Top 8 Firefly Viewing Spots Near Mt. Fuji: Experience Japan's Magical Summer Nights
Mt. Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters, is Japan's highest mountain. With its overwhelming presence and beauty, Mt. Fuji serves as Japan's iconic symbol.
At the foot of Mt. Fuji lie highlands and lakes, supporting rich ecosystems and abundant nature. Additionally, numerous spring water sites from Mt. Fuji's melting snow exist throughout the area, with several cities known for their beautiful water scattered around Mt. Fuji's vicinity.
This naturally rich area around Mt. Fuji is also famous for its many Firefly viewing spots. Fireflies can only survive in environments with pristine water. We'll introduce recommended spots for summer evening viewing of Fireflies, nurtured by the rich nature around Mt. Fuji.
Japanese Summer Symbol: "Hotaru" (Firefly)
In Japan, Fireflies are called "Hotaru." The main species found in Japan are "Genji Hotaru," which inhabit areas near flowing streams, and "Heike Hotaru," found in still ponds and rice paddies. Though only about 1 centimeter in size, their illuminated flight in darkness creates a mystical beauty.
Fireflies light up as part of their mating behavior. Breeding begins in late May, peaks in June, and by late July, they're rarely seen, making them a symbolic feature of early Japanese summer.
Fireflies: Special Beetles That Only Thrive in Clean Water
Of the 2,700 Firefly species worldwide, most larvae live underground. However, Japanese Firefly larvae live underwater. Only 10 species worldwide spend their larval stage underwater, making Japanese Fireflies quite rare globally.
Since Firefly larvae can only develop in clean water, observation sites in Japan are limited. The area around Mt. Fuji features many spots with clean streams, making Firefly viewing a gift from its rich natural environment.
5 Spots to Enjoy Beautiful Fireflies Around Mt. Fuji
Fuji/Fujinomiya Area
Minamizawa Hotaru Seseragi Park
Source:Yahoo! News
At "MINAMIZAWA HOTARU SESERAGI PARK," both Genji and Heike Hotaru can be observed from late May to mid-July. In this peaceful village surrounded by rice paddies and streams, 20,000 to 30,000 fireflies dance during peak times. The best viewpoint is along the grasslands by rice fields near the "Inase River," where the Fireflies' lights create a stunning display in the darkness.
The best viewing time is 19:30-20:45. Note that they can't be seen after this time. The Fireflies at Minamisawa Park were carefully raised from larvae by local residents. As with all Firefly populations, capturing them is strictly prohibited.
<Basic Information>
Address: Shizuoka-ken Fujinomiya-shi Uchifuna 919, Surrounding streams
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0544-22-1155 (Fujinomiya City Office Tourism Planning Division)
Official Website: https://www.city.fujinomiya.lg.jp/kankou/llti2b00000018k7.html
Lake Tanuki
Source:Lake Tanukiko Camp Ground
Lake Tanuki is an artificial lake in the vast Asagiri Highland on Mt. Fuji's western side. This 3.3km artificial lake was created for agricultural irrigation. Despite being man-made, it blends naturally with the surroundings, offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji across its waters.
Fireflies can be observed here from late June through July, with Genji fireflies visible along the lakeshore. This rare spot combines fireflies with Mt. Fuji views - the mystical sight of Mt. Fuji silhouetted against the bright firefly lights is unforgettable.
The lakeside area features numerous campgrounds and cottages, making it ideal to combine camping with firefly viewing.
Basic Information:
Address: 634-1 Saori, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0544-22-1155 (Fujinomiya City Tourism Planning Division)
Official website: https://www.city.fujinomiya.lg.jp/kankou/llti2b00000018ga.html
Harada Park
Source:Google Maps
The Harada area in Fuji City, situated right in front of Mt. Fuji, is famous for its natural springs and historical firefly spots. It's remarkable to find fireflies in this residential area surrounded by factories.
Harada Park, a local favorite with playground equipment and sports fields, features Pond Ebidou where fireflies appear around mid-June. The park is accessible via the Gakunan Railway, offering beautiful nighttime factory views.
This emotional spot uniquely combines both human-made industrial night scenery and natural firefly illumination.
Basic Information:
Address: 704 Harada, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0545-55-2795 (Fuji City Hall)
Official website: https://www.city.fuji.shizuoka.jp/sp/machi/c0405/fmervo000000byeh.html
Yoroigafuchi Waterfront Park
Source:Google Maps
In the Harada area near Mt. Fuji, the Yoroigafuchi Waterfront Park is a beloved water space among locals. Surrounded by old factories, this tranquil park becomes a children's water playground in summer.
A small stream flows through the park where you can observe Genji fireflies from late May through June. Many locals enjoy evening walks during the firefly season to witness these magical creatures. The Harada area, with its numerous waterfront areas and retention ponds, offers multiple spots to encounter small clusters of fireflies. Why not take a stroll through the Harada area, where you can experience authentic Japanese local life while searching for fireflies with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop?
Basic Information:
Address: 1165-3 Harada, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0545-55-2795 (Fuji City Office)
Official Website: https://www.city.fuji.shizuoka.jp/machi/c0405/fmervo000000byeh.html
Yamanashi Area
Firefly Village Akiha Park
Source:Home of Fujisan, Yamanashi
The Firefly Village Akiha Park is a peaceful settlement surrounded by rice fields. Though small, true to its name, you can witness around 100 Genji fireflies along the park's stream. The best viewing time is from mid to late June, when many locals and tourists visit to observe the fireflies.
