Seeing Fireflies Around Tokyo's Picturesque Waterways

Where to find fireflies in Tokyo

Looking for fireflies as a child is a fond memory for many people. In Japan too, fireflies, or hotaru, create spectacular night displays of twinkling lights. Even in Tokyo, you can see fireflies, though the charming light-makers only live in places with pure water. Marvel at their lights from sunset until around 21:00 and watch these insects illuminate the night.

An abundance of fireflies: Yuyake Koyake Fureai Village

Become surrounded by an abundance of nature and breathe the fresh air of Yuyake Koyake Fureai Village. In this area of Hachioji, Tokyo, you can experience a lush green world that makes you forget you are in the city. If you want to see the beautiful fireflies, there is no better time to visit than in June. Watch the little bugs speckle the sky with their lights. The fireflies weave between the trees, creating a magical, glowing forest. They are best viewed from dusk in mid to late June. Yuyake Koyake Fureai Village holds many special events all year long, but their fireflies are not to be missed.

©Yuyake Koyake Fureai Village

A long history of fireflies: Hotaru Park

Tama River is a beautiful sight no matter the time of year, but seeing it alight with fireflies turns it into something straight out of a fairy tale. Head to Fussa and the aptly named Hotaru Park, about one hour west of Tokyo, to see this free firefly festival in mid-June. Approximately 50 fireflies are released along the banks of the Tama River to create swirling lights that reflect off of the water and sparkle in the sky. Not only will the charming bugs welcome you, but you can also find food stalls and stage performances for a lively Japanese festival atmosphere. Take the train to avoid crowds and plan to arrive around 20:00, as the festival finishes around 21:00. The fireflies, of course, will be staying long after.

©Fussa City

Fireflies surrounded by gentle nature: Osawa no Sato

Visit Osawa no Sato in Mitaka for a chance to see fireflies in their natural habitat. Floating on top of the flooded rice fields are cabbage leaves, which attract the river snails that the firefly larvae. This encourages the newly-formed fireflies to stay in the area longer; as their mating season begins, they signal to one another using an orchestra of lights. Take a stroll down the boardwalk through tall grass and be mesmerized by the dancing illuminations. Mid-June is the best time to see the fireflies, and the small insects make their nightly appearance from around 19:00 to 21:00. The park asks guests not to use flashlights, strobe lights, or flash photography while looking for fireflies.

©Mitaka City

Stay in a traditional hot spring village and enjoy fireflies: Iwakura Hot Spring and Nariki River

Follow the fireflies to this secluded part of Tokyo. At Iwakura Hot Spring, Ome, you'll feel as though you’ve been transported back to a simpler time. After you're done soaking in the onsen (hot spring), wander the Nariki River on a self-guided tour or an event to see fireflies in June. Enjoy the area's lush green forest and go on a mystical adventure with the fireflies.

©Ome City Tourist Association

Valley of the fireflies—Yozawa River

Appreciate the silence of dusk as you walk along Yozawa River near Akigawa Valley and Seon-no-Yu, with the fireflies flying around you. Stroll from Tokuun-in Temple, a serene village temple, and discover your peace of mind and inner Zen. The banks of the Yozawa River are another popular option for firefly-watching in Akigawa Valley. The river is kept clean by locals and the pure, flowing waters draw fireflies to it. Take a summer walk along the cobblestone path next to the river and watch as the insects dart over the surface of the waters. The best time to see the fireflies in this area is from 20:00 to 21:00. You will love the quiet serenity of Akigawa Valley and its fireflies.

©Akiruno Tourism Association