Akiko received her engineering degree in Enology and Viticulture from the University of Geisenheim in 2009. Akiko's practical experience is split between the vineyard and cellar as well as between Germany and Oregon. Amongst the wineries where Akiko has gained her practical experience are in Oregon: Evesham Wood, St. Innocent and Domaine Serene. In Germany: Franz Keller, Schamari-Muehle, Heyl zu Herrnsheim, Chat Sauvage and Rudolph Fuerst.

Before her career-change to the wine industry, Akiko graduated from the prestigious Keio University and worked in Tokyo as an editor and journalist in the food and drink sector.