The 3-Stone Rule
Oyaishi (main stone) — largest, focal point. Off-center, golden ratio placement.
Fukuishi (second stone) — supports the Oyaishi.
Soeishi (third stone) — small, integrated, balances composition.
Variations: 5 stones (rare) or 7 stones (very advanced).
Stone Selection
Same TYPE of rock for all stones — no mixing Seiryu and Dragon stone.
Three different SIZES — large, medium, small.
Three different SHAPES — vertical, horizontal, irregular.
Plant Choice
Single carpet species: dwarf hairgrass, HC Cuba, Monte Carlo.
No background stem plants — stones are the focus.
Optional: small moss tufts on stones.
Substrate
Aqua soil throughout. Slope from front to back.
Sand around stones — visual contrast.
Why It's Hard
No second chances — wrong stone placement requires complete rescape.
Plants must be perfect carpet for the look to work.
Maintenance is unforgiving — one out-of-place leaf breaks the meditation.