Ly Son Garlic Fields
Ruộng tỏi Lý Sơn
Extensive garlic fields grown on volcanic soil covered with white sand, with green plants set against black volcanic cones and the sea. This is the island's most representative rural landscape.
The soil on Ly Son Island is poor, so islanders dig up white sand from the beach and spread it over the red soil formed by weathered volcanic basalt to retain moisture and nutrients. This is how they grow the small, intensely flavoured 'Ly Son single-clove garlic'. The garlic fields cover almost all the flat land between the volcanic cones on the main island. In winter and spring the garlic shoots form lush green carpets, best seen from high points such as Thới Lới Crater and Gieng Tien Peak. Along the field banks you often see farmers watering and harvesting, and red shallot fields are interspersed among them. The fields are spread across the island, require no entry fee, and can be enjoyed by stopping along the way during a motorbike tour around the island. Do not step into the fields. Garlic and garlic wine can be bought at the island's markets and harbour as souvenirs.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Gieng Tien Peak
- Hoang Sa Flotilla Memorial & Am Linh Temple
- Duc Pagoda
- Hang Cau Cave
- Thoi Loi Crater
- To Vo Gate
- Hang Pagoda
- Mu Cu Islet