The 400th post! :a pine tree at the end of the paved path, Katsura Imperail Villa, Kyoto

This pine tree is planted just at the end of the path just close to the entrance of this Villa, Katsura Imperial Villa. Beyond the tree is stretching a pond, arranged in the center of the garden and surrounded with carefully placed trees and spatially-arrayed stepping stones, connecting a few rustic houses. Over the tree is the combination of beauty, made up with several elements, such as trees, houses, and stones around the pond.

The tree is positioned as if it would keep guests from enjoying the vista of the whole garden.

Why does it prevent us from seeing the scenery? Because it was there for guests to appreciate the changes of the scenery of the garden fully.

Without it, we would be able to see the whole garden very easily as soon as we enter the garden and take a few steps on the paved path. Viewing the whole garden is one of the most enjoyable things in the garden. Enjoying the whole scenery without any walk, "antipasto" for guests, would be just as we enjoy main dishes without antipasto or listening a symphony without the first movement.

Limiting the view is needed to appreciate the change of the view in the garden.