Designing and creating Japanese gardens - Penny Underwood

For the Japanese, the garden is a microcosm of the world, rich in symbols; it is also the perfect expression of their affinity with nature. Explaining the spiritual and philosophical symbolism of the Japanese garden, this book also tells how the Western gardener can recreate its beauty and serenity. Among the topics are history, philosophy, and spirituality; changing styles, designs, and fusui?from pavements and stepping stones to gateways and lanterns; plants and planting?the importance of the cultivation, choice, positioning, and care of plants; water and structural features; and the gardens of Japan, with advice on gardening in the West.