Visit Nara

In 8th century Man’you-shou poetry and in one of the most famous Japanese pop songs, “hotaru”, fireflies, have been a metaphor for passionate love and have symbolized farewells. They shine brightest in clean streams and the waters flowing behind Todaiji Temple and the vicinity of Nigatsudo Hall attract hundreds of these luminous insects in early summer. This event, the Great Buddha firefly, takes places like clockwork at around 20:00 and is popular among children and adults.