Breathe with Fireflies in the Forest: A Curated Guide to Southern Taiwan’s Firefly Season

▲ As firefly season kicks off nationwide, the Alishan area also sees a large number of fireflies appearing at night. (Photo / From the Alishan New Impressions fan page)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Escape the concrete jungle of the city and head into the natural mountains and forests during this vibrant spring season. Enjoy the green hills, clear waters, blue skies, and white clouds during the day, then venture into the forest at night to play with fireflies (known locally as "fire gold aunts") and revel in the rare sight of green lights dancing all around you. Southern Taiwan’s firefly season, which lasts until September, is about to begin right after that.

Alishan “Dancing with Fireflies & Trail Exploration” Series Events

The Alishan Scenic Area,which boasts a rich variety of natural ecosystems,immediately transitions into firefly season after the cherry blossom period and has launched a series of firefly-viewing activities, allowing the public to experience walking amidst the glow of fireflies at night.
“Glow Walk – Spring & Summer Firefly Viewing” is divided into four sessions on April 19, 26, 29, and May 13.
“Glow Walk – Trail Exploration” is divided into four sessions on April 27, 29, May 13, and June 7.

In addition to the two one-day firefly viewing tours mentioned above, combining with the Alishan Forest Railway, the Alishan National Scenic Area Administration has planned two one-night package tours on April 29 and May 13. Aside from firefly viewing, visitors can also take the Alishan Forest Railway to enjoy the natural scenery of Alishan in the mountains.

Tainan Xinhua National Botanical Garden “Xinhua Firefly Fun”

Listed as one of Tainan’s Eight Scenic Spots and Ten Attractions, the Xinhua National Botanical Garden opens to the public for night firefly viewing every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting 6 PM from now until May 31.

The event operates on a reservation basis, and the garden has introduced four types of packages. Visitors can not only stay overnight in the botanical garden to enjoy rare tranquility but also enjoy a special firefly-themed dinner, making the trip more enjoyable. For details, visit theXinhua National Botanical Garden official website.Inquiry.

Kaohsiung “Namasia Firefly Fun”

Launched by the Kaohsiung City Government Tourism Bureau, Namasia District Office, and four travel agencies (Kaohsiung Flag,Carrefour,Wellcome,and China Youth Travel Service), the “Happy Firefly Viewing Two-Day Tour” not only allows participants to experience indigenous DIY activities such as leather carving, washing figs, painting calendars, and picking mushrooms, but also includes guided tours of local tribal areas led by professional guides. For details, check the official websites of the respective travel agencies.WellcomeandChina Youth) have launched the “Happy Firefly Appreciation Two-Day Tour” itinerary. In addition to experiencing various indigenous DIY activities such as leather carving, washing fig latex, painting calendars, and picking mushrooms, the tour also includes a guided tribal tour led by local professional guides. For details, please visit the official websites of the respective travel agencies.

Pingtung Pomelo Farm Eco-Firefly Season

Every year from April to September is the peak season for firefly activity in the park. Reservations are accepted from now until September 30 between 4 PM and 8:30 PM, with a daily limit of 120 visitors. For details, visit the“Pomelo Farm Eco-Firefly Fun” event official website.Search and sign up.