{"id":73331,"date":"2025-05-22T13:30:37","date_gmt":"2025-05-22T04:30:37","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/fukuoka-now.com\/?p=61785"},"modified":"2025-05-22T13:56:12","modified_gmt":"2025-05-22T04:56:12","slug":"fukuoka-firefly-watching-guide","status":"publish","type":"guide","link":"https:\/\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/en\/guides\/fukuoka-firefly-watching-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Fukuoka Firefly Watching Guide 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Firefly viewing in Fukuoka is expected to reach its peak slightly later than usual this year, from late May through early June. This tradition, said to date back to the Heian period, is even featured in The Tale of Genji, and has long been appreciated as a quintessential part of early summer in Japan. In Fukuoka, fireflies can be seen in areas where clean water and lush greenery are preserved. Many of these spots\u2014along rivers and in terraced rice fields\u2014exist thanks to conservation efforts by local communities.<\/p>\n

The Fukuoka Now Firefly Guide 2025 highlights 13 locations in and around the city where visitors can experience this tranquil seasonal event.
\n\u25b7Fukuoka Firefly Watching Guide 2025 Google Map<\/a><\/p>\n

\"\u798f\u5ca1\u307b\u305f\u308b\u30ac\u30a4\u30c92023,<\/p>\n

Firefly Viewing Season:<\/strong>
\nIn Fukuoka, the best time to see fireflies is from late May to mid-June, from sunset until 9 pm. They have already made an appearance in other regions, so keep an eye on the firefly forecast for more information! Fireflies are typically found near clean water sources and green spaces. They emerge shortly after it rains, when the wind is low, the humidity is high, and the temperature is comfortably warm. Adult fireflies live for only one to two weeks, but during this brief period, their flickering lights create a captivating, enchanting night display.<\/p>\n

Hotaru Viewing Tips:<\/strong>
\nWhen viewing fireflies, keep the following tips in mind:
\n1. Do not use flashlights or flash photography, as fireflies communicate via their light signals. They will fly in darkness if exposed to other light sources or camera flashes.
\n2. Do not take fireflies home. They thrive by clean rivers and live for only 7-10 days. It’s best to leave them in their natural environment.
\n3. Keep their habitat clean by not littering.
\n4. Check the weather before your visit. Fireflies do not emerge when it’s too cold, too windy, during heavy rain, or under intense moonlight.
\n5. Plan your visit. The optimal time to view fireflies is between 19:30 and 21:00.
\n6. Be quiet and respect the serenity of nature.<\/p>\n

Popular Firefly Varieties in Kyushu:<\/strong>
\n1. Genji-botaru (Luciola cruciata) – The most recognized firefly species in Japan, found across Kyushu and Honshu. They spend their larval stage near clear streams.<\/p>\n

2. Heike-botaru (Aquatica lateralis) – As common as the Genji-botaru in Japan, they are smaller and breed in rice paddies and marshes.<\/p>\n

3. Hime-botaru (Luciola parvula) – Known for their intense brightness and characteristic blinking, this species is widespread in Japan. They usually inhabit forests and are therefore not commonly observed by humans.<\/p>\n

Firefly viewing spots near Fukuoka<\/strong>
\n\u2022 Fukuoka City<\/a> (2)
\n\u2022 Itoshima City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Fukutsu City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Munakata City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Ukiha City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Tagawa-gun<\/a> (2)
\n\u2022 Toho Village<\/a> (2)
\n\u2022 Miyama City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Kitakyushu City<\/a> (1)
\n\u2022 Ureshino City, Saga<\/a> (1)<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Fukuoka City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Tsubame no Mori Hiroba (Rooftop Garden) – Firefly Observation<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Enjoy the sight of fireflies hatched within the biotope situated at Tsubame no Mori Hiroba, a rooftop garden above JR Hakata Station. Genji botaru fireflies, bred at Hakata Station and released in March, can be observed in the specifically designed “Firefly Garden\u201d biotope.<\/p>\n

\"JR<\/p>\n

\u2022 5\/24 (Sat.) ~ 6\/17 (Tue.) *subject to change depending on weather conditions
\n\u2022 10:00~22:00 (firefly viewing: sunset ~, closed in case of inclement weather)
\n\u2022 Free entry
\n\u2022 Tsubame no Mori Hiroba (rooftop), JR Hakata City
\n\u2022 1-1 Hakataeki-chuogai, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.jrhakatacity.com\/kids\/<\/a><\/p>\n

