I'm not a flower person, and the idea of going to see a bunch of them doesn't make me want to jump off my sofa. Yet somehow I ended up in Tachikawa's Showa Kinen Park during its spring Flower Festival, and it was one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen: a kaleidoscope of colors spread in all directions. And it goes on and on and on, each area more beautiful than the last. A true artform is on display here, as the thought of which flowers should go next to others is something I'd never considered much, but was in awe of the results. Between the spring air, the fresh scents and the natural beauty, this is one event sure to put a smile on everyone's face. The Flower Festival lasts from late March to late May, as different types of flowers take turns blooming.