In a delightful update shared on May 9, 2025, former Nippon Television announcer Rio Ozaki, 32, recounted a memorable trip to Miyazaki and Takachiho with her senior colleague Maami Mizuochi, 38. The Instagram post showcased their vibrant friendship, which has endured beyond their time as colleagues at NTV.
Ozaki's post elaborated on their adventure, describing it as a "1-night, 2-day trip" filled with laughter and culinary delights. She exclaimed, "The food we chose was all about meat, meat, and more meat! I was so happy to enjoy such delicious meat, especially in the breathtaking nature of Kyushu!" This enthusiasm for food was accompanied by photos of the two enjoying hearty meals, including a sumptuous meat bowl, which highlighted their shared love for culinary experiences.
Reflecting on the trip, Ozaki noted, "Takachiho is known as the 'Village of Mythology,' and we visited several power spots. I felt like being next to Miura was a power spot in itself, as we spent such grateful and joyful moments together. I would love to go back to Takachiho again!" Her heartfelt sentiments resonated with fans, who flooded the comments with admiration, calling them "cute" and likening their bond to that of sisters.
Notably, this trip comes after Ozaki's retirement from Nippon Television in June 2024, following her marriage to a university classmate in 2019 and the birth of their child. Despite stepping away from her role as a full-time announcer, Ozaki has remained connected to her former colleagues, particularly Mizuochi. During her maternity leave, she frequently shared moments spent with Mizuochi over lunch on Instagram, showcasing their enduring friendship.
In the days leading up to the trip, Ozaki had also uploaded a video on her YouTube channel, which she clarified was filmed during her time with Mizuochi. "Yes, the YouTube video I uploaded yesterday was actually a tour with Miura!" she explained, further emphasizing the fun they had together.
Fans showered Ozaki and Mizuochi with compliments, expressing joy at seeing them together again. Comments such as "You both look so cute and happy!" and "It’s wonderful to see you two together again!" reflected the public's affection for the duo.
Ozaki's Instagram post, filled with joy and nostalgia, serves as a reminder of the strong bonds formed during their time at NTV. As both announcers embark on new journeys in their careers, their friendship remains a cherished aspect of their lives.
As they continue to navigate their paths—Mizuochi as a prominent figure in television and Ozaki as a freelance announcer—their camaraderie shines through, inspiring fans and followers alike. The trip to Takachiho not only rekindled their friendship but also highlighted the importance of connection and shared experiences in both personal and professional realms.
In a world where the pace of life often overshadows personal relationships, Ozaki and Mizuochi’s story resonates with many, reminding everyone of the joy that comes from nurturing friendships, even amidst the demands of career changes and life transitions. Their journey together in Takachiho is not just a trip; it’s a celebration of their bond, a testament to the power of friendship, and a reminder that some connections can withstand the test of time.