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context: gardens > general points > standard elements
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a famous rock at Daisen-in |
Rocks
Probably the single most indispensable element in the Japanese garden. Interestingly shaped rocks can be arranged on grass or gravel or in water, and you have a garden. They can substiture for islands; they often symbolize mountains and various other things; they act as paving stones in tea gardens in particular. There are many nationally famed rocks, including the boat-shaped one shown here.