Conwy, North Wales – On Sunday, 18th August 2024, the ancient walls of Conwy Castle became the setting for a remarkable fusion of cultures, as East met West in an event that will be remembered for years to come. This celebration marked six years since the twinning of Conwy Castle with Himeji Castle in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture, bringing together the rich histories and traditions of these two iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Chevalier Rodney Davies and Brother Marc Roberts
The twinning, which began in 2018, was officially celebrated in Japan with ceremonies in 2019. Since then, the bond between Conwy and Himeji has grown stronger, culminating in this spectacular event that was organised by the Knights Templar of England & Wales, with special thanks to Fr. Marc Roberts and Chev. Rodney Davies, the day aimed to honour this cultural connection while raising vital funds for Tŷ Gobaith, North Wales' only children's hospice.
A Day of Unity and Cultural Exchange
The day was a vibrant fusion of Medieval and Oriental traditions, with activities that engaged and delighted attendees of all ages. The Mayor of Conwy, Cllr Janette Hughes, was among the distinguished guests, joining in the festivities and witnessing first-hand the community’s embrace of this unique celebration.
Cllr. Hughes said:"It was a wonderful experience to see our community come together in such a unique celebration."
Highlights video of the event.
Visitors to the castle were treated to a series of awe-inspiring demonstrations and interactive experiences that brought both history and heritage to life. The event highlights included:
Sword Displays and "Have a Go" Sessions: Expert demonstrations of medieval and Japanese swordsmanship captivated the audience, with many seizing the opportunity to try their hand at the ancient arts under the guidance of skilled practitioners.
Tengu Taiko Drummers: The powerful rhythms of Japanese taiko drums echoed through the castle grounds, performed by the renowned Tengu Taiko Drummers. Their performance was a mesmerising spectacle that drew large crowds and enthusiastic applause.
The Whipperginnies: This talented troupe of medieval troubadours added a truly authentic atmosphere to the day with their lively performances of music, song, and dance. Their presence transported attendees back in time, enriching the overall experience with the sounds and spirit of the medieval period.
Fay Goodman’s Samurai Demonstrations: Fay Goodman, a 7th Dan Lady Samurai, showcased her extraordinary martial arts skills, leaving the audience in awe with her precise and powerful techniques.
Samurai Photoshoots: A unique experience for many, attendees had the chance to don samurai armour or medieval gear and step into a 360-degree photography setup, capturing a moment that bridged two worlds.
Interactive Zones: Visitors of all ages engaged in various activities, from ninja star throwing to archery, and even participated in the Ardudwy Knights School and learned about Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) from Red Dragon Fight School.
The day wasn’t just about entertainment; it was a celebration of shared heritage, unity, and community spirit. Conwy Castle, with its imposing walls and storied history, provided the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrated both the differences and commonalities between two distant cultures.
A Historic Day for a Noble Cause
Beyond the cultural exchange, the event had a noble purpose at its heart. The Knights Templar of England & Wales dedicated the day to raising funds for Tŷ Gobaith, a cause close to the hearts of many in the region. The generosity of the attendees and the dedication of the organisers ensured that the event was not only a success in terms of entertainment but also in supporting the vital work of the hospice.
In Closing
The 18th of August 2024 will be remembered as a day when Conwy Castle once again became a place of historic significance, not just for Wales, but for the world. The Knights Templar of England & Wales, alongside the community of Conwy, demonstrated that the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange can transcend time and distance, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Long may this event continue to grow and evolve, bringing the world closer together, one shared experience at a time.
If you are interested in joining the Knights Templar of England and Wales you can find more information and an application form on our “join us” page found here.
More images of the event to follow.
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