Fussa Firefly Festival

Never been to Fussa? Now’s a great time to go, as the western Tokyo city is bringing back its famous firefly festival this May. The mysteriously glowing creatures have been raised for months just for the event, before being released into a riverside park at nightfall to illuminate the area with their soft glow.

The best time to catch the fireflies is around 8pm, with viewing at Hotaru Park running from 7.20pm to 8.30pm. There will also be events throughout the day, including hula dance shows, taiko drumming performances and brass band showcases by local junior and senior high school students at the nearby Fussa Daisan Junior High School Gymnasium.

Finally, crowds are to be expected, so leave the car at home and take the train or bus to the festival site (the closest stations are Ushihama on the Ome Line and Kumagawa on the Itsukaichi Line). Entry to the firefly viewing area requires a free numbered ticket, which can be obtained on the day at the nearby Fussa City Social Welfare Centre (while supplies last).