Hiroshi Suzuki has gained a large online following for his wholesome love of British culture and he continued that on his visit to Liverpool
The Japanese ambassador to the UK described a Scouse stew as 'boss scran' during a visit to Liverpool. Hiroshi Suzuki was treated to a bowl of traditional Scouse at Ma Boyle's alehouse in Liverpool city centre during his first formal trip to the city.
The ambassador, who has developed a large social media following for his light-hearted and wholesome posts about travelling around the UK, was joined by Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, who helped to teach him some of the local slang.
As well as enjoying a local dish, Ambassador Suzuki enjoyed a pint of bitter at Ma Boyle's, which he also described as 'boss'. During his official visit to Liverpool, he has also taken in the sights of Liverpool and Everton's stadiums.
He told the ECHO that visiting Liverpool was a dream because of his childhood love of The Beatles.
He said: "This is my first time getting to see the city. This is my dream come true, because I grew up on The Beatles. It is so fantastic."
Asked if he had a favourite Beatle, he added: "It's a tough call. I like them all."
Talking about his trip to Anfield Stadium, the ambassador spoke about how Liverpool fans have taken Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo into their hearts.
Hiroshi Suzuki, the Japanese ambassador to the UK, enjoying a bowl of Scouse with Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram
Hiroshi Suzuki, the Japanese ambassador to the UK, enjoying a bowl of Scouse with Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram
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He said: "Anfield is amazing. Wataru Endo is the captain of the Japanese national team and I am so glad to know that he is warmly embraced by the people of Liverpool."
After enjoying his pint, the ambassador sat down for a bowl of Scouse with Mayor Rotheram. Having tried a spoonful, he gave a big thumbs up and stated: "That's boss scran."
As well as the fun and games of trying local hospitality, Mayor Rotheram said there is an important element to strengthening ties between the Liverpool City Region and Japan.
He said: "There are many opportunities here in the city region. Some of the things the ambassador has asked me to convey in my meetings with the government next week are about how we can attract more investment into places like this city region."
He said one of these areas is the gaming industry, which Mayor Rotheram said is one of this region's 'hidden gems'.
He added: "Sony is here in Liverpool; they have invested heavily here and the ambassador is here to speak to them, which is obviously a Japanese business, but also to speak to people who are looking at new opportunities to bring investment into this area."