From now until Lunar New Year (Tet), which peaks on February 12, district authorities have proposed repairing and upgrading the area at the center of the lake to serve residents during the country's biggest and most important holiday.

The pedestrian zone covering an area of 19,500 square meters would then be divided into culture-exhibition, art performance, food and entertainment areas.

Turtle Lake lies at the intersection of Pham Ngoc Thach, Tran Cao Van and Vo Van Tan streets, where restaurants, bars and cafes are concentrated, making it a busy destination from morning till night.

The district also suggested the pedestrian zone opens from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

Sidewalks would also be repaved and more trees planted, while a new lighting system is installed.

The project will be funded from the city budget and by private enterprises.

HCMC is Vietnam’s biggest metropolis and leading tourist attraction. The city now has three pedestrian zones, including a third opened near Quang Trung Monument in District 10 last month. Nguyen Hue pedestrian zone and nearby Bui Vien walking zone, both in District 1, are always crowded over the weekend.

City authorities have designated VND74 billion ($3.2 million) to open five more pedestrian streets to develop the night-time economy and tourism.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has approved a master plan for developing the night-time economy in Vietnam, allowing major cities like Hanoi and HCMC to pilot nocturnal services from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

The approval stemmed from a recognition that the night-time economy was a global trend boosting the tourism sector by offering travelers more choice of cultural activities as well as spending opportunities.