Myohoji Temple Wild Firefly Public Viewing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Myohoji Temple is one of the few precious locations in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City where you can observe fireflies in their natural habitat. Starting in 2001, the temple initiated a program to breed Genji fireflies and allowed them to populate the stream within the temple compound. Interestingly, the chief priest is a graduate of the aquatic bioscience department of Tokyo University and is currently involved in research regarding the breeding and ecology of fireflies.<\/p>\n

A one-night-only firefly viewing event is held each year, during which the usually closed Kagerou Garden is opened to the public. This year, the event will serve as a charity for the Noto Peninsula earthquake, with all admission fees donated.<\/p>\n

\"\u798f\u5ca1\u307b\u305f\u308b\u30ac\u30a4\u30c92023,<\/p>\n

Firefly viewing<\/strong>
\n\u2022 6\/7 (Sat.) *rain or shine
\n\u2022 20:30~23:00
\n\u2022 Tickets \u00a5200 (preschool children free \/ limited to the first 240 people \/ maximum viewing time 15 min.)
\n*Ticket pre-sale: 5\/31 (Sun.) 14:00~16:00, 6\/1 (Sun.) ~6\/7 (Mon.) 10:00~16:00
\n\u2022 Kagerou Garden, Myohoji Temple
\n\u2022 3-10-41 Tojinmachi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n*Parking lot for worshippers and bicycle parking are not available on the day of the firefly viewing event.
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/keiunnzann_myouhouji\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Itoshima City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Fukuyoshi River<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Mamushi no yu is a popular hot spring facility located in Itoshima. The name interestingly translates to “snake bite antidote”, implying the waters have incredibly soothing properties. The hot spring is about a ten-minute walk from Fukuyoshi River, which serves as a habitat to a multitude of fireflies.<\/p>\n

If you’re seeking a unique experience that combines both relaxation and nature, consider visiting Mamushi no yu After unwinding in the soothing waters of the hot spring, you can take a short, leisurely walk to Fukuyoshi River, where you’ll get the opportunity to observe the beautiful spectacle of fireflies illuminating the evening atmosphere. Starting in late May, a designated area will be set up in the parking lot of Mamushi no Yu for viewing fireflies.<\/p>\n

\"Mamushi<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ early June
\n\u2022 2380-1 Nijo-Yoshii, Itoshima City, Fukuoka<\/a> (10 min. by walk from Mamushi no yu)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mamushinoyou\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Fukutsu City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Motogi River Nature Park <\/strong><\/h3>\n

Located at the base of a mountain near the headwaters of the Saigo River, Motogi River Nature Park in Fukutsu City is renowned for being a habitat for fireflies. These enchanting creatures start to make their appearances in mid-May, adding an extra touch of magic to the park’s lush, green scenery.<\/p>\n

The park features a stream that meanders through its heart, providing an ideal home for the fireflies. There are also conveniently placed stairs by the creek, offering visitors a perfect spot to sit, relax, and observe the charming spectacle of the fireflies in their natural habitat.<\/p>\n

Whether you’re a nature lover or simply someone looking for a serene spot to unwind, Motogi River Nature Park, with its scenic beauty and gentle firefly lights, provides an idyllic setting.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Mid-May ~ early June
\n\u2022 1957-1 Motogi, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Parking: free (60 spaces)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.city.fukutsu.lg.jp\/shisei\/shisetsu\/4\/4322.html<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Munakata City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hotaru no Sato Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Established in 1995, the Hotaru no Sato Park in Munakata City designed to restore and preserve the area’s rich water flow and natural environment. Lying along a river, the park serves as a sanctuary for various species of fireflies, including genji botaru, heike botaru, and hime botaru.<\/p>\n

During the peak season, you can witness the enchanting many fireflies illuminating the surroundings with their ethereal glow. The park also features walking paths that provide year-round enjoyment, where you can stroll and take in the beautiful landscape. For families with children, the park also offers playground equipment, making it a great destination for a day of fun and exploration in the outdoors.<\/p>\n

