Taiwan is lucky to have an amazing diversity of fireflies—over 65 species. It also has the largest density of these amazing beetles in Asia—two species of firefly for every 386 sq mi (1,000 sq km). No wonder, observing glowing fireflies has become a national sport in an island country. Every April, dozens of firefly watching festivals take place in all regions, from Taipei in the North to Kenting National Park in the South.
Firefly spots around Taipei (late April–early May)
In the Taipei area, the firefly watching season starts in late April and lasts through early May. One of the best locations with plenty of trails is Yangmingshan National Park, located between Taipei and New Taipei City. Since the park is quite large you can always avoid crowds here. The picturesque Daan Forest Park in Taipei City recently ran a program to repopulate fireflies. Muzha Park is an excellent spot where you can see rare Aquatica ficta fireflies that live in still waters. Rongxing Garden and the Shilin Official Residence are two more great places to see fireflies.
Fireflies at the West Lake Resortopiaa, Miaoli County (April)
In Northwest Taiwan, the Miaoli field of West Lake Resortopiaa area (Sanyi Township) is the most iconic firefly watching location. The special scene unfolds during a few weeks in April for less than an hour. Thousands of fireflies glowing with yellow light roam over the Centella asiatica plants that are giving away blue light right after the sunset. The eerie field with amazing glow is one of the most popular locations for nature photographers.
Winter fireflies at Alishan area, Chiayi County (mid-November–December / January)
Alishan area in Chiayi County of Southern Taiwan boasts the biggest diversity of fireflies and about two-thirds of the country's population. The scenic Alishan Natural area features at least a dozen of locations to see fireflies. The dominating species are Diaphanes lampyroides that appear to mate from mid-November to December or January.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Taiwan for firefly watching?
To properly experience firefly season in Taiwan, it's best to visit the island between April - early May and mid-November - December. Firefly watching festivals take place throughout the country during these times. Taiwan has become known for its abundance of fireflies, and observing these glowing insects has grown in popularity across the country. Show more
Where can we find the highest density of fireflies in Taiwan?
Taiwan is home to an impressive number of fireflies, with two species for every 386 sq mi (1000 sq km). Boasting over 65 species, Taiwan holds the highest concentration of fireflies in Asia. Locations such as Yangmingshan National Park, Daan Forest Park, Muzha Park, Rongxing Garden and the Shilin Official Residence are spread throughout the islands, with Taipei being one of the best-up to observe them. Show more
What are the most unique firefly species we can see in Taiwan?
Among the numerous species of fireflies in Taiwan, some are unique to the island. The Aquatica ficta fireflies are among them and inhabit still waters. Besides them, Diaphanes lampyroides is a dominant species that can be spotted from mid-November through December or January. One of the main attractions of a firefly season is observing their twinkling lights illuminating the night sky. Show more
Where is the best location to see fireflies in Taipei?
Taipei has several locations where fireflies can be seen, with Yangmingshan National Park being one of the best options. Alternatively, Daan Forest Park and Muzha Park are great places to spot fireflies. Aquatica ficta fireflies can be found in Muzha Park's still waters, while Rongxing Garden and the Shilin Official Residence round out the list of excellent firefly locations in the Taipei area. Show more
When and where is the most iconic firefly watching location in Taiwan?
West Lake Resortopia in Miaoli field area of Sanyi Township is Taiwan's most notable firefly watching location. Viewing these magical insects occurs during a few weeks in April for less than an hour. This location is well-known for thousands of fireflies producing a beautiful yellow light and attracts nature photographers. Another highly recommended firefly area is in Southern Taiwan's Alishan region, famous for its diversity and spectacular scenic views. Show more
