From May to July is the best season to observe fireflies at Xichong International Dark Sky Community in Dapeng New Area. According to the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, firefly numbers are significantly higher this year compared to last year. So, mark your calendar and head to Xichong for a magical night with these glowing wonders.
Covering 10.9 square kilometers, the Xichong International Dark Sky Community includes the observatory, Xichong Beach, and eight villages. The fireflies here are mainly Luciola flavicincta, commonly found in damp grassy areas such as the river between Xinwu Village (新屋村) and Yashan Village (芽山村), the river near the Xichong Beach No. 3 entrance, as well as in the green spaces and waterways with low light pollution in Xigong Village (西贡村), Getian Village (格田村), and Xiyangwei Village (西洋尾村). Fireflies can also be spotted in other areas of Dapeng with low light pollution and well-preserved vegetation.
Fireflies spotted at Xichong International Dark Sky Community in Dapeng New Area. Photos from WeChat official account "爱大鹏"
Observation tips
● The best viewing time is between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
● Check the weather forecast before heading out, as fireflies tend to hide during rainy conditions.
● Fireflies thrive in pristine grassy areas or forests. Wear long sleeves, pants, and high-top shoes to prevent mosquito and snake bites. To protect fireflies' habitat, avoid using mosquito repellent.
● While observing fireflies, keep your voice low, do not catch them, and avoid shining flashlights directly at them. If you need light for walking, use a red light to minimize disturbance.
How to photograph fireflies
Smartphone: Use the “star trail” or “light painting” mode on your camera app. A tripod or selfie stick is recommended for long-exposure shots.
Camera: A medium focal length lens (50mm, 85mm, or 105mm) with a wide aperture (f/1.4 or f/1.2) is ideal for capturing dreamy bokeh effects.
Fireflies spotted at Xichong International Dark Sky Community.
Other destinations
Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory (深圳天文台)
The observatory offers stunning coastal views, advanced astronomical facilities, and stargazing opportunities. It requires reservations via its WeChat official account (ID: shenzhentianwen).
Xichong Beach (西涌沙滩)
Quieter than Dameisha and Xiaomeisha beaches, Xichong Beach stretches 5 kilometers with four entrances. Entrances No. 1 and No. 3 are great for swimming, No. 2 is perfect for beach sports and photography, and No. 4 is ideal for surfing.
Food and accommodations
Be sure not to miss Dapeng's local seafood specialties. Recommended dishes include boiled red shrimps(白灼红虾仔), kiln-roasted chicken (窑鸡), and fried rice with sea urchin (海胆炒饭) . Comfortable accommodations are available in various inns throughout the villages.
Getting there
By bus: Take bus E11 to Nan'ao Moon Bay Stop (南澳月亮湾站), then transfer to bus M232 to Hesou Village Stop (鹤薮村站). For weekend and holiday lines, check the “e巴出行” WeChat miniprogram and then select “景区专线” and “西涌(天文台)专线.”
By car: Use “新屋村” as a navigation keyword. Vehicles entering Dapeng on weekends and holidays must obtain a pass via the Shenzhen Traffic Police WeChat account (ID: szjjwx)
