Mt. Oritsumedake is crowned with primeval forest of broad-leafed beech and Mongolian oak trees, and its summit is blessed with natural springs. The moist earth makes it the perfect breeding ground for terrestrial himebotaru fireflies. In fact, it is the largest of such areas in the Tohoku region. Visit in early to mid-July and you will see sharp, fiery flashes of light throughout the forest at night. Every year during the peak season, Ninohe City, Karumai Town and Kunohe Village offer shuttle bus tours with volunteer guides for taking in the beautiful nightscape.