Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields Introduction
Jingzai Jiao Tile Salt Fields is the first salt field in Beimen and is also the oldest existing tile salt field site. Originally established during the Qing Dynasty as the Laidong Salt Field, it was relocated here in 1818 and has not been moved since, making it the oldest operational salt field in Taiwan with a history of 200 years. Historical records indicate that Chen Yonghua, a military advisor under the Zheng regime, believed that the salt-making techniques of the indigenous people at that time were not mature, resulting in bitter-tasting salt. Therefore, he reformed the salt-making methods by building platforms by the sea, laying crushed tiles on them, and directing water into salt pools, allowing the sun to evaporate the water and crystallize the salt on the tiles. The tile salt fields, made from approximately 6mm thick tile fragments, present a beautiful mosaic-like artistic appearance. In order to preserve the cultural spirit of salt production, efforts have been made to restore the salt field, allowing the unique salt-making landscape of “Jingzai Jiao” to remain on the coast of Yonghua Village in Beimen. As the sun sets, the evening glow is reflected in the salt fields, making this place a favorite spot for photographers to capture the beauty of sunsets. It has now become the most distinctive tourist salt field within the Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan Coastal National Scenic Area. Jingzai Jiao Tile Salt Fields allows visitors to relive the shared memories of local residents, and tourists can also experience the fun of traditional salt making, carrying salt, and collecting salt, deepening their understanding of Taiwan’s salt production history. It is an ideal deep travel spot for families to enjoy together.
