Kabutomushi no Mori: A Natural Escape

Kabutomushi no Mori, nestled within the expansive Yamanashi Prefectural Forest Park Kanegawa-no-Mori, offers a tranquil escape into nature. This area, known as Beetle Forest, is dedicated to the observation and appreciation of local flora and fauna, particularly insects and birds. The park itself is located along the Kanegawa River, east of the Kofu Basin. Visitors can explore the forest's natural observation paths, seeking out Japanese beetles on oak trees in the early summer mornings. Mid-June marks the start of firefly season, with the chance to witness their luminescence at the Hotaruike pond after sunset. The park also features playground equipment like swings and jungle gyms. Kanegawa-no-Mori, where Kabutomushi no Mori is located, consists of six different themed areas. The park has a service center with visitor information. While exploring, it's important to respect the environment; the park encourages responsible insect collecting, with a focus on observation rather than large-scale removal of insects.