I can agree with that, Shinkai's main strength are his visuals over his story telling, even though he has improved in the latter. I think Shinkai still has a ways to before I can talk about him at the same level as someone like Miyazaki. I'd say anime directors who can considered at that level are Isao Takahata and Satoshi Kon (who I think is straight up the best, despite having his career get cut short).