The 31st Manyoshu Song Festival and Firefly Viewing is set to take place at Manriki Park's Manyou Forest in Yamanashi City, Yamanashi Prefecture, over three days from June 12 (Friday) to June 14 (Sunday), 2026. The event combines the mystical glow of fireflies dancing through the park's preserved natural habitat with elegant recitations of Manyoshu poetry — a beloved early-summer tradition in the area. Daytime activities include stage performances and local food stalls, while evenings bring an enchanting atmosphere lit only by the gentle light of fireflies.
Event Details
| Venue | Manriki Park, Manyou Forest (1827 Manriki, Yamanashi City, Yamanashi Prefecture) |
| Dates & Hours | June 12 (Fri) to June 14 (Sun), 2026: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (June 12 only: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM) |
| Admission | Free (some paid activities) |
| Access | Approx. 15-minute walk from JR Yamanashi-shi Station; approx. 20-minute drive from Katsunuma IC on the Chuo Expressway |
| Parking | Available (June 13 only) — Official paid parking lot within a 5-minute walk from the venue (reserve here); some free parking also available |
Program Highlights
① Firefly Viewing and Guided Tours
Visitors can enjoy the spectacular sight of fireflies dancing throughout Manriki Park, where the natural habitat has been carefully maintained. Volunteer guide-led tours of the firefly habitat are offered throughout the event period.
② Manyoshu Poetry Recitation and Stage Performances
The main stage features a packed three-day lineup, including taiko drum performances by students from Iwate Elementary School, Manyoshu poetry recitations, a special stage by the city's tourism ambassadors, and an open-call "Anyone Can Be a Musician" segment welcoming general participants.
③ Food Stalls and Family-Friendly Activities
The grounds feature food and drink options from the city's Chamber of Commerce, a Manyou Forest Marche organized by the city's tourism association (June 13 only), a children's games corner, a tea ceremony (June 13 and 14), and vehicle displays from fire and police departments — offering plenty to enjoy for families with children.
*Programs are subject to change.
Event Background
Running for over 30 years, the festival aims to nurture a love of culture through Manyoshu poetry recitation while fostering community commitment to preserving the clean water and natural greenery that sustain the firefly habitat.
Last Year's Highlights
Tips for Firefly Viewing
- Fireflies are sensitive to bright light and may scatter if disturbed. Light-up toys and camera flash photography are not permitted.
- Capturing or handling fireflies is prohibited in order to protect them.
- The venue will be kept dark to allow for the best firefly viewing experience. Please watch your step carefully.
For more information, visit the official website or follow the official Instagram.
