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

Text by / MOOK Travel Editor Team, compiled and reported

The Danongdafu Plain Forest Park has abundant ecological resources. Unlike other regions, March and April are the park’s firefly seasons, kicking off Taiwan’s annual firefly-viewing period. Hualien is rich in ecological diversity, with key firefly-watching 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 excellent environmental conditions, and in recent years has become an emerging secret spot for firefly viewing.

The Hualien Forest District Office guides ten surrounding tribal and community groups in organizing firefly-viewing events. 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 dreamlike glowing secret realm.

The ecological resources within Danongdafu Plain Forest Park have become increasingly rich. During the day, you can commonly spot the Formosan blue magpie, a rare bird subspecies endemic to Taiwan, and ride along the country’s longest forest cycling path — reminiscent of a Totoro tunnel scene — for a delightful biking experience. At night from March to April, thousands of magical glowing dots flutter through the forest, making it a hidden gem for firefly viewing known only to locals.

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