Feature elements could comprise any number of things - waterfall and pond, stone lantern, feature boulder, shaped tree, water bowl, stone island in a sea of gravel. The garden can imitate the wider landscape in miniature by the construction of artificial hills for tiny mountains and valleys, meandering pathways and streams. Viewing points are essential in the Japanese garden. The arrangement of features within the garden must consider the different views, and what will be seen from each viewing position.

Stone Lanterns have been used in temples, shrines and gardens in Japan since the 6th century.   Each style has its own unique symbolism and significance. Often placed in gardens that are used at night, they line a pathway, or are positioned next to a gate or by an entrance. Their most magical use is to create a reflection in a pond. One of the more interesting stone lanterns, the two legged "Kotoji", is named for its resemblance to the Japanese harp (Koto). It is positioned half on land and half in the water to symbolise the interdependence of the two.
Shakkei means borrowed scenery or views. When a background view that is outside or beyond the garden, such as a mountain or groupings of trees are used as an integral part of the scenic composition of the garden it is referred to as Shakkei.

With Shakkei, not only is the view used in the garden composition, but also the garden is designed to develop the relationship between the garden and the view, so that the view becomes more effective.
The idea is to visually extend the boundaries of the garden space.  

Philosophy of the Japanese garden      
Chinese and Japanese philosophy tell us that ones life can be lived more fully by being open to the universal rhythms of nature. A Japanese garden seeks to give us a tranquil setting for meditation and reflection.

Water: Water is often found in Japanese gardens, usually in the form of a waterfall, stream, and/or pond. Water is an essential element in the garden design, and even the use of small quantities such as a simple ceramic water bowl can achieve the right effect. Waterfalls bring life to the garden with movement and sound. In Japan, ponds represent the heart of the garden (Kokoro - the heart of things). Islands in ponds are important and symbolic. They represent longevity, good health and good luck.

Rocks: Rocks have great importance in a Japanese garden. The unchanging nature of rock suggests a solid presence. Rocks are considered to form the skeleton of a landscape, and are positioned before the plantings. Shapes and contours represent force and direction, these all have symbolic meaning.