Japanese Gardens: - are generally symbolic of many environmental features.

They utilize various designs and the use of boulders in different forms and sizes have symbolic meaning. 
 Raked sand beds usually around a smaller central feature are representative of a sea or lake surrounding an island and provide a very relaxed atmosphere. 
 Water features made from smooth boulders or bamboo are integral features of this type of garden as are bridges, tranquil koi ponds and occasionally dry river beds filled with pebbles. 

Japanese designed features such as benches, stepping stone lanterns and pots are de rigueur in the Japanese Garden,  Bamboo fences are used to differentiate parts of the garden of create pockets within the garden itself. 
 Maple and pine trees are commonly used as is the sacred bamboo (nandina domestica) as well as the dwarf variety, Nandina pygmae. 
 Moss, peace in the home, axaleas and a variety of ornamental grasses are frequently utilized.

Formal    Japanese    Tropical    Tuscan    Mediterranean