Design Meanings
| Water | Water represents the lifeblood of the garden. Just as it moves in the water cycle (evapoarting and falling back to earth) it moves in the garden, from pond to pond, carried by streams. Water also offers a chance for reflection. An observer can see their reflection in a still pond, and can also pause to reflect on themselves internally. The water in the garden also represents purity and cleanliness, both of the body and the mind. |
| Stones and Rocks | Rocks make up the skeletal structure of the garden. They give it mass and stability. Rocks also create obstacles which force the observer to change direction, and possibly encounter another feature in the garden. Weathered rocks give the garden a sense of old age; they can make the garden feel older than it is. The Japanese also believe that rocks house dieties. So, they study the placement of rocks in depth, because if placed improperly they could upset the gods. |
| Soil |
The soil is the "skin" of the garden. It helps to hold everything together. |
| Fences |
Fences help to guide the observer along the path. Often times, fences are made of bamboo to keep a naturalistic feeling in the garden. |