Aoki began figure skating at the age of five, inspired by Japanese skater Shizuka Arakawa’s Olympic victory at the 2006 Turin Games. At the NHK Trophy Grand Prix in 2024, she won the bronze medal, and she delivered a strong performance at the Japanese Championships later that year.

Afterwards, Aoki announced that she would likely end her skating career at just 22 years old. Throughout her career, she struggled with numerous injuries: persistent back issues and a foot fracture repeatedly set her back.

But she ultimately chose to continue – much to the delight of her large fanbase. Because worldwide, there are few skaters who glide across the ice with such emotion, elegance and effortless grace. A true artist – and therefore perfectly suited for Art on Ice.