Island Component: "Even in the spring mists one hears the sounds of water trickling through the rocks." Sokan

Islands are a very important part of the Japanese garden, as well as the Japanese tradition for a number of reasons. To begin with, they are representative of the isles of the Blest which is the residence of the immortal souls. For the living, they represent longevity and good health, and it is for this reason that they are often used as focal points of ponds. In small ponds, islands can be as simple as a rock jutting out of the water giving an interesting image above the ponds surface. In large ponds, an island can be made of

rock and earth and covered in foliage creating an image that will add depth and personality to the pond. Some islands are made large enough to support a bridge from the main garden out to the island. Built up islands often take the shape of the tortoise which is believed to live for a ten thousand years, and also the shape of the crane which is believed to live for a thousand years. Regardless of the significance of the number of years, these designs are very popular in the design of Japanese Zen gardens.