved ancient bridges in Hoi An.

Who would have thought that Vietnam holds such an incredible fragment of Jewish history, thousands of miles from the heart of Jewish history?

Mekong River Kosher Cruise

Visit Vietnam for your next Kosher vacations! Hẹn gặp lại!