\"Hotaru<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ early June
\n\u2022 44-1 Yamada, Munakata City, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Parking: free (19 spaces)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.city.munakata.lg.jp\/dynamic\/info\/pub\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Ukiha City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Kojio area: Kojio Rever<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Kojio district in Ukiha, known as the Firefly Village, is dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of fireflies, including measures to protect the snails (kawanina) that serve as their food. Along the Kojio River, which flows beside the Kojio Firefly Village Plaza, there are 13 firefly viewing spots where visitors can observe Heike, Genji, and Hime fireflies from Late May to early June. On the final weekend of May, when the firefly season peaks, the Kojio Firefly Festival is held with Kojio Firefly Park as the main venue. Visitors can enjoy strolling through various viewing spots, and local residents will sell light snacks like yakisoba.<\/p>\n

\"\u798f\u5ca1\u307b\u305f\u308b\u30ac\u30a4\u30c92023,<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ early June
\n\u2022 Firefly Festival: 5\/30 (Fri.), 5\/31 (Sat.) 18:00~
\n\u2022 2469-1 Ukiha-machi Kojio, Ukiha City, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/ukihano-akari.com\/information\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Tagawa-gun<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Kure Dam Keiryu Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Keiryu Park, located upstream on the Kure River, a tributary of the Kibe River, is a place where visitors can enjoy walking trails and a waterplay zone. This park allows you to experience the changing seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, fireflies in early summer, the sounds of insects in autumn, and winter landscapes. In June, countless fireflies gather around the streams that flow through the park, making it a popular spot for many visitors to enjoy the spectacle.<\/p>\n

\"Firefly<\/p>\n

\u2022 Early June
\n\u2022 1450 Kagamiyama, Kawara-machi, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Parking: 30 spaces (free)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.town.kawara.fukuoka.jp\/s023\/010\/020\/030\/20171105210534.html<\/a><\/p>\n

Genjii no Mori<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Located approximately 40 km due east of Fukuoka City in the Chikuho region, Aka Village is renowned for its abundant natural beauty, especially during early summer when fireflies are in full display. At Genjii no Mori, a multi-purpose facility that includes a campsite, hot springs, and lodging, a “Firefly Viewing Event” is held during the firefly season. This tour takes participants to various firefly spots within the village by chartered bus. The tour is limited to 30 participants per day and requires a reservation by phone.<\/p>\n

Firefly Viewing Event<\/strong>
\n\u2022 5\/30 (Fri.) , 6\/1 (Sun.), 6\/6 (Fri.), 6\/8 (Sun.)
\n\u2022 19:30~21:00
\n\u2022 Entry fee: \u00a51,000, under ES \u00a5800 (incl. hot spring fee)
\n\u2022 0947-62-2851<\/a>
\n\u2022 5251-3 Aka, Akamura, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Parking: approx 100 spaces (free)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.genjii.com\/uncategorized\/post-1900<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Toho Village<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Tanada Shinsui Park <\/strong><\/h3>\n

Toho-mura, located at the headwaters of the Hoshuyama River, Ohi River, and Koishiwara River, is famous for its production of Koishiwara ware and Takatori ware. The village provides an unforgettable experience for visitors, especially during Late May to mid-June, when the night sky lights up with the ethereal glow of fireflies.<\/p>\n

Despite the heavy rainfall that affected northern Kyushu in 2017, leading to a decrease in the firefly population, the residents of Toho-mura have been working diligently to protect and nurture these luminescent creatures. Their efforts are bearing fruit, and the firefly population is gradually recovering.<\/p>\n

\"\u798f\u5ca1\u307b\u305f\u308b\u30ac\u30a4\u30c92023,<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ mid-June
\n\u2022 3100 Hoshuyama, Toho-mura, Asakura, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/toho-info.com\/spots\/detail\/<\/a><\/p>\n

