Stepping stones, Tobi-ishi (飛石) in Japanese, are an essential part of the traditional Japanese garden. In contrast to ordinary garden paths, walking on stepping stones requires more concentration. This has a positive influence on the way people experience the garden. In addition, people cannot walk side by side on a path of stepping stones, eliminating potential distractions. In a tea garden, this also ensures that people do not arrive at the tea house at exactly the same time before the start of the tea ceremony.

Step paths were introduced by Sen no Rikyū, a very famous historical figure who is considered to be the founder of the tea ceremony. The original idea behind stepping stones was to keep the Zōri, traditional Japanese sandals, clean and dry while walking through the garden.

This stepping stone can be used beautifully at the beginning, end or split of a path of stepping stones. In addition, it can also function as Mae-ishi, the stepping stone for the Chōzubachi in a traditional Tsukubai arrangement.

Hirukawa is an authentic Japanese granite originating from the town of Hirukawa, which has been part of Nakatsugawa City in Gifu Prefecture since 2005. Hirukawa granite is very commonly used in the Japanese garden for elements such as stone lanterns, Chōzubachi and bridges. But loose Hirukawa stones can also be used beautifully as decorative stones.

Specifications
- Depth = 24.41 inches
- Width = 21.65 inches
- Height = 5.51 inches

- Origin: Hirukawa, Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
- Material: Hirukawa stone (蛭川石)