Akiko Ito was born in Prefecture Gifu (Japan) and from the age of three she received piano lessons (Yamaha Grade) and calligraphy lessons (Diploma).She attended the renowned Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music, where she completed her vocal studies with Prof. Kumiko Oshita, Prof. Claus Ocker and Toshiko Shimura and was awarded the Kuwabara Prize for her diploma. A scholarship brought her to Germany, where she continued her vocal studies at the Music College of Cologne (Department Aachen/Aix-la-Chapelle) with Susanne Klare. She received her Konzertexamen (Solo Podium Degree) with distinction in 2002.