Breathtaking Glowworm Sanctuaries: Four Top Glowworm-Watching Spots in Tainan

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots / Reported by Chen Wenlin
 
Every spring and summer, around April to May, is the peak season for glowworm sightings. Tainan boasts the richest variety of glowworm species in southern Taiwan, including 13 types of black-winged glowworms, which blanket the hillsides and forests, twinkling like stars in the night, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Below are four of the best glowworm-watching sanctuaries in Tainan. If you’re planning a trip to Tainan soon, take advantage of the cool season to witness the beauty of these enchanting insects.

1. Nansi Meiling

The 2018 Tainan Nansi Meiling Glowworm Season “Glow Towards Happiness” will be held from April 21 to May 6, with events on three consecutive weekends at the Wulong Trail in Wulong Temple, Meiling. In addition to seeing the widespread glowworm lights across the hills, free guided tours will be offered every weekend at two designated spots — Chushui Zi and Fude Ci Tea Garden — helping visitors learn more about glowworms and local features.

Additionally, during the glowworm season, vehicle traffic control will be implemented on the Wulong Trail and Ercepingshi area. Shuttle services will be available free of charge at four stations — “Meiling Information Station,” “Taishan Station,” “Mama Zhang Plum Chicken Station,” and “Ercepingshi Station” — to transport glowworm watchers to and from within Meiling, making the experience more convenient.
 
[Info]
2018 Tainan Nansi Meiling Glowworm Season: Glow Towards Happiness
Duration: April 21 to May 6, 2018 (three consecutive weekends)
Location: Wulong Trail, Wulong Temple, Meiling
Recommended entry time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
 

2. Baihe Nanliao

Aside from the Nansi Meiling Glowworm Season, the Nanliao Rural Culture Association in Tainan’s Baihe District also hosts the “2018 Nanliao Rural Glowworm Season.” Running from April 1 to May 31, the event features sparkling glowworms that captivate visitors. The Nanliao event is divided into three viewing sessions per day, with a limit of 350 participants daily. Those wishing to admire the firefly beauty should sign up quickly by phone.

[Info]
2018 Nanliao Rural Glowworm Season
Duration: April 1 – May 31, 2018
Time: One session daily from Monday to Thursday at 19:30 / Three sessions daily from Friday to Sunday at 18:50, 19:30, and 20:00
Location: Nanliao Community Activity Center (Old Nanliao School)
Fee: NT$100
Phone: 06-6822977
*Registration by phone only; 350 people per day limit
 

3. National Chung Hsing University Xinhua Forest Farm

Covering an area of 378 hectares, Xinhua Forest Farm is the largest mahogany forest in Taiwan and also the closest forest to the city. It is not only rich in flora and fauna but also offers a beautiful environment with fresh air. Birds chirp and butterflies flutter here all year round. With the change of seasons in spring and summer, visitors can also explore the lively and fascinating world of glowworms at night, making it the perfect time to experience a magical forest nightlife.

[Info]
Xinhua Forest Farm Glowworm Season
Dates: April 14 to May 20, 2018
Time: Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 18:00–19:30
Venue: Meet in front of the Student Internship Building at Zhongxing University Xinhua Forest Farm
Fee: NT$200
Phone: 06-5900022
※ Registration is online only
 

4. Nanhua Guanshan

Known as a hidden gem for firefly watching in Tainan, located in the remote Nanhua Xialiguan area — formerly known as Guanshan Village in Nanhua District and famed for its brown sugar industry. Due to its remoteness and minimal environmental disruption, the firefly habitat has been well preserved. During the peak season each year, the mountains and forests are filled with these magical creatures, emitting dreamy dots of green light — a truly enchanting sight.