I’m happy to share some good news from Japan. This competition took place before the incredibly tragic earthquake and tsunami last week, of course. Mr. Ueno from Japan emailed Richard from Espresso Supply these photos, and I’m happy to be able to share them here with our readers. Cheers to the baristas in the Japanese Latte Art Championship!
Ms. Naoko Osawa, 2011 Japan Latte Art Champion. On her right is Mr. Akihiro Okada, whose accomplishments include 3rd place in the World Latte Art Championship, 2009; and 10th place in the World Barista Championship, 2009.Front row, left to right: Mr. Shingo Nakamura, 5th place; Mr. Kenji Kushihama, 2nd; Ms. Naoko Osawa, Champion; Ms. Chika Yamakawa, 3rd place; Ms. Manami Fujino, 4th place. Back row, left to right: Ms. Ayumi Tachibana, 10th place; Mr. Korin Sato, 9th place; Ms. Mai Nagai, 8th place; Ms. Saori Murata, 7th place; Ms. Izumi Tachimori, 6th placeFrom left to right: Ms. Ayumi Tachibana, 10th place; Mr. Korin Sato, 9th place; Ms. Mai Nagai, 8th place; Mr. Ueno.From left to right: Mr. Kenji Kushiham, 2nd; Ms. Naoko Osawa, Champion; Ms. Chika Yamakawa, 3rd.Ms. Naoko Osawa is announced as the Champion, and greeted by Mr. Ueno.Ms. Naoko Osawa works for Ogawa Coffee Co. Ltd., in Kyoto. In 2010, she placed 4th in the Japan Barista Championship and 2nd in the Japan Latte Art Championship.
Sarah Allen (she/her) is co-founder and editor of Barista Magazine, the international trade magazine for coffee professionals. A passionate advocate for baristas, quality, and the coffee community, Sarah has traveled widely to research stories, interact with readers, and present on a variety of topics affecting specialty coffee. She also loves animals, swimming, ice cream, and living in Portland, Oregon.
Great post with positive news about a country that is suffering so much. Very nice photography. Thank you for sharing such a great story.