Kristi Yamaguchi’s roots, like the medal she won at the 1992 Olympics, are made of gold. The U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame and World Figure Skating Hall of Fame member was born in Hayward—not far from the Golden Gate Bridge—and she grew up in nearby Fremont, an area that prospered in the 1800s after the Gold Rush. And in 2024 Yamaguchi earned the most Golden State honor of all: She became a Barbie doll, part of the toy brand’s “Inspiring Women” Collection.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Yamaguchi has made a huge impact with her philanthropic and literary efforts. In 1996, she founded Kristi Yamaguchi's Always Dream, which champions early literacy by fostering family engagement and building a love of reading. “I feel books unlock the imagination in children, and that’s where dreams are born,” she says. Yamaguchi is a New York Times bestselling author herself, having penned three children’s books, including Dream Big, Little Pig!
We asked Yamaguchi to share some of her California favorites and this is what she told us.
Where do you live? The San Francisco Bay Area.
Why there? I was born and raised here. I’ve lived all over the continent but I love all that the Bay Area has to offer: culture, diversity, innovation, proximity to the mountains and wine country, the ocean, climate. And most of my family is here.
Who or what is your greatest California love? The lifestyle. It’s creative and ahead of the curve, but chill.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we hang out at the beach a lot and are surfers. Here in the Bay Area, at least, it’s usually a special occasion. The beaches are cold up here.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? There’s lots of opportunity and innovation.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Disneyland!
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Since I’d be starting in the Bay Area, I’d head south on 101. Enjoy the beautiful drive along the coast and stop along some favorite spots. Clam chowder in Half Moon Bay, stop at the beach at Pajaro Dunes and picnic, enjoy the beach. Head into San Luis Obispo to shop, dine, and visit family. Then stop and visit Santa Barbara and end in L.A. with a visit with my two daughters who are going to school there.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? We have the best of all the different Asian cuisines—anything Pacific Rim.
What is your favorite way to play in California? I think of many outdoor activities like hiking, amusement parks, skiing/sledding, dining alfresco, and beach activities.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? I would have to say the Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto. It has all of the major department stores and boutiques you’ll ever need. All in a beautiful outdoor setting with restaurants as well. And free parking!
Best California song? “Lights” by Journey. I’m a Bay Area girl and when I was living on the road touring with Stars on Ice for 10-plus years, this song resonated.
How would your California dream day unfold? I’d wake up, eat breakfast at San Francisco’s Son & Garden, hike somewhere like Muir Woods or Lands End. Grab a snack at Matcha Café Maiko in Japantown (the Maiko special), get to a spa in Napa and have a deep-tissue massage and facial, steam, and jacuzzi. Enjoy dinner alfresco somewhere there. Perhaps RH or Bouchon in Yountville or Farmstead in St. Helena. End the day with cocktails fireside and live music.
