The Japanese and Chinese are undoubtedly the masters of garden illusion. Here a range of mountains and
and a vulcanic peak are reflected in the shinning waters of the lake at the kaimyo stroll garden Suizen-ji in Kumamoto.
Japanese Gardeners use subtle and simple designs to represent the illusion of the natural world in miniture with the emphasis being on tranquillity and calm.
Colour, especially that of flowers, is kept to a minimum, while form and function are emphasised. Not for these gardeners the clutter and riot of the cottage garden or the overt excentricity of the English gnome collection.
A Japanese style garden should be a place of quiet reflection, with as little as possible to distrub contemplation. Simplicity is the key to this style, with 'more is less' being the most improtant principle.
GRAVEL, SAND & STONE
Gravel in a Japenese dry garden landscape usually represents water. Perhaps a serene sea, rapids, waterfalls or the trickle of a small stream.
The gravel is raked to form whirlpools, streams and waves and can be a wonderfully fluid looking medium.
Water polished pebbles can be used to represent fast flowing water within a garden setting. Boulders and rocks are often placed within the raked gravel to represent islands or to serve as simple stepping stones.
These gravel and stone gardens are austere and contemplative places with little or no ornamentation. They are also extremely restful as there is little to over excite the senses or distract the eye.
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