Salt Fields and Wetlands in Tainan

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North-west of Tainan city, the coast is flat, wet and open. For centuries people made salt here by letting sea water dry in shallow pans. Salt making for industry ended in 2002, but the salt fields, lagoons and mangroves remain. Much of the area is now part of Taijiang National Park. It is a good place for wide views, birdwatching and a quiet day away from the city.

Qigu Salt Mountain

The best-known sight is the Qigu Salt Mountain, a large white hill made of salt left over from the old salt works. Steps lead to the top, and from there you can see the flat salt fields and fish ponds stretching to the sea. Next to it are small shops selling salt products, salty ice cream and snacks. The Taiwan Salt Museum is nearby and explains how salt was made on this coast. The salt mountain is bright and has no shade, so bring sunglasses, a hat and water.

Tile-paved salt fields

In Beimen District, north of Qigu, are the Jingzaijiao tile-paved salt fields. They are among the oldest salt fields in Taiwan. The shallow pans are lined with broken pottery tiles, which make a patchwork pattern. Salt is still made here on a small scale for visitors. On calm days the pans reflect the sky like mirrors, and the sunset here is very popular with photographers. You can sometimes try raking salt yourself. Go in the dry season, as rain stops the salt work.

Black-faced spoonbills

The wetlands around the Zengwen River mouth, near Qigu, are one of the most important winter homes of the black-faced spoonbill. This is a rare white wading bird with a black, spoon-shaped bill. The birds usually arrive in autumn and leave in spring. Viewing platforms and a visitor centre overlook the feeding areas. Bring binoculars, as the birds often stay at a distance. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see them. Do not walk into the wetlands or disturb the birds.

Sicao Green Tunnel

The Sicao Green Tunnel is a narrow water channel in the Taijiang wetlands. Mangrove trees grow on both sides and meet overhead, forming a green tunnel. Small boats with a guide take visitors along the channel on a short trip. Along the way you may see crabs, mudskippers and water birds. The guide speaks mostly Chinese, but the scenery needs no explanation. Boats run in the daytime and may stop in bad weather. The trip is popular on weekends, so arrive early.

Getting there

This area is spread out, and public transport is limited. The easiest way to visit is by car, scooter or a hired driver from Tainan city, which takes around 40 minutes to an hour. Some seasonal tourist buses also run to the main sights. A good day plan is the Sicao Green Tunnel in the morning, the salt mountain and spoonbill centre in the afternoon, and the Jingzaijiao salt fields for sunset. The coast is hot and exposed, so the cooler months are best.

Salt Fields and Wetlands at a glance

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