CONWY Castle is set to become a vibrant arena where east meets west in a spectacular celebration of culture and history.

On August 18, the castle will host an event to honour its twinning with Japan’s Himeji Castle, bringing together the best of medieval and oriental traditions in a day filled with excitement and discovery.

The event, organised by Marc Roberts and Rodney Davies of the Knights Templar of England and Wales, hopes to enchant visitors with an array of activities, demonstrations, and interactive sessions that cater to all ages.

It also aims to raise funds for the North Wales-based children's hospice, Tŷ Gobaith – a JustGiving page for the event has also been set up: www.justgiving.com/page/castle-charity-event.

Rodney Davies said: "Conwy has never seen anything like this.

“It's going to be a completely unique event, with zones inside the castle where people can immerse themselves in medieval and Japanese sword skills using safe, non-live blades.

“The music zone will feature the powerful Tengu Taiko Drummers, and the Whipperginnies a troupe of multi-period mediaeval troubadours, who, through music, song and dance, guarantee to instil into you and your guests the true spirit of the Middle Ages.

“We are honoured to have Fay Goodman, the renowned 7th Dan Lady Samurai, performing - she's the only woman outside Japan to achieve Samurai status.

“Those walls are going to rock!"

Activities for people to enjoy at the castle on August 18 include:

  • Sword displays and "have a go" sessions – witness demonstrations of medieval and Japanese swordsmanship, then try your hand at these skills under expert guidance.
  • Tengu Taiko Drummers - feel the thunderous rhythm of live Japanese drumming.
  • Fay Goodman’s samurai demonstrations - the only non-Japanese woman to attain Samurai status will be showing off her skills.
  • Samurai photoshoots - Immersive shoots where participants can don Samurai and medieval gear with 360 photography.
  • Interactive zones - explore different areas of the castle dedicated to various cultural activities, including sword arts, ninja star throwing, archery and the Ardudwy knights school.

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Marc Roberts, a practitioner of Iaido (the art of drawing the sword), added: "We’re incredibly proud to support Tŷ Gobaith with this celebration.

“We'll have QR codes for donations available in each zone and collection buckets on the day.

“Many dedicated individuals are giving their time and travelling great distances to be part of this, demonstrating the true spirit of community and charity.

“We're even exploring the possibility of taking a similar event to Japan or making this an annual celebration."

Andy Everley, fundraising team leader for Tŷ Gobaith, added: "We are delighted the Knights Templar have chosen us as their charity for this fantastic event.

“Their support in the past has been invaluable, and we greatly appreciate it. We hope visitors from around the world enjoy this extraordinary day.

“Every penny raised will help us continue providing the best care, respite, and counselling services to local families in need."

The UNESCO World Heritage site will open as usual on August 18, with the twinning celebrations running from 10am to 4pm.