Japanese Day at Chiddingstone Castle on 7th July 2013

On Sunday 7th July, Chiddingstone Castle in Kent is hosting their annual Japanese Day. It promises to be a fascinating and enjoyable day out for all age groups, with exciting demonstrations of both kyudo (Japanese archery) and two kinds of Japanese sword arts, Tameshigiri and Iai. For the green-fingered, there will be displays of beautiful ikebana (flower arranging), along with a demonstration of how to care for bonsai trees and there is an interesting exhibition by the Japanese Garden Society. Plus, musicians in kimono will put on a recital of traditional Japanese music using shakuhachi, koto and shinobue instruments in the grand Great Hall. Children will be able to get involved too by getting creative with Origami and other arts and crafts. They are also bound to be excited by the Castle’s amazing accumulation of Samurai warriors’ swords and armour.

As well as all of this, Japanese Day will feature the opening of Chiddingstone Castle’s display on shogi (Japanese chess boards) and there will be an opportuntiy to see its wonderful collection of Japanese lacquer, previously featured on several BBC television programmes including Bargain Hunt.

More information about this fantastic event can be found on the Castle’s website: 

Chiddingstone Castle

Text by Alice French, the Stephen Perse Foundation