Courtesy of Yu-Liu Chen and Editorial Office
Every spring and summer, twinkling fireflies begin their mesmerizing dance across Taiwan’s wilderness. The key to enjoying this breathtaking sight is a light pollution-free environment—a natural advantage that Hualien enjoys from north to south. The dazzling glow of fireflies creates a romantic spectacle, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories.
A Dreamscape Woven from Water and Fireflies｜Liyu Lake
Liyu Lake is one of Hualien’s most renowned destinations, a scenic wonder where mountains and water harmoniously blend. Travelers visiting Hualien often include this spot in their itinerary, indulging in activities such as hiking along the lakeside trail, taking a boat ride or paddleboarding, and enjoying a leisurely cycling trip along the waterfront. During spring and summer nights, fireflies can be spotted dancing gracefully in the darkness around Liyu Lake. Whether strolling along forested paths or simply sitting by the lakeside, visitors are treated to a magical ecological display, perfect for unwinding from the stresses of daily life.
Now in its fifth year, the Hualien Pacific Hot Spring Festival continues to promote the renowned Ruisui Hero’s Spring and Antong Beauty Hot Spring. With dazzling lights and glowing art installations adorning both hot spring areas, visitors can experience an enchanting nighttime ambiance. This festival has become a must-visit event during autumn and winter, drawing travelers to soak in therapeutic hot springs and enjoy festive activities. As the weather cools, the event only heats up! Stay tuned for special promotions on the official website, and don’t miss out on soothing hot spring baths and exclusive gifts.
INFO｜Liyu Lake Visitor Center
Address: No. 100, Huantan North Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County
Telephone: 03-8821705
Business hours: 08:30-17:30
Lavatory: Yes
※The 2025 Liyu Lake Firefly Viewing Season will be hosted every Friday and Saturday in April and May. For details, call 03-8875306#662
A Century of Forestry Heritage｜Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area
Nestled near Liyu Lake, Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area is a hidden gem rich in history. Beyond its well-maintained forests and trails, the area also preserves a wealth of forestry history. From old locomotives to timber yard sites, and even a commemorative monument at the park’s highest point, every trail turn and intersecting path offers a close encounter with over a century of forestry heritage.
The Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area is a thriving natural habitat, making it an ideal environment for fireflies to flourish. As night falls, these tiny creatures light up the forest, creating a mesmerizing glow. Travelers joining guided tours can follow experienced guides to learn firefly-watching techniques and discover up to 10 genera and 21 species of these luminous insects. Under a starlit sky free from light pollution, watching fireflies twirl gracefully feels like stepping into a fairy tale—a world where the forest itself shimmers with light.
Firefly Viewing Tips:
Wear long-sleeved clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
Wear rain boots or sneakers and avoid stepping into grass to prevent snake encounters.
Fireflies glow best in darkness—if using a flashlight, cover it with red cellophane.
Do not make loud noises, disturb, or capture fireflies.
INFO｜Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area
Address: No. 65, Linyuan Road, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County
Telephone: 03-8641594
Business hours: 08:00-17:00
Lavatory: Yes
Ticket price: NT$40; Weekends: NT$50
※2025 Chihnan – Sparkling Fireflies Event will be hosted from 04/02 to 04/26. For details, please contact: 03-8641594#13
A Fireflies Season’s Feast for the Senses｜Mataian Wetland Ecological Park
At the foot of Mt. Maxi in Guangfu Township, the Mataian Wetland Ecological Park is Hualien’s largest wetland ecosystem and a cherished homeland of the Amis people. From March to May, as night falls, visitors can admire the tranquil beauty of fireflies flickering under the gentle evening breeze. Join an ecology tour guide for an exclusive exploration of this hidden paradise, where the glowing fireflies add a touch of romance to the season. For an unforgettable experience, consider staying overnight and falling asleep under a canopy of fireflies.
When you’re here, be sure to visit the Shin-Liu Farm in the park to observe the traditional fishing technique of the Amis people, known as "Palakaw." They use natural materials, such as bamboo, brush pot tree, and Taiwan crepe myrtle branches, to create a three-layer structure. This structure is then placed in the stream to provide a habitat and feeding space for fish and shrimp. This method helps prevent large-scale captures, ensuring the sustainable development of the ecosystem. The restaurant at Shin-Liu Farm offers local indigenous flavor dishes, especially their signature salt-grilled fresh fish, which is tender and juicy. Not only can you enjoy watching fireflies at night, but you can also savor delicious meals, leaving you both delighted and full.
INFO｜Mataian Wetland Ecological Park
Address: No. 60, Daquan Street, Guangfu Township, Hualien County
Telephone: 03-8701861
Business hours: 10:00-17:00
Lavatory: Yes
※2025 Fireflies Season’s Feast will be hosted from 03/15-05/18 (Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.) For details, please contact: 0975-350520
Taiwan’s Grandest Firefly Spectacle｜Danongdafu Forest Park
The vast Danongdafu Forest Park, located not far from the Mataian Wetland Ecological Park, offers a different charm throughout the year. The park is rich in ecological resources and expansive in size, surrounded by both the Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range, making it an ideal destination for leisurely exploration along its gentle, uninterrupted forest paths. During the day, you can ride a bike through the continuous tree canopies, listening to the sounds of insects and birds while inhaling the fresh air infused with nature's phytoncides.
In collaboration with the local Guangfu Tafalong Tribe, Danongdafu Forest Park offers visitors a variety of warm experiences, including a glowing dot market, friendly local farmers, and handmade crafts, all accompanied by delightful food and items. At night, alongside guided tours through the vast forest park to spot the twinkling glow of fireflies, visitors can also hop on the limited-time "Glowing Little Train." This unique experience feels like riding a little train to a firefly-lit party in the forest. In the spring nights, travelers are invited to come and seek out the mesmerizing glow of fireflies, adding a beautiful memory to their journey.
INFO｜Danongdafu Forest Park Visitor Center
Address: No. 31, Nongchang Road, Guangfu Township, Hualien County
Telephone: 03-8811878
Business hours: 08:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Lavatory: Yes
※2025 Danongdafu Forest Park - Dance with Fireflies in the Forest Event will be hosted from 03/14-04/06. For details, please contact: 03-8325141#262