Japan’s Ambassador Goes Viral After Stepping Into Peaky Blinders World

Japanese ambassador to the United Kingdom Hiroshi Suzuki drew widespread attention online after visiting the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley dressed in the signature style of the hit BBC series Peaky Blinders.

Wearing a flat cap and period clothing alongside his well-known Paddington Bear companion, Suzuki toured the historic site, which showcases more than 250 years of regional industrial history and served as a filming location for the BAFTA-winning show.

The visit combined cultural engagement with diplomatic messaging. During the tour, Suzuki watched traditional chain-making, sampled classic British food such as fish and chips and learned local West Midlands phrases, moments that were widely shared across social media platforms.

Officials hope the coverage will encourage Japanese tourists to visit the region.

Beyond the viral visuals, Suzuki highlighted economic ties between Japan and the West Midlands, noting that roughly 40 Japanese companies operate in the area, supporting jobs and investment.

Since his appointment in 2024, Suzuki has built a reputation for using social media-friendly visits — from football matches to regional landmarks — to showcase British culture to Japanese audiences.