War Remnants Museum

Established in 1975, in what was once an American administration building, this museum documents the ravages of Vietnam's wars with both France and America, although the vast majority of displays focus on the latter.Formerly known as the Museum of US and Puppet War Crimes, it changed its name to the War Remnants Museum in 1993, following improved diplomatic relations with America.Originally opened 5 months after the end of the Vietnam War, the museum courts controversy with what some regard as a one-sided account of the war with America. However, a number of the harrowing displays, graphic imagery, prison cells and weaponry exhibits show the horrifying effects of war on all sides.A visit to the War Remnants Museum is a truly haunting experience. Documented evidence of the effect of Agent Orange and Napalm bombs on the Vietnamese people makes for particularly chilling viewing. On the top floor, Japanese war photographer Bunyo Ishikawa, who documented the Vietnam War as it happened, exhibits an incredible selection of photographs. Over 250 photographs detail the conflict as experienced by both soldiers and civilians.Be warned, this museum is most definitely not for the faint of heart or the weak of stomach, and some of the displays are completely unsuitable for children. In the walled courtyard, however, you will find planes, tanks, helicopters and disarmed weaponry that may be of interest to younger visitors.Despite its gruesome reputation, the War Remnants Museum is one of Ho Chi Minh's most visited attractions, receiving over half a million visitors every year. It is open to the public every day.