Dreamy glowing fireflies as magical as a fairyland — four top firefly-watching spots in Hualien

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Every year during the transition between spring and summer, it's the season when fireflies are abundant, allowing you to seek out the magical glowing lights in the dark forests. Hualien, rich in natural environmental resources, welcomes the firefly-watching season every year. In places like Da Nong Da Fu, Liyu Pond, and Mayuan Tribe, you can see fireflies flitting through the forest — a spectacular and enchanting sight.

1. Da Nong Da Fu Plain Forest Park
Da Nong Da Fu Forest Park boasts abundant ecological resources. Unlike other areas, March and April each year mark the season of firefly appearances here, kicking off Taiwan’s firefly-watching season. As a low-altitude area developed at a low density, the park maintains excellent environmental conditions and has in recent years become an emerging secret spot for firefly viewing.
 
2018 Firefly Fun at Da Nong Da Fu
Event Dates: March 17 to April 15, 2018
Event Location: Da Nong Da Fu Plain Forest Park Service Center and North Loop Trail
Event Hours: First session 18:30–19:30, second session 19:30–20:30, third session 20:30–21:30
Capacity: 500 people on weekdays / 800 people on weekends, first come first served.
Admission: NT$198 per person (free for children under 2), local residents rate NT$160 (with valid ID for Hualien residents and people with disabilities). The fee includes guided tours and community souvenirs. Souvenir types may vary depending on availability.
※ Registration opens at 9:00 on March 1, please sign up online in advance

2. Liyu Pond
Liyu Pond features abundant ground cover and multi-layered forest vegetation, providing hidden habitats and ample food for wildlife. It is also a renowned firefly-watching destination in Hualien. The firefly season typically runs from April to June each year. In addition to enjoying the beautiful scenery of the pond during the day, at night, when large numbers of fireflies appear, it's like angels lighting up the entire valley landscape.

3. Mayuan Tribe
Mayuan Tribe is one of Hualien’s lesser-known secret spots for firefly watching. Starting every April, large numbers of fireflies begin dancing through the trees at night, creating a truly magnificent and beautiful scene. Located deep in the mountainous area of Ruisui Township, the tribe benefits from clean water sources and minimal pollution, making it a favored habitat for fireflies.

4. Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area