Fussa Firefly Festival

The Fussa Firefly Festival traces its origins to 1963, when an unexpected increase in Genji fireflies was observed in the area. Inspired by this rare phenomenon, the local neighbourhood association held the first festival in 1966 as part of a community revitalisation effort.

As urban development progressed and the firefly population declined, the city established Hotaru Park to protect the insects' natural habitat and ensure their survival. Today, Genji fireflies raised by local residents can be seen flying near the park and around the Ome Bridge area along the Tamagawa Josui Canal, their glowing lights creating a dreamlike atmosphere in the early summer night.

The festival takes place along Seseragi-dori between Hotaru Park and the Fussa Welfare Center, with firefly viewing at Hotaru Park, events at the gymnasium of Fussa City Fussa Third Junior High School, food trucks along Seseragi-dori, and children's festival stalls on the Fussa Welfare Center grounds. With easy access from central Tokyo, the festival draws both locals and visitors from across the region, offering a rare blend of nature, community, and culture.