Ao Truong Dua in Go Cong: Memories of a Bygone Prosperous Town

Timeline

Go Cong's Golden Age and the Birth of the Racecourse

Few people know that under French rule, Go Cong was one of Cochinchina's busiest administrative and commercial centers, renowned for its rice trade and wealthy landowners. As French officials and affluent local families gathered here, they also brought fashionable Western pastimes—most notably horse racing.

Today's pond is the last visible trace of what was once a large horse-racing circuit. To raise the track and spectator areas above the surrounding ground, workers excavated an enormous amount of soil. Over time, the deep pit filled with water and became the broad, nearly square pond now tucked into the middle of town.

Looking across the still water today, try to imagine the scene more than a century ago: pounding hooves, cheering landowners and elegant rickshaws arriving at the gates. The Former Racecourse Pond is more than a body of water; it is evidence of Go Cong's early prosperity.

Origins Formed from the excavation used to build up a horse-racing track during the French colonial period.

Golden Age Once an exclusive entertainment venue for officials and wealthy landowners.

Today The racecourse is gone, leaving behind a large lake that helps cool the surrounding area.

Archival Photograph of the Former Racecourse Pond — An archival image of the Former Racecourse Pond—more than 80 years old and once part of a colonial-era horse-racing venue.

Where Past and Present Meet

From Horse-Racing Track to Urban Lake

The racehorses have long disappeared, but the name “Ao Trường Đua” remains deeply rooted in local memory. Its role has changed completely: what was once a lively entertainment ground is now a peaceful place to slow down and recharge.

Mature trees shade the pond, while smooth paved paths curve around the water. It now serves as a vast green lung, cooling the center of Go Cong. In place of betting crowds and loud cheers, you hear birdsong, rustling leaves and children laughing as they cycle around the pond at dusk.

This transformation gives the place a quiet romance of its own. It shows how a town can renew itself: the remains of an extravagant past have gradually been reclaimed by nature and everyday community life.

The Former Racecourse Pond and Go Cong's Local Memory — Today, the calm waters of Ao Truong Dua are where Go Cong residents stroll and enjoy the evening breeze.

The Experience Today

What Can You Experience Here?

Do not come expecting a ticketed attraction, monumental ruins or a polished tourist site. Ao Truong Dua is more about atmosphere and local rhythm than dramatic sights.

Come for a slow walk beneath the trees and watch the water catch the late-afternoon light. Small pavement stalls and snack carts gather around the pond. Order an iced tea or sugarcane juice, pick up a local cake, sit on a plastic stool and watch Gò Công move at its gentle everyday pace.

For travelers who enjoy slow travel, Ao Truong Dua is a place to step out of the role of visitor and blend into ordinary local life.

Main Activities Walking in the breeze, sampling street food and photographing everyday scenes.

Its Distinctive Appeal Peaceful water, leafy shade and the unhurried rhythm of local life.

A little note This is a public space, so please keep the area clean while eating or drinking.

Go Cong's Former Racecourse Pond — All you need is a plastic chair and a cool drink to enjoy the calm of this place.

A Creative Perspective

Photography, Nostalgia and the Old Town Atmosphere

Ao Truong Dua may not have grand architecture, but it is an excellent spot for street or film photography. The contrast between the wide water and the low, weathered tile-roof houses nearby creates images filled with nostalgia.

Between four and five in the afternoon, slanting sunlight filters through the leaves onto the path beside the pond. It is ideal light for catching small moments: an elderly man cycling slowly through town, students gathering after school or ripples moving across the water.

Bring a camera—or simply use your phone—and walk along the shore. You can easily return with a series of images that feel cinematic and unmistakably Mekong Delta.

Old Go Cong on the Heritage Route — A weathered street near the pond offers rich material for atmospheric and artistic photography.

A Natural Pause in the Itinerary

An Ideal Place to Pause in the Heart of Town

A heritage itinerary around Go Cong often involves considerable walking between temples, communal houses and solemn monuments. Ao Truong Dua therefore works beautifully as a place to pause and recharge.

Cool air rises from the lake like a natural air conditioner. After wandering through old mansions and monuments, stopping here for the breeze can leave you noticeably refreshed.

The contrast between enclosed, formal heritage sites and the open freedom of the water gives your day a more varied, enjoyable rhythm.

Illustration of Ao Truong Dua — The spacious pondside provides the perfect balance after a visit to Go Cong's historic buildings.

Suggested Route

A Suggested Walking Route Through Central Go Cong

Because it lies within the town center, Ao Truong Dua fits easily into a relaxed three-stop route: Doc Phu Hai's House, the Truong Dinh Mausoleum and Ao Truong Dua.

A perfect afternoon route: Begin at 2:00 p.m. with Nha Doc Phu Hai, where you can admire exceptional woodcarving and the refined lifestyle of Go Cong's former elite. At around 3:30 p.m., continue to the Truong Dinh Mausoleum to pay your respects. By 4:30 p.m., when the heat has softened, walk over to nearby Ao Truong Dua.

Treat yourself to a cool glass of herbal jelly or grass jelly with basil seeds, sit by the water and wait for sunset. In the evening, stroll through Go Cong Market for a filling taste of local specialties before returning at an easy pace to Go Cong Hideaway.

The open space around Ao Truong Dua is ideal for a walk, an evening breeze and the fading light of sunset.

Travel Tips

The Best Time of Day to Visit

Timing makes all the difference at Ao Truong Dua. Avoid the heat of midday, when the harsh sun can make the pond feel exposed and uncomfortable.

Early morning (5:30–7:00 a.m.): Mist often hangs over the water while local residents walk and exercise. It is the best time to feel the town's fresh energy and healthy daily rhythm.

Late afternoon (from 4:00 p.m.): This is the golden hour. The sunlight turns honey-colored, the breeze picks up and snack vendors begin setting up around the pond. It is the liveliest time to sit, relax and chat with friends after a day of exploring.

Plan Your Gò Công Trip Your Way

There is much more of Go Cong to discover. Browse the guides below to plan a rewarding stay from Go Cong Hideaway.

Stay at Go Cong Hideaway and Enjoy Go Cong's Peaceful Pace

Close to the center of town, Go Cong Hideaway is an ideal base for cycling around Ao Truong Dua, exploring the old market or heading out to breezy Tan Thanh Beach. Let us welcome you to a warm, comfortable stay with the character of the Mekong Delta.

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Sources

The historical background and place-name stories in this article were compiled from Southern Vietnamese historical sources and the memories of local residents, offering greater depth to your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are horse races still held at Ao Truong Dua?

No. The horse-racing era ended more than a century ago under French rule. Today, only the large pond remains, surrounded by paved paths and used as a public green space.

Is there an entrance fee for Ao Truong Dua?

No. It is a free, open public space in Go Cong, and you may walk or take photographs there at any time.

Are there places to eat around the pond?

Yes, especially in the late afternoon and evening. Small stalls and carts sell iced tea, sugarcane juice, grilled rice paper and inexpensive local snacks—perfect for sitting by the water and enjoying the breeze.

When should I include this stop in my itinerary?

The best time is around 4:30–5:00 p.m., after visiting Nha Doc Phu Hai and the Truong Dinh Mausoleum. The weather is cooler then, making it a comfortable place to rest before dinner.

Is Ao Truong Dua far from Go Cong Hideaway?

No. It lies in the center of town. From Hideaway, you can reach it quickly by motorbike or bicycle along pleasant, tree-lined streets.