The ultra-romantic Tokyo Skytree glows under a starry night sky as fireflies shimmer along the Sumida River
Last updated 2026-09-25 — The Tokyo Fireflies (Tokyoホタル) event is set to launch alongside the one-year anniversary of the Tokyo Skytree. This initiative will kick off the Galaxy Project "Symphony of Light," releasing 100,000 solar-powered...
By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network, compiled and reported by Zhang Yingying
The Tokyo Fireflies (Tokyoホタル) event is set to launch alongside the one-year anniversary of the Tokyo Skytree. This initiative will kick off the Galaxy Project "Symphony of Light," releasing 100,000 solar-powered LED lights into the Sumida River. These LED lights, which emit a firefly-like glow, are named “Prayer Stars®.” From 19:00 to 21:00 on the evening of May 25, they will float between Sakurabashi Bridge and Azumabashi Bridge, creating a nighttime scene reminiscent of the Milky Way. Paired with the Tokyo Skytree’s special evening illumination, the romantic spectacle is highly anticipated.
The Sumida River transforms into a celestial river, reflecting the brilliance of the Tokyo Skytree. (Image source / Tokyoホタル event official website)
When the Tokyo Fireflies event was held last year on May 5 and 6, it attracted over 370,000 visitors. This year’s event coincides with the one-year anniversary of the Tokyo Skytree’s opening, and the overall scale is expected to be even grander. The concept of the Tokyo Fireflies event originates from childhood memories of summer evenings, when tiny firefly lights dotted the countryside. This enchanting scene is being recreated in the urban landscape, showcasing a new harmony between nature and the city. As the quietly flowing river carries modern, luminous technology, visitors can enjoy the city nightlife while once again experiencing the coexistence of nature and urban life. The event also highlights that Tokyo is not just a bustling metropolis, but also a place of beautiful scenery to be shared with the world.
“Prayer Stars”
In addition to being able to view the event up close, there are designated viewing and prayer star release seating areas for this activity, which require the purchase of tickets for entry. Besides enjoying a close-up experience, visitors can also receive a prayer star for making wishes and participating in the release experience. There are also special terrace seating areas with better views. Visitors planning to attend can refer to the official event website for ticket purchase locations (URL: http://tokyo-hotaru.jp/).
There are many ways to enjoy the Tokyo Firefly event, such as taking a yakatabune boat for a close-up view while also admiring the Tokyo Skytree in the distance — a truly romantic experience. (Image source / Official website of the Tokyo Hotaru event)
This event also promotes an environmentally friendly concept. Aside from the “Prayer Star®,” which is a solar-powered LED light, there will be over 20 specialized recovery boats operating along the Sumida River between Azuma Bridge and Umaya Bridge for cleanup efforts. In addition to fully enjoying this spectacular sight, visitors can also appreciate the organizers' commitment to environmental protection. Moreover, the traditional yakatabune boats often seen on the Sumida River are also an excellent choice for viewing the event. Visitors can take a yakatabune from Odaiba heading toward Asakusa in the evening to arrive at the Tokyo Firefly site, immersing themselves in the romantic atmosphere of a glowing river of lights, while also taking in the captivating nighttime view of the Tokyo Skytree against the night sky.
Further reading:
Tokyo Skytree and Taipei 101 Have Teamed Up！》http://goo.gl/ZqPUq
Share
This article is published by HowToTrip. Sharing and reposting are welcome — please credit the source.
Article URL: https://www.howtotrip.net/views-39746
Related Articles
- Shaoxing's "Grandpa Gourd" hangs the gourds back up: "If there are too many people, we'll interact less — just take a quick look from afar"
- Chinese authorities announce "reciprocal adjustment" to Japan visa fees — single-entry visa jumps from 2,250 to 16,750 yen!
- The "health stones" carried by a traveler were found to have radiation levels exceeding safety limits by a thousand times, potentially endangering fellow passengers on the same flight. Customs issues warning!
- Shenzhen Airport Issues Late-Night Notice: Unidentified Aerial Object Detected, Causing Widespread Flight Delays!
- “They only said it cost money after I opened the box and washed it!” 200g of grapes sold for 60 yuan on a high-speed train—12306 responds!
- Can't buy an airline ticket? Denied exit? Blocked from boarding? A large number of Chinese tourists have mysteriously become "discredited individuals"
- Adverse weather and economic fluctuations impact Colombia's coffee market
- Beach bathing area responds to 2 yuan/30 seconds fee for freshwater foot rinsing: Clearly priced!
- Taking off with an improperly closed cabin door? Wing malfunction? Multiple flights made emergency returns mid-journey!
- Experience the gifts of nature！ A countdown of the world’s ten most stunning coastlines