The simple beauty of Sa Huynh salt fields, Quang Ngai

Besides the splendid beauty of Ly Son Island, Quang Ngai also possesses the simple beauty of Sa Huynh salt fields, an attractive and not at all bland destination. Sa Huynh is not only famous for its important archaeological sites and year-round green beaches with murmuring waves, but also boasts an immense salt field stretching along National Highway 1A, in Pho Thach Commune, Duc Pho District, Quang Ngai Province, about 60km south of Quang Ngai City center.

Origin and history of Sa Huynh

According to the elders, the original name of Sa Huynh was Sa Hoang (meaning golden sand) because the sand here was a beautiful golden color. However, because the word "Hoang" was taboo to a lord of the Nguyen Dynasty in the 19th century, people changed the name to "Huynh". With an age of more than 100 years, including about 600 households and an average annual salt output of 8,000 to 9,000 tons, Sa Huynh salt fields are not only the most important salt granaries in the South Central region but also a traditional craft village comparable to other famous salt villages in the Central region such as Hon Khoi or Ca Na.

Nature and scenery of Sa Huynh salt fields

Stretching over an area of 120 hectares, the Sa Huynh salt fields stand out with small fields next to each other and the shiny water surface reflecting the sunlight. Especially when covered with concrete and foil, this place becomes even more sparkling, as if covered with a layer of precious diamonds, illuminating the entire space. The fields are also dotted with pure white salt mounds like small mountains, along with the hard-working bamboo poles of farmers, creating a simple yet strangely attractive ink painting.

Meticulous salt making process

When visiting the Sa Huynh salt fields, tourists can witness the elaborate salt production process. As early as 5am, farmers call each other to go to the fields to start a working day. Based on the tidal water level, people lead seawater from canals and ditches into water tanks and then slowly release it into the fields. After the water is full and spread evenly on the drying yard, they sprinkle salt bait and wait for the sun to crystallize the salty water into salt. According to the experience of the salt farmers in Sa Huynh salt village, to have large and white salt grains, it is necessary to wait for 3 days; only when the entire salt field is dry and white can the harvest begin. Raking and sifting salt in the blazing sun of 39-40 degrees Celsius helps the salt achieve the best quality.

Homemade motorbikes - Creative solutions of villagers

A unique feature of Sa Huynh salt fields is the homemade motorbikes with their distinctive sound. These are old motorbikes that have been recycled into salt transport tools instead of the shoulder poles that weigh down the shoulders of women. Although small, each motorbike can carry 4-5 bags of salt, greatly improving the lives of Sa Huynh people.

Values and challenges of salt industry

For the people of Quang Ngai coastal village, the salt fields are a source of livelihood for generations. Each unseasonal rain can ruin a day of hard work. Although the salt sold for a few kilos does not bring much money, the salt-making process requires a lot of effort and hardship. This makes visitors appreciate the seemingly ordinary grains of salt even more. When you come here, support the farmers by buying some salt, guaranteed quality with large, white grains and solid crystals.

Visit famous places near Sa Huynh

Exploring Sa Huynh does not stop at the salt fields. When you come here, do not forget to visit famous tourist destinations such as Sa Huynh beach, Sa Huynh cultural exhibition house, Hoc Mo rock, Ma Vuong mound, Chau Me beach or traditional pottery village. All promise to bring extremely wonderful and memorable experiences.

Sa Huynh travel itinerary and time

From the center of Quang Ngai city, visitors can use motorbikes or cars, go along Quang Trung street, through the roundabout and turn onto National Highway 1A. Then, go straight along National Highway 1A and turn left onto Tay Sa Huynh Bypass, turn left at the first intersection and go about 800m to get there. Sa Huynh salt village operates from the third lunar month to August of the solar calendar every year. Salt can only be made on sunny days, so if it is cloudy or rainy, it is best not to visit. Dawn from 5 to 6 am or sunset from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm is the best time to admire the poetic beauty of the salt fields.

Notes when traveling and visiting time

- Check the weather forecast in advance to avoid rainy and gloomy days.

- Avoid coming in the middle of the day when the sun is hottest.

- Bring plenty of sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect against the bright sun.

- Bring drinking water (preferably filtered water) because the heat rising from the salt fields can make you feel dehydrated.

When you are bored with the golden rice fields, green tea hills or colorful flower gardens, refresh your trip with a journey to Sa Huynh salt fields in Quang Ngai to feel the simple and familiar beauty of the farmers here. Thank you for choosing iGuide.ai to accompany you in your exciting experiences!