Xichong in Nan’ao, known as China’s first international dark sky community, is hosting an early firefly season this year, with higher numbers of the insect than in previous years. The coastal area, surrounded on three sides by mountains and open to the sea, provides ideal habitats for yellow-striped fireflies.

The best viewing time is between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. along shaded riverbanks, village greens, and the Tianwen Road (天文路), where visitors can capture fireflies against the starry skies. Authorities urge visitors to avoid touching or taking fireflies, limit light interference, and follow safety precautions.

Xichong also offers diverse coastal experiences beyond fireflies. Visitors can explore the 5-kilometer-long Xichong Beach, panoramic viewpoints at Shenzhen Observatory and Wangyuling (望鱼岭), 15 kilometers of seaside cycling trails, cliffside restaurants like Bamboo, and the Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium with interactive exhibits.