Born in Tokyo, Japan, she made her acting debut in the late 1980s. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become a prominent figure in Japanese cinema and television. Known for her versatile roles, she gained acclaim in films such as "Departures" and "The Cat Returns." Aside from acting, she is also a voice actress and essayist. Her performances often capture a poignant depth, earning her a loyal following and several awards in the Japanese entertainment industry.