Japanese sunken landscape design, also known as a sunken garden or kotatsu, is a traditional Japanese garden feature. It involves lowering a section of the garden below ground level to create a more intimate and secluded space. This design typically includes a water feature, stepping stones, and sometimes a small pavilion or bridge. The sunken garden is a symbol of tranquility and harmony with nature, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic of yūgen (mysterious beauty) and wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection).