WBC Countdown: Barista Champion of Japan Hidenori Izaki

HIDENORI IZAKI
BARISTA CHAMPION OF JAPAN
@hcoespsp

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Barista Mag:  Before coffee, did you work in a different job or industry, or what did you study in school?

Hidenori:  No. I was working as a barista while studying Intercultural Communication at a university.

BMag:  How did you get started in coffee?

Hidenori:  My father who has been working in coffee industry recommended me.

BMag:  What was your first amazing experience with coffee?

Hidenori:  It was when I experienced “From Seed to Cup”.

BMag:  Who has been your greatest influence in coffee? Why?

Hidenori:  Kentaro Maruyama.  Because he’s the “coffee world” to me.

izaki

BMag:  What would you like to see change about the coffee industry/community?

Hidenori:  I don’t know how the coffee industry is going, but that’s why I feel excited. I hope I keep feeling exciting.

BMag:  Name a coffee luminary (famous person) you would like to meet, and why:

Hidenori:  Too many to name all of them!

BMag:  Name a barista you admire, and why:

Hidenori:  Again, too many to name all of them!

BMag:  Which coffee producing country you would like to visit, and why?

Hidenori:  Costa Rica. I just like it.

BMag:  What are your interests outside of coffee?

Hidenori:  Anything sweet!

BMag:  Is there anyone you would like to thank or who helped you prepare for the WBC?

Hidenori:  First of all, Kentaro Maruyama and my team members and all coffee lovers in Japan.  Also I thank my girlfriend who supports me, and my family.

About Sarah 929 Articles
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.