Hisako Arato is a 92nd Generation student at Tōtsuki Culinary Institute, serving as secretary to Erina Nakiri, the 10th seat of the Elite Ten Council and later the academy's director. Born into the Arato family, known for their expertise in Chinese medicine (Zhōng Yī), she received early training in medicinal cooking, specializing in health-enhancing dishes derived from herbal knowledge. This background shaped her culinary philosophy, viewing Erina as her "Emperor" deserving of nutritionally optimized cuisine. Her dedication to Erina began in childhood, leading her to enroll at Tōtsuki alongside Erina. She secured the secretary role by winning a middle school Shokugeki against rival Nao Sadatsuka, enforcing a 50-meter exclusion zone around Erina for Sadatsuka. Physically, Hisako has short pink hair, initially styled with bangs reaching her eyebrows, later parted to the left, and evolving into a slightly shorter bob by her second year. She stands 161 cm (5'3.4") tall, with measurements of bust 80 cm, waist 56 cm, and hip 79 cm. Her reddish-pink eyes complement her fair complexion. She typically wears Tōtsuki's standard uniforms outside class and a plain white chef's coat during cooking, occasionally using glasses for administrative tasks. Her personality centers on unwavering loyalty and formidable organizational efficiency as Erina's secretary, managing schedules and responsibilities. Initially, she exhibited pride and stubbornness, often belittling others—particularly Sōma Yukihira—in defense of Erina's status. This dynamic shifted significantly after her loss to Akira Hayama in the Autumn Election quarterfinals, triggering intense self-doubt about her worthiness as Erina's aide and friend. Following advice from Sōma during their Stagiaire week, she resolved to stand beside Erina as an equal rather than follow from behind, leading to increased openness and friendships with peers like Sōma. She also facilitated Erina's exposure to modern culture, such as shōjo manga. Key narrative involvement includes monitoring Sōma's activities early on, participating in the Training Camp where she completed all challenges including the overnight breakfast buffet, and competing in the 43rd Autumn Election's "Curry Dishes" preliminary round. Her character development centers on her evolving relationship with Erina, transitioning from subservience to mutual friendship. By the series' conclusion, she remains alongside Erina as director, actively seeking to reconcile Erina's family relationships, including inquiries about Erina's mother and half-brother Asahi Saiba. Her culinary style consistently integrates her Chinese medical heritage, using spice blends and powders to create functional dishes aligning with her goal of supporting others' well-being.