Taiyuanjing
Time-Honored BrandTaiyuanjing · Sichuan · Founded 1800
A century-old well salt brand from Zigong, Sichuan, Taiyuanjing crafts premium seasonings using traditional techniques, carrying forward the rich culinary heritage of Bashu.
Brand Story
Taiyuanjing, originating from Zigong, Sichuan, traces its roots back to the mid-Qing Dynasty (around 1800, during the Jiaqing reign). Zigong, known as the 'Millennium Salt Capital,' thrived on well salt production. Founded by the Li family, local salt merchants, Taiyuanjing initially focused on salt production, leveraging the region's abundant brine resources. The name 'Taiyuanjing' means 'living source, ever-flowing,' symbolizing both the richness of the salt wells and the family's hope for enduring prosperity. During the late Qing and early Republic periods, Taiyuanjing's salt, prized for its purity and savory taste, was sold far beyond Sichuan, becoming a standout among Sichuan salts. More than a salt workshop, Taiyuanjing embodies Zigong's salt culture, witnessing the rise and fall of the region's salt industry. Its traditional techniques—drawing brine, boiling, and crystallization—reflect ancient wisdom and hold significant value for studying China's salt history and culinary traditions. Today, Taiyuanjing remains committed to blending ancient well salt culture with modern life, allowing more people to savor the savory essence of history.
“From the Millennium Salt Capital, savor the savory essence of history.”
Signature Products
Produced using traditional boiling techniques, with uniform grains, pure salty taste, and rich minerals, ideal for daily cooking. (10-30 RMB/500g)
Specially designed for pickling vegetables, low in iodine, effectively inhibits unwanted bacteria, making pickles crisp and tangy. (8-20 RMB/500g)
Coarser grains with moderate dissolution rate, suitable for curing meat and vegetables, enhancing flavor. (12-25 RMB/500g)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Sichuan（四川）
Store details are being expanded. Find this brand’s stores and counters on the map below:
Find stores on Amap ↗Shop Online
Official flagship stores / search entries (CPS placements). Replace the links with your own affiliate PID to earn commission with zero inventory.
Cultural Note
Taiyuanjing's salt-making technique, inherited from ancient well salt boiling methods, involves well drilling, brine drawing, boiling, and crystallization, all done by hand with meticulous fire control. This craft showcases ancient ingenuity in utilizing natural resources and reflects the unique charm of Sichuan salt culture. Taiyuanjing upholds traditional processes while adhering to modern hygiene standards to ensure product safety. Its cultural value lies in the living preservation of intangible heritage, revitalizing ancient salt-making skills in contemporary times.
Related Brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Taiyuanjing founded?
Taiyuanjing was founded in 1800, originating in Sichuan, Sichuan, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Taiyuanjing?
Its signature product is Taiyuanjing Well Salt. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: