Like stepping into a Studio Ghibli movie scene — Taiwan’s largest firefly forest secret paradise

By MOOK Travel Editor Team

The Danongdafu Plain Forest Park boasts abundant ecological resources, distinct from other areas. Every March and April marks the firefly season here, kicking off Taiwan’s firefly-watching season. Hualien is rich in ecological diversity, with key firefly-viewing spots including Liyu Pond in Shoufeng Township and Fuyuan Butterfly Valley in Ruisui Township. The low-altitude Danongdafu area, developed at a low density, has maintained its environment exceptionally well, and in recent years has become an emerging secret spot for firefly watching.

The Hualien Forest District Office guides ten surrounding tribes and communities in organizing firefly-watching activities. From March 17 to April 15, registration is done online in advance, with on-site payment. The fee is NT$198 per person (children under 2 are free), with a discounted rate of NT$160 for Hualien residents, including guided tours and community souvenirs (local agricultural products). Led by local experts, visitors can explore this dreamy realm of glowing lights.

The ecological resources within the Danongdafu Plain Forest Park have become increasingly rich. During the day, you can commonly spot the rare Swinhoe’s pheasant, a subspecies unique to Taiwan, as well as Taiwan’s longest forest cycling trail, which resembles a Tunnel of Totoro, offering endless fun for cyclists. From March to April each year, the forest glows with thousands of magical fireflies at night, making it a hidden gem known only to locals.

The Hualien Forest District Office has coordinated with ten surrounding tribes and communities to jointly organize the “2018 Danongdafu Firefly Fun” event, welcoming visitors to the park to admire the beauty of the fireflies. Through guided tours, you can experience Taiwan’s earliest, largest, and most accessible firefly-viewing secret spot. This year, in addition to firefly watching, the organizers have integrated food, entertainment, and accommodation to offer complete travel packages.