Things I didn't try early on: Fully appreciating Japan's nature

One thing I have found myself getting really into over my years here is all things flowers. I don't know if that comes with the territory of getting older, or if it's because Japan has so many beautiful examples of nature, but it took me probably a year or so to really start scoping out all the incredible flower festivals here.

In part, I think that could be because of living right in downtown Tokyo for the first 12 months, and being surrounded by apartments and office buildings. I got here in 2013, and while the internet was obviously a thing then, there was nowhere near the wealth of information and as many online sources to find out about events and such. Either that, or I just didn't know where to look. 

A lovely lily festival out here in Uonuma, Niigata

I think even if you live in Tokyo, though, there are ways to get out into nature. For instance, Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa has some lovely flower displays throughout the year, or there are hiking opportunities at places like Mount Takao. I wish I'd known more about those places earlier on in my Japan life!