LEGO Commemorates Japan’s Most Famous Castle With Stately 2,125-Piece Model
Anyone who has been to Japan will have likely walked in the proximity of Himeji Castle, the nation’s most iconic and most-visited castle.
The historical hilltop structure has been standing since its construction in 1333. And despite being designed in the feudal period as a fort with sophisticated defensive systems, Himeji Castle was never attacked. The samurai stronghold even survived a deadly bombing in World War II, and several natural disasters.
The only instances when the castle was knocked down were initiated by the province’s rulers themselves, in 1346 and 1601, for the sake of improving on it. Centuries on, Himeji Castle serves as arguably the finest example of Japanese castle design, and a time-tested symbol of resilience.
Today, builders can intentionally take the castle apart and rebuild it to make it stronger and more beautiful, thanks to LEGO’s new kit that pays homage to the respected icon.
Created to mark the 30th anniversary of the castle being recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the majestic, 2,125-piece replica captures authentic architectural details like the turrets, asymmetric walls, and pathways of the pristine structure, which is often also referred to as White Egret Castle or White Heron Castle due to its brilliant white façade.
Image via LEGO
Part of LEGO’s Architecture series, the intricate heritage-inspired setup is ideal for “any lover of architecture, Japanese history, or travel,” notes the toymaker, and is envisioned to be an enjoyable challenge for adults.
To peer inside, fans will only need to lift the top section of the main building to find a pared-down interpretation of the castle’s interior.
And save yourself a flight ticket—the elaborate build is made to be admired all year round. It arrives with seasonal pieces to transport the gardens of the miniature castle into Japan’s springtime, with four buildable cherry trees that can be decorated with green foliage and pink cherry blossom bricks.
Standing only at a wee 7.48 inches tall, this build admittedly won’t be as relentless against unprecedented attacks as its muse, and may tumble when a dog makes a dash for it. The good news is it’s made to be knocked down and set up again, and there are no remodeling costs on top of the US$159.99 price.
The LEGO Architecture Himeji Castle will reach LEGO.com and participating retailers on August 1.
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[via SoraNews24 and Brick Fanatics, images via various sources]
