What does your typical day look like, and how are you involved with snowboarding?

I raise two sons while running a beauty-related company. On holidays or when it snows, I enjoy snowboarding and also participate as a coach in Yonex lessons. I sometimes go to the mountains to test my company’s outdoor sunscreen. Snowboarding is an important part of my life, connecting both my work and my hobby.

What was the turning point that led you to become an instructor?

The turning point in my competitive career came when I crashed into a tree while backcountry riding, resulting in a serious facial fracture that required surgery. Experiencing the dangers of snowboarding in nature firsthand sparked a desire to teach the next generation not only the techniques and joys of the sport but also its risks. This inspired me to launch the kids’ snowboard school, TREASURE CAMP.

What was the turning point in your active career?

Becoming pro at the Masters held in Tenjindaira during the inaugural year of the snowboard cross Pro system made me take snowboarding as a “competition” seriously. I remember practicing halfpipe and park more than anyone, not just freeriding. Developing all-around skills back then laid the foundation for why I’m still called upon today for development testing and coaching.

How did you feel when your students started succeeding as pros?

When my students started succeeding as pros, I had stepped away from the snow temporarily due to childbirth and childcare. I wasn’t able to be there to cheer them on in person, but seeing those kids who had once practiced so hard with their small bodies competing confidently on the big stage as pros filled me with pride. I was deeply moved, as if they were my own children. When they personally thanked me during a victory interview, tears just flowed. It was the most rewarding moment I could imagine as a coach.

How did your style evolve through your encounter with Yonex and working together?

I was introduced to Yonex snowboards through a recommendation from President Hayakawa of my affiliated shop, "FREAK," located in Gifu Prefecture. At the time, full-carbon boards were rare, and I was instantly struck by their distinctive rebound and addictive ride feel.
After that, when I was selected as Yonex's first snowboard cross rider, my commitment to the sport deepened to the point where I resolved, "If I don't make the podium even once in a season, I'll retire immediately." That belief—that I would never let my cross results slip—became the driving force that sustained my competitive career.

How has your riding style changed through co-developing products with the brand?

Even as I've gotten older, I refuse to play it safe. By riding diverse terrain, I’ve gained a deeper, user-centered perspective on gear. I truly feel there’s a style of riding that’s only possible because of who I am now.

What aspects of Yonex snowboards suit your style?

Having ridden Yonex snowboards for nearly 30 years, I still love their carbon graphite and aramid honeycomb construction. The distinctive rebound and finely balanced torsion unique to carbon make them ideal for a freerider like me. They deliver great drive through the latter half of turns and dependable rebound when pressed, allowing me to ride any slope with confidence. I still remember being amazed by the honeycomb structure back then, thinking, “So this is how they achieve such lightness!”