Akemi Yokoyama is a highly respected Japanese food specialist, chef, presenter, writer, and educator based in London. Her deep knowledge of Japanese food provenance stems from her father’s influence, having grown up foraging and fishing across the island of Hokkaido during her childhood.

As Principal of Sozai Cooking School, she leads acclaimed Japanese cookery classes, earning praise from UK national media. Her expertise has also been featured on major TV and radio programs, including Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, CBBC’s Saturday Mash-Up, and BBC Radio 4’s Front Row. In addition to teaching, she is a sought-after private chef, known for creating authentic and refined Japanese dining experiences.

A passionate advocate for Japanese food culture, Akemi frequently collaborates with Japanese government-related organisations and projects to promote washoku and sake across the UK and Europe. Her culinary expertise extends to Japanese fermentation, crafting a variety of miso at home and exploring traditional preservation techniques.

With a unique ability to blend historical knowledge, technical skill, and engaging storytelling, Akemi is a dynamic force in the world of Japanese cuisine, ensuring its traditions continue to thrive on an international stage.

Sozai Cooking School - Principal

Gohan.London - Founder

Member of Japanese Culinary Academy, UK

Certified miso sommelier, Japan

Certified koji making instructor, The Koji Academy, Japan

International Wine Challenge Sake Judge 

ロンドンで和食文化を広める和食講師、シェフ、コンサルタント、プレゼンター。英国初の和食料理学校、ソザイで教えるクラスはタイムアウト、テレグラフなど英国メイディアで高い評価を得ており、テレビの人気料理番組チャンネル４の「サンデー・ブランチ」、BBCの子供向けチャンネルCBBCの「Saturday Mash-Up!」で司会者に寿司づくりを教えるなどして活躍。最近ではBBCラジオ４のFRONT ROWにも出演、日本食文化の熱心な伝道者として、日本政府関連の団体やプロジェクトと協力しながら、英国やヨーロッパ各地で「和食」と日本酒の魅力を広める活動を積極的に展開しています。

2018年にGohan.London設立。2018年と2019年には豪華客船クイーンエリザベス号に和食のゲストシェフとして乗船、日本に向かうインバウンド客に和食イベントを通じて料理を提供し食文化のセミナーや料理教室を行う。日本料理アカデミーUK会員。味噌ソムリエ、だしソムリエ一級、IWC日本酒部門審査員。麹の学校認定講師。