CHIAYI (TVBS News) — Nature lovers seeking the magical glow of fireflies have 23 newly revealed viewing locations across Chiayi County, a rural region in southwestern Taiwan, according to an announcement Friday (April 18) from the Chiayi County Culture and Tourism Bureau (嘉義縣文化觀光局). Officials recommend overnight stays in the greater Alishan area (大阿里山區), a mountainous region famous for its forests and tea plantations, to experience the luminous insects at secret spots distributed throughout five townships: Alishan (阿里山鄉), Meishan (梅山鄉), Zhuqi (竹崎鄉), Fanlu (番路鄉), and Zhongpu (中埔鄉).
The county's top elected official, Commissioner Weng Chang-liang (翁章梁), emphasized the exceptional ecological diversity of the region. "Chiayi County has the most firefly species in the nation, with over 40 species inhabiting the Alishan area alone," Weng stated. This tourism initiative integrates family-friendly hiking paths, indigenous cultural experiences, scenic railway views, and lesser-known natural attractions to promote deeper connections with Taiwan's wilderness areas.
Separately, in central Taiwan's Taichung City, local transportation authorities have partnered with the "Daxueshan Ecotourism Association" (大雪山生態旅遊協會) to launch a special transit package for firefly enthusiasts. The newly created "Taichung Go-48 Hour Bus Tour Daxueshan Pass" (台中Go-48小時公車暢遊大雪山套票) offers unlimited bus travel for two days through the city's transit system between April 20 and May 30. Purchasers receive substantial 85% discounts on guided firefly tours and lodging in the Daxueshan area. Taichung Transportation Bureau Director-General Yeh Chao-fu (葉昭甫) noted that April and May provide optimal conditions for firefly observation in this mountain region. ★