Iwaya Yusui<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The “Iwaya Yusui,” located right next to Chikuzen-Iwaya Station on the Hita-Hikosan Line BRT, which opened in 2023, is also a famous firefly spot. It is the only spring in Fukuoka Prefecture recognized by the Ministry of the Environment, with a daily water output of approximately 15,000 tons. This soft water, with a hardness of around 31 degrees, can be purchased at a water station for \u00a5100 per 30 liters. The spring is about a 20-minute walk (approximately 1.4 km) from the Tanada Shinsui Park.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ early June
\n\u2022 4031-5 \u200b\u200bHoshuyama, Toho-mura, Asakura-gun, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Parking: 4 spaces (free)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.pref.fukuoka.lg.jp\/somu\/ken-dayori\/202405\/html\/odekake.html<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Miyama City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Yamakawa Kamachi-yama Reservoir<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Kamachi-yama Reservoir, completed in 1717 with the labor of 76,000 people, continues to irrigate local farmlands even after 300 years. It is the only reservoir in Fukuoka Prefecture selected for the “Top 100 Reservoirs” by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and it is also known as a habitat for fireflies. In June, countless Genji fireflies can be seen around Kamogawa Park, located upstream.<\/p>\n

\"Yamakawa<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ early June
\n\u2022 Upstream of the reservoir, Kamachi-yama, Yamakawa-machi, Miyama City, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 Temporary free parking: 50 spaces (only late May ~ early June)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/yamakawa_hotaru<\/a><\/p>\n

Yamakawa Firefly Viewing <\/strong>
\n\u2022 5\/29 (Thu.) ~ 6\/4 (Wed.)
\n\u2022 Expected appearance time of fireflies: 20:00~21:00
\n\u2022 Free entry<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Kitakyushu City<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Tashiro River<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Tashiro River area, known for having the highest number of fireflies in Kitakyushu City, is a place where untouched nature remains, and during peak times, thousands of fireflies can be seen. The areas with the most fireflies are along the Tashiro River, from the former Kyushu Folk Village to the vicinity of Tashiro Bridge. From the Tashiro River Seseragi Hiroba, where there is a parking lot, it is about 500 meters to the former Kyushu Folk Village, and you can see fireflies along the way.<\/p>\n

\"Firefly

\u5317\u4e5d\u5dde\u5e02\u63d0\u4f9b<\/p><\/div>\n

\u2022 Early June ~ mid-June
\n\u2022 Kawachi, Yahatahigashi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka<\/a> (around former Kyushu Folk Village<\/a> to Tashiro Bridge<\/a>)
\n\u2022 Parking: approx. 40 spaces in Tashiro River Seseragi Hiroba <\/a>(free)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp\/contents\/05101047.html<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Ureshino City, Saga<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Ureshino Onsen area<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Ureshino, renowned for its hot springs, transforms into an enchanting spectacle during firefly season. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience as you witness thousands of fireflies illuminating the night sky.<\/p>\n

A prime location to witness this natural phenomenon is the area upstream of the Iwayagawachi Dam. Situated just a 10-minute drive away from Ureshino Onsen, this location offers an unspoiled environment perfect for fireflies. As there are no streetlights in this area, you’ll be enveloped in darkness, making the sight of fireflies glowing in the grass near the waterfall even more breathtaking.<\/p>\n

So, plan your trip around the firefly season this year and make unforgettable memories in Ureshino. Whether you’re soaking in the renowned hot springs or marveling at the glittering fireflies, you’re sure to have an incredible experience.<\/p>\n

\"\u798f\u5ca1\u307b\u305f\u308b\u30ac\u30a4\u30c92023,<\/p>\n

\u2022 Late May ~ mid-June
\n\u2022 Iwayagawachi, Ureshino-machi, Ureshino City, Saga<\/a><\/p>\n

Firefly Bus<\/strong>
\nThe annual “Firefly Bus,” which operates to firefly viewing spots within the Ureshino Onsen area. The tour departs from “Siebold’s Footbath” (822-1 Otsu, Shimojuku, Ureshino-machi, Ureshino City, Saga<\/a>), which is available 24 hours a day for free. The approximately one-hour tour includes about 30 minutes of firefly viewing at the Iwayagawachi Dam before returning to the departure point. Reservations are required for this tour.<\/p>\n

\u2022 5\/31 (Sat.) ~ 6\/9 (Mon.)
\n\u2022 First service: 20:00~21:00, second service: 20:30~21:30 *canceled in case of rain
\n\u2022 Participation fee: guests at Ureshino Onsen \u00a5500 (over 3 y.o.) \/ general \u00a51,000, \u00a5500 (3~11 y.o.)
\n\u2022 https:\/\/spa-u.net\/news\/2025\/05\/2025-1.php<\/a><\/p>\n

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