While the park usually has street lights, they are turned off during firefly season to create ideal viewing conditions. Local residents carefully maintain the environment to support firefly habitation. Please refrain from catching fireflies or littering. Enjoy observing these natural wonders while being mindful of the environment.
Basic Information:
Address: 522-1 Oobatta, Nagasaka-cho, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0551-42-1115 (Hokuto City Branch Office)
Official Website: https://www.hokuto-kanko.jp/guide/6019
Issiki Firefly Village
Source:Home of Fujisan, Yamanashi
The Minobu area in Yamanashi Prefecture is surrounded by mountainous terrain. The large Fuji River flows through the center, and you can observe fireflies along its calm tributary streams. This area is also famous for Shimobe Onsen hot springs, allowing visitors to enjoy both hot springs and firefly viewing.
In Minobu town, Issiki Hotaru no Sato is the premier firefly viewing spot. Visitors can watch fireflies from late May to the end of June. During peak season, over 500 Genji fireflies dance in the air, captivating viewers' hearts, with Mt. Fuji visible in the distance.
Basic Information:
Address: 1221 Issiki, Minobu-cho, Minami Koma-gun, Yamanashi
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0556-62-1103 (Minobu Chamber of Commerce)
Official Website: https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/kankou/spot/p1_4510.html
Yumachi Firefly Park
Source:Yahoo! Travel
Minobu has another popular firefly viewing spot. Yumachi Hotaru Park is a streamside park maintained by locals to support firefly habitation. The park's natural environment, with blooming flowers and birdsong during daytime, provides an ideal habitat for fireflies.
The best viewing period is from June to early July, slightly later than Issiki Hotaru no Sato. Though it's a 30-minute walk from Shimobe Onsen, consider taking an evening stroll through nature to see the fireflies after enjoying the hot springs.
Basic Information:
Address: 201 Shimobe, Minobu-cho, Minami Koma-gun, Yamanashi
Hours: Always open
Closed: Never
Phone: 0556-62-1103 (Minobu Chamber of Commerce)
Official Website: https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/kankou/spot/p1_4510.html
Fuji Five Lakes Area
Yamanakako Flower Park
Yamanakako Hanano Miyako Park spans 300,000 square meters with seasonal flower fields. The flowers blooming against Mt. Fuji's backdrop create stunning views - nemophila in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn. Along the adjacent Katsura River, visitors can observe fireflies. Though fewer in number, their quiet glow in nature creates a moving experience.
During firefly season, the park features million rapeseed blossoms, blue garden cornflowers, and gypsophila. Consider walking along the stream to watch fireflies after viewing the flower fields.
Basic Information:
Address: 1650 Yamanaka, Yamanakako-mura, Minami Tsuru-gun, Yamanashi
Hours: April 16-October 15: 8:30-17:30 / October 16-April 15: 9:00-16:30
Closed: Tuesdays from December 1 to March 15
Phone: 0555-62-5587
Official Website: http://www.hananomiyakokouen.jp/
Kawaguchiko Museum
Source:Home of Fujisan, Yamanashi
The Kawaguchiko Museum, situated along Lake Kawaguchiko, hosts annual art exhibitions primarily featuring Mt. Fuji-themed paintings. The museum grounds offer an exceptional firefly viewing experience, with 1,000-2,000 fireflies illuminating the lawn area despite its urban location. During peak season in late June, they host the popular "Hotaru no Yuube" (Firefly Evening) viewing event.
While firefly colonies of this size typically inhabit remote locations, this spot offers excellent accessibility from popular tourist destinations like FujiQ Highland amusement park and Asakura Fuji Sengen shrine, known for its beautiful five-storied pagoda against Mt. Fuji. Consider enjoying firefly viewing in the evening.
<Basic Information>
Address: 3170 Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko-cho, Minami Tsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: 9:30-17:00
Closed: Tuesdays and Year-end
Phone: 0555-73-8666
Official Website: https://www.fkchannel.jp/kgmuse/
3 Important Points for Firefly Viewing
Here are three essential guidelines for observing these natural wonders. Review these points to ensure a harmonious viewing experience for both fireflies and humans.
Avoid Flashlights and Camera Flashes, Observe Quietly
Fireflies are sensitive insects that shy away from light and noise. While viewing areas are dark, resist using lights as fireflies will flee from bright illumination. Turn off lights upon arrival at viewing spots.
Never use camera or smartphone flashes, as this can harm their ecosystem. Light emission is a vital part of firefly life activity. Practice mindful, quiet observation.
Viewing Season Varies by Location (Late May to Mid-July)
Fireflies appear from late May, but peak viewing times vary by location. Research specific timing before visiting.
Generally, Genji fireflies near streams are visible from late May to June, while Heike fireflies in rice paddies can be seen from mid-June to early August. Prime viewing hours are between 7 PM and 9 PM. Note that fireflies become inactive after 9 PM.
Weather and Environmental Conditions Affect Firefly Activity
Firefly visibility heavily depends on weather and environmental conditions. They are most active on warm, humid, windless evenings. They show increased activity during new moons rather than full moons due to their light sensitivity.
Viewing is not possible on rainy or windy days. Since firefly season coincides with the rainy season, check weather forecasts before visiting.