Our Profile

I was born in Kanagawa, Japan.
Due to a congenital heart condition, doctors told my parents I might not live long.
But thanks to many unseen blessings, I grew up with strength and vitality.

As a young adult, I worked hard—perhaps too hard.
One day, I collapsed from exhaustion and was diagnosed with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy, a rare and serious heart disease.
That moment changed everything.
To save my own life, I began studying Kampo (traditional Japanese herbal medicine), and eventually earned certifications as a Licensed TCM Practitioner, International TCM Dietitian, and Registered Seller of Medicines in Japan.

In 2005, I had the opportunity to join Kusuri-Nihondo, one of Japan’s leading Kampo pharmacies, where I gained invaluable experience in Kampo consultations and as a lecturer at their Kampo school.

Later, I married Hiroshi who is licensed acupuncturist, and together we decided to pursue an independent path.
In 2017, we opened Kakikofu—our small wellness clinic—in the heart of Jiyugaoka, a neighborhood I’ve always loved.
Thanks to the support of many kind people, our practice has grown and continues to evolve.

However, not long after opening the clinic, the strain of work began to take its toll on my heart.
I was hospitalized several times, underwent multiple surgeries, and was even advised by a cardiologist at the University of Tokyo Hospital to consider a heart transplant.

But I wasn’t ready to give up.
I told my doctors: “Let me first do everything I can using my own vitality—and the power of Kampo medicine.”
With the combined support of both Western and Eastern medicine, I continue to live a full life—working, learning, and sharing what I love.

These experiences have shaped our philosophy:
“Slow Living and Nourishment (Yōjō).”
In Eastern medicine, “Yōjō” means far more than just self-care.
It carries the profound and powerful meaning of “nourishing life itself.”
Within this tradition, yōjō comes first—medicine comes second.

Rather than waiting to treat illness, we cultivate vitality through daily living.
This is the heart of true healing in Eastern thought.
Together with my husband, we have chosen to shorten our business hours, work by appointment only, and move toward expanding our online services, so we can continue this journey sustainably.

Some people have said, “You take too many days off.”
And while we understand their concerns, we kindly ask for your understanding and support.There may be times I need to rest, be hospitalized, or recover quietly—but it is all part of staying healthy and continuing to help others.

If you see me smiling and working, please know: I’m living proof that even with a serious heart condition, one can still live with joy, purpose, and strength.