Xiyuan Salt Field is the only preserved salt field site in Kinmen. While many people know Kinmen as a battleground, famous for its sorghum, wind lion gods, and other unique features, few realize that Kinmen once flourished through its salt industry. The salt produced by Xiyuan Salt Field was once one of the crucial sources of supply between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. In the past, local residents relied on the salt industry for their livelihoods, making it an essential part of the region’s economy. However, with the passage of time, the salt field closed, marking the end of over 700 years of Kinmen’s salt-making history, and precious historical memories began to fade.
Although Kinmen has begun efforts to restore salt fields and establish a cultural center, the tourism outcomes have not met expectations. Through local industries, visitors can learn about the region’s history and cultural development, with the salt industry serving as an important cultural carrier to understand Kinmen’s history. The team has placed salt at the core of their efforts, expanding into related products such as “salt-scented candles” and “salt soap gift sets.” These products integrate local Kinmen elements such as wind lion gods and Minnan-style architecture, and are crafted from ceramics, adding new value to the local salt. Additionally, historical and cultural elements are incorporated into the brand, reflecting the past culture of Kinmen and allowing the precious history to be reintroduced in the contemporary era.
