I read this book after I returned from sakura season in Kyoto in Apr 2019. The 2019 edition is excellent! It has a nice balance of beautiful colour photos and narrative. The Youngs have written an excellent book. First part is on the basic elements and principles of a Japanese Garden.
One learns that Shinto shrines are built based on the use of natural materials such as thatch and unpainted wood, raising structures on wooden posts and a preference for simplicity and uncluttered place. With the introduction of Buddhism in the 6th century, many Shinto shrines were influenced by Buddhist temple architecture such as curved roofs and vermilion coloured wood. {p 53 and 55}.
The 2nd part gives an overview of the various styles of a Japanese garden with a selection of the most notable gardens within each genre. The end result is a very illuminating history and culture of Japanese most famous gardens. This is a book to read before and or bring when you visit Kyoto and Nara.