Guida
Heart Castle (Lockheart Castle) is a unique theme park featuring a historic residence built in 1829 by Earl William Lockhart in Scotland, which was dismantled, transported, and rebuilt in Japan. Over a six-year period from 1987 to 1993, the structure was carefully moved piece by piece to its current location in Takayama Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture. The vast 100,000-square-meter estate recreates a medieval European townscape. The sudden appearance of stone architecture and lush greenery amidst the Japanese landscape provides visitors with an extraordinary, otherworldly experience.
The most striking feature of this castle is that it is not a mere replica, but an authentic historical building. It strictly adheres to the Scottish Baronial architectural style, maintaining the heavy, dignified atmosphere that symbolizes British aristocratic culture. While there were once plans to relocate it to Hokkaido, it was ultimately rebuilt in its current location. The site has also served as a filming location for numerous movies, dramas, and commercials, and the history of famous actors and musicians visiting the site adds to its profound cultural depth.
The estate is dotted with diverse collections and facilities. A primary attraction is the "World Santa Museum," which houses an extraordinary collection of over 1,100 Santa Claus figures from around the globe. The "World Castle Library" contains approximately 1,000 books related to castles, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of history. At "Teddy's House," you can find a collection of 200 teddy bears gathered from overseas. Additionally, the beautiful stone "St. Lawrence Church," the jewelry collection, and the signature gallery offer rich cultural displays in exquisite detail.
Heart Castle reveals a different face with each season. In spring and summer, the lush greenery enhances the texture of the stone walls, creating a beautiful contrast against the blue sky. In autumn, the European-style architecture creates a nostalgic and emotional landscape alongside the surrounding colorful foliage. The bright daylight hours are ideal for photography, as the details and colors of the buildings are most vivid. Visiting spots like the "Lovers' Spring" or "Spring Bell" during quieter times allows for a more peaceful and serene stroll.
Exploring the vast grounds is an activity in itself. Walking through the medieval European-style streets and taking photos against the backdrop of stone buildings and cobblestones is a beloved experience for many visitors. The site also includes shops and restaurants where you can relax in an atmosphere that complements the castle's aesthetic. Observing the historical architecture and the global collections (Santas, teddy bears, and castle books) provides a meaningful cultural learning experience.
Heart Castle is located in the nature-rich Takayama Village in Gunma Prefecture. The area offers various sightseeing routes that can be combined with nearby spots such as Kiyotsu Gorge or the Kawaba Denen Plaza roadside station. Because it is situated in a mountainous region, the landscape is beautifully integrated with the surrounding natural environment.
As the grounds are extensive and include cobblestones and unpaved areas, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please choose clothing appropriate for the season. Regarding payments, while credit cards and IC cards may be used, availability can vary by season or specific facility; it is advisable to check in advance. For photography, while capturing the scenery is encouraged, please respect the rules regarding specific exhibits and designated areas.