Guide
Heartland Castle (formerly known as Lockheart Castle) is a unique theme park featuring a historic residence originally built in 1829 by William Lockhart, 10th Earl of Lockhart, in Scotland. The structure was painstakingly dismantled, transported, and reconstructed in Takayama Village, Aguma District, Gunma Prefecture, a process that took six years between 1987 and 1993. Spanning a massive 100,000 square meters, the site recreates a medieval European townscape. The sight of stone architecture emerging from the lush Japanese greenery offers visitors a truly extraordinary, otherworldly experience.
The most striking feature of this castle is that it is not a mere replica, but an authentic historical building. The architecture strictly adheres to the Scottish Baronial style, preserving the dignified and heavy atmosphere characteristic of British aristocratic culture. While there were once plans to relocate the structure to Hokkaido, it was ultimately rebuilt in its current location in Gunma. The site has served as a popular filming location for numerous movies, dramas, and commercials, and its history of hosting famous actors and musicians adds to its profound cultural depth.
The estate is home to several diverse and fascinating collections. A primary attraction is the "World Santa Museum," which houses an incredible collection of over 1,100 Santa Claus figures from around the globe. For history enthusiasts, the "World Castle Library" contains 1,000 books related to castles, offering a deeper understanding of fortification history. Visitors can also enjoy "Teddy's House," which displays 200 unique teddy bears collected from overseas. Other notable sites include the beautiful stone-built "St. Lawrence Church," various jewelry collections, and a signature gallery, all of which provide a rich, detailed cultural experience.
Heartland Castle reveals a different face with every season. In spring and summer, the surrounding greenery enhances the texture of the stone walls, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky. In autumn, the European-style architecture is framed by the vibrant colors of the changing leaves, creating a nostalgic and emotional landscape. For the best photography, visit during bright daylight hours to capture the fine details and colors of the buildings. Visiting the "Lovers' Spring" or the "Spring Bell" during quieter times of the day allows for a more peaceful and contemplative stroll.
Exploring the vast grounds is an activity in itself. Walking through the medieval-style streets and posing for photos against the backdrop of historic stone buildings is a favorite pastime for many visitors. The estate also features shops and restaurants where you can relax in an atmosphere that complements the castle's aesthetic. Whether you are admiring the world-class collections of Santas, teddy bears, or castle literature, every moment offers a blend of leisure and cultural learning.
Located in the scenic Takayama Village of Gunma Prefecture, the castle is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. You can easily combine a visit to the castle with other nearby attractions, such as the Kiyotsu Gorge or the Kawaba Denen Plaza roadside station, to create a comprehensive sightseeing itinerary through the mountains of Gunse.
Because the grounds are vast and include cobblestone paths and uneven surfaces, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please dress appropriately for the season. Regarding payments, while credit cards and various electronic money options are generally accepted, availability may vary by specific facility or season, so checking in advance is advised. While photography of the scenery is encouraged, please respect the rules regarding specific exhibits and restricted areas to help preserve this historical site.