Hiroko was born in a rural city of Northern Japan. She is a trained certified chef in Japan.  She practices Zen simple foods, macrobiotic food, and has been a Miso Maker for over 20 years. She is passionate about local organic food.

Hiroko also works with a non-profit organization group called Sierra Harvest as an educator/cooking class facilitator in local schools in her area.  She is also involved with local tribes teaching young children nature survival skills.