For over twenty years, Ako has been a veteran of Japanese film, television, and theatre, and has made the transition into American performing arts as well. She was recently seen in a co-starring role in Scott Hicks' Snow Falling on Cedars. She has done voice-overs for commercial clients such as AT&T, Coca-Cola, and Shiseido, and television work for As The World Turns and All My Children. Her extensive work in Japanese film, television, and theatre has given her many popular leading roles. Aside from acting, Ako is also a specialist in Kabuki and choreography for theatre.