Water, Ponds and Koi

 

Water is an important element in a Japanese Garden. 
Japan has many mountain streams.  A stream is usually designed to come from the East and flow to the Southwest bringing in good vibrations and carrying away the bad spirits. The sight and sound of its inexorable flow is there to remind us of the relentless passage of time. (Stream at Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, IL, designed by Hoichi Kirusu).

The seas of Japan: Ocean tides are continually moving the waters between the islands of Japan resulting in whirlpools. (Whirlpools are created in the Naruto Straight as large volumes of water move between the inland sea and the Pacific Ocean).

              Hill and pond strolling gardens are a basic style.
                           (Anderson Japanese Garden, Rockford, IL)

Koi
No garden would be complete without some koi to add an element of color and interest.

Koi are omnivorous fish, meaning they will eat anything. They can live a very long time. They become dormant in the Fall when the water temperature falls below 50F (10C).  Large, colorful koi are sold in Japan for thousands of dollars. (Teens feeding some Koi at Anderson Japanese Garden).