The connection is made because both forms of artistic expression centralized around themes of nature and tranquility. With the flurishment of Zen Buddhism in Japan, the rock garden also became a prominent art form. The intention of any Zen garden is to be a re-creation of nature itself and be a place of retreat for Zen Buddhist monks to contemplate the emptiness of the world around them. Everything in the garden is placed with great thought and purpose. Odd numbers of things are often used to convey a more natural and unordered feel to the garden.
Most gardens consist of large rocks placed on top of sand or gravel.
Vegetation such as Pine trees is sometimes also incorporated. Some gardens even have structural elements such as bridges and walkways that are used to represent specific Buddhist doctrines such as the noble eight-fold path. The rock garden at Ryoan-ji, exemplifies all of these characteristics with beauty and moderation. Although some speculation exists as to whether or not he is truly the creator, one can not deny the influence that he had on the garden, as he was the prominent figure of the subject back in the time this garden was made. This garden is one of the most powerful ever built, not because of grandeur, but for its beautiful simplicity.