Early summer in the mountains of Hakone is defined by the ephemeral return of fireflies. Hakone Hotel Kowakien has confirmed the first sightings of the year at the adjacent Horaien Garden as of May 25, 2026. This natural spectacle features Genji-botaru (Genji fireflies), which inhabit the lush grounds and can be observed from late May through mid-June. The area near Horai Bridge, the walkway connecting the garden to the hotel, serves as a primary viewing point where the soft glow of the insects meets the sound of the garden’s flowing water.
The Magic of Firefly Season in Hakone
The firefly population at Horaien Garden is a natural occurrence, supported by the pristine environment of the Hakone mountains. Visitors during this window can experience a quiet, nocturnal side of the region, as the fireflies are most active in the humid, calm evenings of early June. The hotel encourages a restrained approach to viewing to ensure the preservation of the local ecosystem and the continued presence of the insects in the garden.
Hakone Kowakien Hotaru Matsuri and Lantern Night
To coincide with the peak viewing period, the Hakone Kowakien Hotaru Matsuri (firefly festival) is held through June 28. A central feature of the celebration is the Lantern Night, scheduled for June 6 and 7. During these two evenings, guests are invited to write wishes on lanterns and light them within Horaien Garden. To maintain environmental standards, all lanterns used during the event are tethered and fully retrieved by staff after the display concludes.
Exclusive Stay and Day-Trip Packages
The hotel has introduced a Fresh Greenery Plan available through June 30, 2026, with rates starting at 24,750 yen per person. The package includes a buffet dinner with all-you-can-drink options and provides unlimited access to the nearby onsen (hot spring) facilities, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun and Moto-yu Mori no Yu. For those not staying overnight, day-trip options are available, combining hot spring access with dinner buffets at either Hakone Hotel Kowakien or the adjacent Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu.
Property details
- Property
- Hakone Hotel Kowakien
- Official site
- https://www.hakone-hotelkowakien.jp/en/
- Pricing
- Starting at 24,750 yen per person
