Born and raised in Kyoto, Takemi had engaged in design-related work before opening her own kimono gallery, Isho Takemi, in 2003 in the center of Kyoto. Since then, she has produced kimono and obi of her own design, playing an active, collaborative role with such artisans as dyers, weavers and kimono tailors. Determined to revitalize Kyoto's kimono culture, Takemi educates the public about the critical situation facing the craft by speaking at symposiums and exhibitions.