In the Ryukyu Islands, salt (ma-su), the fundamental condiment, is offered to the gods and is an essential part of daily life. We visited Yagaji Island’s salt fields in July 2021 to learn more about the Irihama salt production process, which is a traditional way of producing salt. As the only salt fields in Okinawa still in good shape, the salt of the Irihama salt fields on Yagaji Island are also candidates for registration on “Ark of Taste,” which demonstrates Ryukyu Islands gastronomic culture to the present day.

Utilizing the sun and tidal movement, the salt content of seawater is gradually increased.

After then, the salt is let to sit for a long while, which gives it a deep taste and a hint of sweetness.