Stepping stones were once classified into five groups but nowadays there is frequent departure from tradition. They are used
as a causeway over low-lying or bog gardens, sometimes to cross
streams or rivers and from shore to nearby island when they are
called Tobi-ishi (18) or Jumping Stones.
All the major stones in the garden have their own special kind
of tree which has a companion name to that of the stone. Shrubs
are frequently used with minor stones in any way to enhance the
beauty of the garden.
LANTERNS AND WATER-BASINS
The Stone Lantern (19) is a familiar feature. There are
six main styles but many variations and sizes. The accepted
rule is that their general design and appearance should be in
complete harmony with any other building features in the
garden. The Tukimo Doro Snow Scene Lantern is unusual
and very decorative with a large roof that is supposed to keep
off the snow; this lantern is usually placed under a weeping tree
and near the water.
Water-basins also are characteristic and, like lanterns, are
designed to harmonize with their surroundings. There are, however, two distinct types. The Tsuku Bai is designed for little
arbours by the side of pathways in the tea-garden; the Chozo
Bachi is the ceremonial water-basin which is placed near buildings ; two stepping stones are placed in front and the host stands
on the right-hand stone and offers water to the guest who stands
on the left-hand stone.
TREES
The principal trees are the Sho-shin-Boku (20) Guardian
Stone Tree, tall and straight type; the Taki-soye-Boku (21)
Cascade Screening Tree, low and spreading; the Distance
Tree (22), pine or oak; the Perfection Tree (23), elegant
stately profile; the Tree of Solitude (24), fairly tall and
shade providing; the Setting Sun Tree (25), preferably of
red-tinted foliage like Japanese maple and positioned so that it
casts long shadows over the lake; the Outstretching Tree
(26), a pine tree with branches overhanging the water.
Evergreen trees are used in the middle-distance for perspective
effect and as a background to the garden. Most of the trees will
be found on the hills shown on the left-hand side of the drawing
because in the full-scale landscape they are usually found in such
a position to act as a windbreak. Trees are selected very carefully for contrasts in colour and shape, and a weeping willow or
wistaria is usually included to overhang the water.
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