HIDENORI IZAKI
BARISTA CHAMPION OF JAPAN
@hcoespsp
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.
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.
