Every element in the Japanese garden from the shape of the pruned pine trees to
the careful placement of stepping stones has intention and is specifically
designed to cultivate nuanced awareness. The contrast between what is placed and
what is left blank, brings to life a pictorial space that leaves room for our
imagination. Symbolism and metaphor in the garden also offer powerful tools to
help humans reconcile their own lives and relationships to both society and the
larger forces of nature.
The American garden scholar Kendall Brown argues that 'The opportunity for
direct engagement with nature is what makes all gardens compelling but, as
Japanese gardens function so effectively as philosophical and physical
microcosms, their power is even stronger.'
