
Japanese gardens assume their beauty by combining material such as sand, rocks, and natural plants. There are several different types of gardens that contain different objects, for example, a karesansui is a waterless rock and sand garden, whereas a Kaiyu-Shikien is a pleasure garden that are mostly used by the public.
Japanese gardens often promote tranquility and are used for relaxation. The outdoors promotes stress reduction and mental relaxation, which is beneficial for optimum health. Nature is considered one of the most health benefiting places to be.
Japanese gardens are based on concepts such as: smaller scale, symbolization, and borrowed views. Rocks may be used to symbolize a mountain and raked sand may be used as a symbol for a stream or river. When implementing this type of design into an outdoor location, research different symbols and meanings associated with certain garden elements to project the desired image.