Celebrating Will Adams
The bond between Medway and Japan began with Will Adams.
Will Adams established the first trading link between Britain and Japan and each year thousands of residents and visitors celebrate maritime history and Japanese culture at the Will Adams Festival in Gillingham Park.
Adams, born in Gillingham, joined the Navy and set sail as Chief Navigator on flagship Hope in 1598. In 1600 his ship ran aground on the Japanese Island Kyushu.
Though he was captured and imprisoned as a pirate, the Shogun appointed him as a trusted aide and diplomatic advisor because of his knowledge of shipbuilding and navigation, binding Medway and Japan.
This year’s festival will be held on Saturday, 7th September at Gillingham Park, from 11:00am to 4:30pm - FREE entry.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see and have a go at traditional Taiko drumming, Origami and Japanese martial arts. These martial arts originated in the warrior traditions of the Samurai. Adams himself was awarded the honoured title of Samurai when he proved himself to be a knowledgeable and trusted advisor.
There will also be a history exhibition on display, created by St. Mary’s Magdalene Church at Gillingham Green, where Adams was christened.
The Will Adams Festival introduces residents to an important part of Medway’s history, allowing them to learn about, and experience, contemporary Japanese culture.
Cllr Howard Doe, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said:
“We are excited to, once again, celebrate our close connection with Japan at our annual Will Adams festival. It is important that we continue to recognize Medway’s cultural heritage. I am looking forward to seeing our residents learning, experiencing and celebrating our maritime history and Japanese culture.”
Getting to the festival
There will be limited adjacent street parking or you can easily get to Gillingham Park by public transport.
You can get the following buses:
• 101 to Jeffrey Street (5 minute walk to park)
• 182 to Gillingham High Street (15 minute walk to park)
• 116 to Canterbury Street (1 minute walk to park)
• 132 to Jezreels (3 minute walk to park).
Please note these are all estimated times.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads.
Please note these are all estimated times.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads.
For more information about the festival visit: www.medway.gov.uk/willadams
Medway Council
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