In 2016 he was awarded the industry’s most prestigious title Sake Samurai from Japan Sake & Shochu Makers Association. In February 2021, he was appointed as The Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador by Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. And in 2023, he was awarded Foreign Minister’s Commendation by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Toshio is also a Board Director of Society of Wine Educators, and a member of Circle of Wine Writers and International Drinks Specialists.