Karesansui is a type of zen garden, which unlike other traditional gardens, has no water present. There is extensive use of sand or gravel which is typically raked and symbolizes water. This interpretation could be the sea, ocean, rivers or lakes.

Raking the gravel into a pattern recalls waves or rippling water and is done for its aesthetic appeal. People typically practice this raking also to help their concentration and relaxation. It is difficult to create perfect lines, and by embracing this imperfection and creating variation in lines and patterns begins a often times challenging yet creative process.

Objects are placed in this interpretation of water to symbolically represent mountains, islands, boats, or even people. Often these gardens were meant to be viewed from a single vantage point from a seated position. In most gardens moss is used as a ground cover to create “land” covered by forest.

Zen garden

Zen rocks