Japan

Aki Sudo

Aki is the co-owner, sommelier and restaurant manager of Bistro Yoshimichi in Tokyo. Originally a bookkeeper in the IT industry, Aki was inspired to transition to hospitality after an epiphany while dining out at a restaurant, which has since then led her to open her own establishment. Aki was in part drawn to sommellerie due to the openness of the industry, with many Master Sommeliers and members of the Japan Sommelier Association showing her tremendous support and mentorship during her studies and career progression. Alas, she finds that this openness is largely at odds with the culture of Japan, where often times a closed, sexist attitude is still prevalent. Aki hopes that, through her example as a professional sommelier and business owner, she may be able to inspire other Japanese women to strive for success, even in the face of the obstacles before them.