Hora Firefly Road

Overview

Hora, a district within Toyosato located in the innermost reaches of Miyama-cho, close to the border with Fukui Prefecture, is a lush area blessed with abundant greenery and water. Every year in mid-June, this area has hosted a firefly viewing event called 'Miyo Horabotaru' (Behold, Hora Fireflies). Thousands of fireflies dance along the crystal-clear Nishikawa River, which flows from Hora Pass, and their lights reflect on the dark river surface under a starry sky, creating a truly magical scene. This 'Hora Firefly Road' was born from the passionate desire of local residents to keep children in the area and to encourage young people who have moved to the city to return. Discussions began about five years ago, and from the sentiment, 'So many fireflies fly here, it's truly beautiful. It would be wonderful if many people could see them,' a walking path was completed two years ago. It was created by laying weed control sheets and cedar/cypress wood chips along the farm road beside the river. This path, with its soft, springy feel underfoot and pleasant woody scent, is a place filled with community love, built not only by local residents but also with the help of those connected to the area who live in the city. The best time to see the fireflies is from around 8 PM to 10 PM, and some have even witnessed all the fireflies returning to the mountains around 11 PM. Fireflies thrive under various conditions such as beautiful water, river shape, water volume, and their food source, snails (kawanina), making the fireflies of 'Hora Firefly Road' truly a gift from nature. This is a special firefly spot with a heartwarming story in the background: local people connect through firefly viewing and rediscover their own community. However, due to ongoing construction in the surrounding area, it is currently closed (as of May 2025), and no events are planned for 2025. Therefore, please check the latest information before visiting.