Hiroshi Suzuki also fostered political ties during his three-day visit here and met with senior Executive figures in Stormont, as he explored the best of what the country has to offer while indulging in a bit of sightseeing.
The ambassador is well known for getting fully involved in the many trips he makes around the UK, having previously been seen enthusiastically singing the Welsh national anthem during a trip to Wales earlier this year and tasting Irn Bru in Scotland.
During his latest excursion, Mr Suzuki took to social media — where he has an active presence — to document his travels in NI, first sharing a image of himself outside Belfast City Airport alongside a photo in which he is enthusiastically pointing at a Tayto vending machine.
The diplomat also visited Carrickfergus Castle
The envoy then made his way to the Giant’s Causeway, where he remarked on being “deeply moved by the magnificent scenery”.
While in Co Antrim, he also took a tour of one of the world’s oldest whiskey distilleries, Bushmills Distillery, learning about the drink-making process.
To complete his tour of the North Coast, Mr Suzuki visited Dunluce Castle alongside his beloved Paddington Bear, with which he is often pictured.
He also tried an Irish coffee
In a social media post, he said it was a “place filled with romance and history. Its appearance perched on the cliff was magnificent and I could feel its former glory. Also enjoyed the refreshing breeze and beautiful scenery walking along the Portrush coastline.”
The diplomat was later greeted by Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Junior Minister Aisling Reilly at Stormont Castle.
A spokesperson from the Northern Ireland Executive said: “The ambassador is on a three-day visit to Northern Ireland and discussions focused on trade and investment, including the contribution of Japanese businesses currently operating here, and cultural connections.”
The envoy tried some of the local cuisine
Mr Suzuki added: “Pleasure to meet Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Junior Minister Aisling Reilly… Enjoyed fruitful discussions on a wide range of topics including economic and cultural ties between Japan and Northern Ireland.”
Mr Suzuki at the Titanic Museum
‘Hate incident’ Co Tyrone bonfire topped with migrant effigy lit
Mr Suzuki also took the time to visit Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots to discuss ways of “strengthening relations between Japan and Northern Ireland”.
The ambassador also tasted some of the local food and drink on offer by ordering an Ulster Fry and an Irish coffee and documented his attempt of ‘splitting the G’ while enjoying a pint of Guinness.
Mr Suzuki with the Deputy First Minister and Junior Minister
Other visited hotspots included Carrickfergus Castle as well as the Titanic building, which “mesmerised” him.
Northern Irish-based Japanese businesses, including Fujitsu, electronic components manufacturer Kyocera AVX, Nihon Cyber Defence and Ryobi Aluminium Casting, also welcomed the envoy to their sites.