Elements of the Japanese Garden

Because of the early cultural exchange, Japanese gardens incorporate many of the same elements as Chinese gardens, including rocks, water, plants, and structures. The arts, such as poetry and calligraphy, and wine or tea with friends are also important. But Japanese gardens have evolved to develop their own unique expression and style. Examples include the custom of flower viewing (cherry blossoms), moon viewing (night gardens or white sand gardens), an appreciation of gardens in all seasons, and the tea house. Concepts of proportion and “borrowed scenery” are also implemented. Christopher Thacker provides some interesting insights in The History of Gardens.

• Stones, gravel, sand – stones are the most important elements in the Japanese garden. They are used symbolically to represent islands or religious beings (such as Buddha and his disciples). They are used structurally to keep land in place, and in water features. They may be used as stepping stones on land, or as a bridge over water. The placement of the stones may suggest the pacing and nature of your walk (placed close together for a slow pace to meditate or observe details, or placed far apart for a fast pace to cover ground and look at the larger view). Raked sand or pebbles represent water, and are used to reflect moonlight.
• Lakes, streams, waterfalls – water features are frequently used. Lakes and ponds may be  home to Koi, and reflect the surroundings.
• Plants – an austere palate of plants includes evergreen trees, bamboo, and shrubs, with minimal reliance on flowering plants and shrubs. Still, flowering trees, iris, chrysanthemums, azalea and others make their way into the landscape. Japanese gardens also make use of moss of all kinds.
• Islands, bridges, paths – provide interest in the landscape, and lead the visitor through the different rooms or views of the garden. In a large garden, bridges may be highly arched to allow boats to glide under it.
• Structures and ornaments – gardens may include buildings, such as a tea house or a viewing platform for day or night time viewing of the garden and gathering with friends. Ornaments include stone lanterns (the large mushroom-shape top is to keep snow off the fire box), or small water features that provide the sound of water and attract birds and wildlife.

Look for some of these elements in the Rikugien Park garden in Tokyo.