Water is to be flowing over rock or a wall naturally, or still in a pond reflecting the strength of the rock. Water replaces the grass or lawn seen in many European and American gardens. To the Chinese a grassy field would represent a grazing area for cattle, not a place of contemplation. Making a garden in China usually means piling or arranging rock, and digging ponds. These are essential.
Plants are a third element.
Trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs are selected for their beauty, mystical representation, and form. The poetry of Yuan Ye describes the beauty of plants integrated into the garden. When the morning breeze flows through the willows, the latter bend like the slender waists of dancing girls. Before the window one plants bamboo, and between the courtyards pear trees. The moonlight lies like glittering water over the countryside.