1952 – The Milestone Of Vietnam’s First Self-Service Bookstore Model

In 1952, right on the bustling Bonard Boulevard (now Le Loi Street), Khai Tri Bookstore was founded, making its mark as the first self-service bookstore in Vietnam – a true revolution in the reading habits of Saigonese at the time.

Unlike the elegance of Xuan Thu Bookstore, which catered to the upper class, Khai Tri Bookstore felt more approachable, becoming a house of knowledge for people from all walks of life. Later, this journey was inherited and further developed by FAHASA, carrying the legacy to new heights.

After 1975 – Echoes Of Memory That Still Resonate

In 1975, as the city turned to a new chapter of history, Khai Tri Bookstore was taken over by Ho Chi Minh City Book Distribution Joint Stock Company (FAHASA) and renamed Saigon Bookstore, located at 60-62 Le Loi Street, District 1.

This building also became the headquarters of FAHASA, marking an important milestone in the formation and development of the brand. From then on, it was not only a place to buy books but also a familiar cultural space right on the bustling Le Loi Boulevard.

Over the decades, generations of readers have come here to buy textbooks, discover literary works, or simply enjoy the unique reading atmosphere of the city.

For the people of Saigon, this is a familiar meeting place; for international visitors, it is like a miniature window into Vietnamese culture.

In October 2014, FAHASA officially inaugurated the renovation and upgrade project of the building at 60-62 Le Loi – a new image, a new level.

On October 2, 2014, FAHASAcelebrated the grand opening of the renovated and upgraded 60-62 Le Loi building – both its headquarters and the Saigon Bookstore – in the joyful presence of a large community of readers.

With its modern and elegant European-inspired design, the project was not only an architectural renewal but also a revival of memories: the legacy of Khai Tri continued, stronger and more refined under FAHASA’s strategic vision.

Ancient Architecture – The Breath Of Memory

Saigon Bookstore carries a refined European style that is both modern and cozy, while preserving a touch of antiquity, creating a rich space of discovery for all ages.

• The stationery and school supplies section showcases a wide variety of products, from pens, pencil cases, and notebooks to convenient study and office items for students and professionals. The diverse book section introduces many genres: literature, self-help, reference, along with the familiar book collection of Nguyen Nhat Anh that has accompanied generations of readers. In addition, there is a foreign books area and a “New Arrivals” section that is always updated with the latest publications.

• The children and toys section brings a lively world of comic books, stuffed animals, model cars, and educational toys. The gifts and souvenirs section is filled with the vibrant colors of Vietnamese culture, offering conical hats, dolls, wooden statues, ceramics, paper fans, and keychains – souvenirs loved by international visitors seeking gifts with a strong Vietnamese identity.In addition, the premium gifts section showcases elegant pens and luxury gift sets – refined choices for holidays and special occasions. Thanks to this, Saigon Bookstore is not only a familiar destination for local readers but also a favorite stop for international tourists.

A Symbol Associated With FAHASA

With the investment and vision of FAHASA, Saigon Bookstore has gained its modern look today, becoming a symbol of preservation and growth – a place where memory and modernity meet, where the love of knowledge is nurtured and shared across generations of readers.

In particular, the building at 60-62 Le Loi is not only home to Saigon Bookstore but also the headquarters of FAHASA- an iconic address, bearing witness to half a century of development and the pioneering position of the brand in Vietnam’s book distribution industry.

Address: 60-62 Le Loi, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
FAHASA CORPORATION