Microdosing your seasonal blooms

Japan's seasonal flower fields are undoubtedly breathtaking, and I've had the chance to see quite a few incredible ones, but not everyone can take a day off, hop on a train, and make the trek to see them. I've learned that sometimes life gets in the way of those big, Instagram-worthy trips, but that's where I think hanachozu can come in as a satisfying substitute.

Unlike a sprawling field, hanachozu feel small (in a good way!) and intimate. You don't need to plan a whole day or budget for a trip across prefectures, since you can often find them them during your lunch break or if you're out for a weekend stroll. At a number of my local shrines, seasonal flowers rotate just as they would in a field, with blooms like sunflowers in summer, chrysanthemums in autumn, and camellias in winter. 

I think they're also a nice little reminder that Japan's appreciation for nature isn't a "bigger is better" approach like some countries go for, but often about finding beauty in the little moments. If you can't make it to a famous flower spot, I would highly recommend a hanachozu visit to give you that seasonal spark!