Discovering the Art of Salt-Making in Thanh An Island

In Thieng Lieng hamlet, Thanh An Island, Can Gio, there thrives a long-standing tradition of salt-making. Here, travelers have the opportunity to explore the village's salt-making craft, savoring the fresh air and friendliness of the locals.

Discovering the Art of Salt-Making in Thanh An Island

According to local narratives, over 40 years ago, a young man in his early twenties ventured with his family through various channels and rivers, including Soai Rap, Vam Sat, Dong Nai, on a small boat. They discovered a small islet and decided to settle there. As time passed, the island has grown to host over 200 households with nearly 1,000 residents, and the heart of it is Thieng Lieng hamlet in Thanh An Island.

The residents of Thieng Lieng engage in salt production from December to May every year. This hamlet is one of three in the island commune with a salt-making craft, covering an area of over 400 hectares, producing more than 20,000 tons of salt annually.

Households involved in salt-making in Thieng Lieng have storage areas for salt after harvesting. Despite superior salt quality compared to many places, selling prices are lower due to transportation costs. Locals lack means to transport the salt for consumption and rely on boats from traders in provinces like Tien Giang, Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, to come and purchase.

To reach this salt-producing hamlet, travelers must journey to Can Thanh, take a boat through Thanh An commune, and then proceed to Thieng Lieng hamlet. It requires two boat trips to reach the destination, which was also the sole means of transportation between the island and the mainland at that time. However, today, the route to Thieng Lieng has been shortened. Tourists can take a shortcut from the forest management boat dock in Can Gio, traveling by speedboat directly to Thieng Lieng, reducing the road distance by 20km and waterway distance by 10km.

Here, you will not only learn about the salt-making process and methods but also revel in a refreshing and spacious environment. It features lush coconut groves and a pristine landscape, embodying the essence of the Mekong Delta. Vast salt fields stretch endlessly, showcasing the determination of the islanders. Salt production is the exclusive livelihood in Thieng Lieng hamlet, where salt grains are painstakingly harvested, a testament to the hard work of the islanders.

Source: Mytour

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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook