The Ground Galaxy: A Dreamlike Spectacle — Five Prime Firefly-Watching Spots in Taichung

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Every spring and summer marks the season when fireflies emerge in great numbers, their flickering lights blanketing the woods like a terrestrial version of a starry Milky Way — a truly romantic and enchanting sight. The Greater Taichung area boasts many great spots for firefly watching, including Dongshi Forest, Baguashan, Dakeng Ecological Park, and more, each offering an experience akin to stepping into a hidden paradise.

1. Dongshi Forest
Dongshi Forest is a well-known firefly-watching destination in Taichung. Once a forestry and logging site, it has transformed into a popular amusement park with rich natural ecology. The area offers different floral beauties across the seasons, including cherry blossoms in spring, tung trees in summer, maple leaves in autumn, and plum blossoms in winter. The annual firefly season in April is not to be missed.
 
Address: No. 6-1, Shilin St., Dongshi District, Taichung City
※ Free guided firefly tours are held at 7 PM and 8 PM every evening (meet at the visitor center)

2. Baguashan Forest Recreation Area
The Baguashan Forest Recreation Area features warm temperate broadleaf forest, represented by species such as Masson pine, Taiwan five-needle pine, Taiwan incense cedar, fir, and beech family plants. The park has three forest bathing trails, where fireflies can be seen flitting through the woods on summer nights, creating a scene straight out of a hidden paradise. 

Address: No. 8, Sec. 1, Dongguan Rd., Heping District, Taichung City
 
3. Ruanpikeng Leisure Agriculture Area
Covering an area of 253 hectares, Ruanpikeng Leisure Agriculture Area focuses primarily on fruit production and exudes a strong local rural charm. The park also includes a well-preserved natural habitat for fireflies, offering half-day tours and small package programs that allow visitors to learn about rural fruit ecology and enjoy firefly viewing.
 
Address: No. 58-1, Ruanpikeng, Qingfu Li, Dongshi District, Taichung City

4. Dakeng Ecological Park
Dakeng Ecological Park is the closest firefly-watching spot to downtown. Formerly a butterfly garden and firefly breeding area, the park is teeming with various insects and is known as the backyard of Taichung — a great place to experience the region’s natural environment, insects, and flora. 

Address: No. 30, Sec. 2, Dongshan Rd., Beitun District, Taichung City

5. Qingtonglin Ecological Park