Firefly Season in Japan: A Staple of Early Summer

Fireflies are a beloved feature of early summer in Japan, with many people making it a point to visit rivers surrounded by greenery just to catch a glimpse of their ethereal glow. 

They also hold deep cultural significance, often associated with the souls of the departed and inspiring thoughts of loved ones. Fireflies are a recurring motif in traditional Japanese poetry and art, as well as in pop culture, such as in the 1988 animated film “Grave of the Fireflies.”

They can only be spotted around clear streams in nature-rich, tranquil areas. That is why it’s so wondrous to see them in Tokyo. This article explains the best times and locations to see fireflies in Japan, highlights the annual firefly event at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, and firefly viewing etiquette.

When & Where to See Fireflies in Japan

The peak season for Japanese fireflies depends on the location and species. Genji fireflies (Luciola cruciata), one of the most common in Japan, are most visible between May and June. Heike fireflies (Luciola lateralis), which are smaller than Genji, can be seen from July onwards. 

The best time to view them is after sunset, when the sky is completely dark. The precise time when fireflies are most active depends on weather conditions, so we recommend checking in advance. 

Note that fireflies tend to hide and are not as active on rainy, cold, or windy days. Therefore, it’s best to try to see them on moonless, cloudy, and humid nights.

Top Firefly Viewing Spots in Japan:

• Tsukiyono Firefly Village (Gunma Prefecture): A stunning natural display along the riverbanks. Runs for one month from mid-June from 8 to 9 PM and is free of charge.
  
• Kemi Firefly Village (Nagano Prefecture): Home to thousands of Genji fireflies that are protected by a local conversation group.
• Nigami Firefly Festival (Niigata Prefecture): Fireflies can be seen all along the Hokura River. The firefly festival takes place in the nearby Nigami Town in June and July.
• Firefly Events in Tokyo: Parks, shrines, and hotels offer curated firefly-viewing experiences. Read on for the experiences available at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo.

See Japanese Fireflies in Tokyo: Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

Since 1954, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo has cultivated a thriving firefly ecosystem in its lush Chinzanso Garden. The hotel raises its own fireflies in a special facility in Nagano, and since 2000, its hotel staff have been trained by specialists to take care of the fireflies through all the stages of their development. 

Every January, they release larvae by the clear stream in Chinzanso Garden. They begin to appear in mid-May, and by the end of the month, thousands of glowing fireflies can be spotted in the evenings. Even the quality of the water in the garden has been adapted to accommodate the fireflies. 

*This map is from last year. Please be aware that some information may have changed.

Around 10,000 Genji fireflies can be seen in Chinzanso Garden annually, while 500 to 600 insects can be spotted during peak season. 

Hotel guests, restaurant patrons, or visitors shopping for gifts and souvenirs at the hotel shop have full access to the garden of Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo. To see the fireflies, visit the area around the Benkei Bridge in Chinzanso Garden. They can be spotted along the river between the bridge and the old watermill located downstream. On rainy days, the fireflies can be seen from the corridor behind the Gojo Waterfall at Yusuichi Pond. They fly into a cave biotope that recreates their natural habitat.

The best time to see them is between 19:30 and 21:00, after dining at one of the restaurants in the precincts. Finding yourself surrounded by hundreds of fireflies that bright up the night, with their twinkling lights, is a breathtaking experience.

Best time and location to see fireflies at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

• Time: 19:30 – 21:00 (Mid-May to June)
• Location: Around Benkei Bridge and the old watermill (On rainy days, they can be observed from the corridor behind Gojo Waterfall at Yusuichi Pond.) 
• Access: Open to hotel guests and restaurant patrons

The 2025 Firefly Festival at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo 

During firefly season, the hotel hosts a celebratory event that allows visitors to enjoy a festive dinner prepared by the hotel chefs before or after viewing the fireflies in the garden. This year’s festival is from May 16 to June 29. 

Guests can choose from a variety of cuisines, from Japanese to Italian, allowing everyone of all ages to fill their plates with their dishes of choice. 

Please visit the event page for further information, where you can find the dates, bookings, and fees, as well as menu details. 

［This Year’s Firefly Evenings Dinner Buffet Details］

Firefly Viewing Etiquette

Fireflies are delicate creatures that thrive in pristine environments. To preserve their natural habitat, visitors should observe the following etiquette:

• Avoid bright lights. Flash photography and phone screens can disrupt fireflies’ natural rhythms.
• Do not touch or capture fireflies. Handling fireflies can damage their fragile bodies.
• Do not use insect repellent. This can harm the fireflies. 
• Minimize noise. Loud sounds can startle and disturb fireflies.
• Dress appropriately. Wear long sleeves and pants to protect against insects.

Other Hotel Highlights of Early Summer

Introduced in 2020, the Tokyo Sea of Clouds is a feature that adds to the magic of firefly season. The garden is shrouded in mist several times a day, mimicking the serene landscapes of mountain peaks. 

The combination of the surreal atmosphere created by fireflies and the Sea of Clouds is a special sight. With the Sea of Clouds on one side of the garden and the glowing fireflies on another, it’s a singular experience unlike any other. 

The hotel is also home to several fine-dining restaurants, including Japanese cuisine, and hosts seasonal events like the annual garden display and more. Please visit the hotel website for the latest information. 

Japanese Fireflies: Light up Your Summer with These Special Creatures

From rural riversides to urban retreats, there are many places to view fireflies in Japan. For those visiting Tokyo, Chinzanso Garden offers a rare opportunity to admire fireflies in a tranquil oasis. The soothing atmosphere will surely lift your spirits, filling you with joy and encouraging you to look forward to the following seasons.

Updated on March 10, 2025