NIWA

Garden Lexicon ・ Garden Concepts

Three Shunned Stones

三忌石

sankiseki

In a word

Three Shunned Stones is a concept or symbol that helps explain how Japanese gardens are composed and read.

Overview

Three Shunned Stones is a concept that helps read Japanese gardens. It points to symbolism, suggestion, empty space, and the experience of time within the garden.

A gardener's perspective

Three Shunned Stones is a clue for reading the garden. Its role becomes clearer when seen in context rather than as a word alone.

How to observe it in a garden

When observing Three Shunned Stones, look at the stone’s form, direction, height, and surrounding space. Notice where it stops the eye and what view it guides you toward.

Also known as

Three Shunned Stones

Related terms

References