The placement of stones is significant in Japanese design, providing structure and a sense of scale. Stones can be used represent cranes, tortoises or fish. A bamboo fence can be used as screening to hide an unattractive feature, or as a backdrop for plants such as this Japanese maple. If the garden were used at night, Japanese lanterns would provide the light in the garden and so they are properly placed in locations wherever light would be most useful, such as along a pathway, next to a gateway or by a stairway. But their most magical use is to create a reflection in a pond.
Japanese lanterns come in many styles, each with unique symbolism and significance.
Those that appear weathered and aged by the natural elements are especially valued by the Japanese. Still water may run deep, but it also evokes a feeling of calmness. Some waters in Japanese gardens are quiet, but in other gardens water moves more rapidly. A simple bamboo water flume can bring the element of running water to any garden. T he Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon, reputed to be the most authentic Japanese-style public garden outside of Japan, was designed by Takuma Tono of Tokyo and built in the 1960's.