Noriko was born and grew up in Iwate, northern Japan, a place full of nature. Living in New Zealand as a high school exchange student was a life changing experience for her, which made her major in International Cultural Studies at Tsuda University in Tokyo.  Even after she began working and frequently going on domestic and overseas business trips as a marketing communicator for an American company, she was always fascinated by stories behind every place she visited.  About 20 years ago, she and her husband moved from Tokyo to the Izu Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark.  Now Noriko, as a certified guide, enjoys introducing Izu’s unique landscapes, time-honoured local practices and culture to international travellers.  Also, as a member of Slow Food Mt. Fuji, Noriko contributes to preserve local artisanal flavours and gastronomic traditions.