Is Ishino-yu Firefly Forest happening right now?
As of Jun 19, 2026, 8:54 PM, in season, building toward peak (~July 15). Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Each summer the Ishino-yu area of Shiga Kogen hosts locally abundant populations of flashing Japanese fireflies.
The high-elevation setting shifts the season later than lowland sites, producing clear, cool-night displays that are popular with local nature-watchers and tourists.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| Ishino-yu Firefly Forest Viewing Trail |
| Ishino-yu Onsen Parking & Overlook |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.