Glowworms, also known as fireflies or lightning bugs, produce magical summer spectacles when you step outside at night from June to August. These insects emit amazing blue-green glows in their larval forms.

Despite the name, glowworms are actually beetles.

Most species of glowworms can only live for one year. A tiny part of the glowworms can survive two years. The full-grown period only lasts for two weeks when the insect can emit glows. The insect likes to live in forests in a humid environment.

Like other insects, the number of fireflies is declining. Here are some places in Hangzhou where it is still possible to find glowworms.

West Lake District

West Lake Scenic Area

The Faxi Temple and Bamboo-lined Path at Yunqi are the most popular destinations in downtown Hangzhou to watch glowworms, with bamboo forests growing and creeks going through.

Yuhang District

Jingshan Mountain

It just slows down as you move away from the city. On sunny days, the night sky is clear with hardly any clouds, making it one of the best places to stargaze. Glowworms usually hide in grass, more likely if close to creeks.

Changle Forest Farm

The Changle Forest Farm is not only known for autumn leaves but for the unique scenery on summer nights. The Ganling Reservoir in the forest makes this place a popular camping site. Along the reservoir fly glowworms at night. With forest coverage of 95.11%, it is one of the top ten "most beautiful forest parks" in Hangzhou.

Shuangxi

The Shuangxi Village, where the North Tiaoxi Creek goes through, is a great choice for finding glowworms with rich forest resources.

Luniao Town

Glowworms have recently been spotted in the town, such as the Shangougou Scenic Spot and Luniao RV Park. The Shangougou is a National 4-A level scenic spot with a forest coverage of 89.86%.

Tips for admiring and taking pictures of glowworms:

1. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to avoid mosquitoes.

2. Bring a flashlight to walk safely in the dark.

3. Use wide-angle and wide-aperture lenses.

4. Choose the right place to set up the tripod.