He was at the top of the graduating class at the Japan Coast Guard Academy. Before he took up researching in 2008, he served on the Patrol Vessel KUZURYU as the 2nd Officer On Deck. This experience forms the basis for his research interests and activities. He received his MPA from the Kyoto University School of Government in 2008 and a Ph.D. in Law from Kyoto University in 2011.