Watching fireflies in Japan is the real deal!* Top 5 dreamy firefly-viewing spots

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Family compiled report   Photos/ Rakuten Travel

 

It’s now firefly season—not only is Taiwan crazy about firefly watching, but Japan’s firefly season is about to begin too?! From May to July every year, Japan’s firefly-watching season features spectacular glowing scenes that attract many travelers to various parts of the country. Below are five selected “popular dreamy firefly-viewing spots” in Japan. If you’re planning a trip to Japan anytime soon, why not add a firefly-watching experience to your itinerary?

1. Fukuoka Prefecture’s “Kamimashiki Town”

In the Higashikami and Nishiebinoki areas of Kamimashiki Town, Fukuoka Prefecture, fireflies appear every year from late May to mid-June. There, you can enjoy the sight of countless fireflies dancing in the sky, accompanied by the gentle sound of a nearby river—a moving scene you can’t experience in the city. Since summer days are generally hot and humid, the best time for firefly viewing is on windless, cloudy nights.

2. Tokyo’s “Kugayama Firefly Festival”

You can see fireflies even in bustling Tokyo!* Near Kugayama Station on the Keio Inokashira Line in Tokyo, the “Kugayama Firefly Festival” is held every summer. This year’s festival takes place on June 15 and 16. The event begins in the evening with a firefly release ceremony along Tamagawa Ryusui and Kanda River. The best time to view the fireflies is two to three days after their release, when you can witness the magical sight of fireflies dancing in the heart of the city.

3. Hyogo Prefecture’s “Uchi-no Shrine”

Nestled within the forests of Tanba City, Hyogo Prefecture, Uchi-no Shrine is a special spot where Genji fireflies flutter around and emit a dreamy glow every year from June to July. There’s also a “Water Fantasy Tour” firefly-watching program where you can enjoy a 40-minute display of these magical insects.

4. Miyagi Prefecture’s “Togabuchi in Higashiwatari Town”

As a national nature conservation area, Togabuchi in Higashiwatari Town, Miyagi Prefecture, is home to a large population of Genji fireflies. These sparkling insects dance gracefully over the waters of the Togabuchi River, creating an enchanting reflection on the water’s surface.