Born in Tokyo, she began her career as a model and quickly transitioned into acting during the late 1980s. She gained significant attention with her role in "Zutto Saki" and further solidified her status as a versatile actress with performances in films like "The Twilight Samurai" and "Pale Moon." Her talent has earned her numerous awards, including the Japan Academy Prize. Known for her depth and emotional range, she continues to be a respected figure in Japanese cinema.