Advisor,
Japan Association for National Colleges of Technology
Executive Committee Member,
Yamaguchi Chemical Engineering Forum
Technical Advisor,
Yamaguchi Prefectural Industrial Technology Center
Caring for Your Skin,
Caring for
The Idea That Inspired Our Initiative.
For centuries, bamboo— plants as tall as the sky can reach— are cherished in Japan as a symbol of good fortune.
Yet, in recent years, with rural depopulation increasing, bamboo groves have since expanded. If left neglected and unmanaged, they increase the risk of landslides, encroach on satoyama woodlands, and disrupt local ecosystems. Over time, these once cherished bamboos are now seen as problems—known as “bamboo pollution.” Instead of simply discarding bamboo for the sake of conservation, researchers looked for ways to use it effectively. They discovered that bamboo from Yamaguchi is especially rich in minerals, and thus began developing active mineral products with high moisturizing and antioxidant properties using these materials.
Caring for Your Skin,
The Idea That Inspired Our Initiative.
5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Bambina
Bamboo from Yamaguchi Prefecture
is Rich in Minerals
Safe & Reliable
Our safe and reliable plant-based active minerals are suitable for skin of all types and ages, helping restore skin to its natural balance.
A Plant-Derived Mineral Unlike Any Before
Most minerals are typically derived from ores. In contrast, our bamboo charcoal minerals are plant-derived, making them highly compatible with the human body, enhancing the skin’s natural functions.
Rich in Minerals
Bamboo from Yamaguchi is abundant in minerals that are known to be beneficial for the skin.
Balancing Sensitive Skin
For skin that's easily affected by seasonal changes and environmental factors. Our products help maintain stable, healthy skin—365 days a year.
Upcycled Bamboo
Transforming locally overgrown bamboo into skincare with purpose. Our circular solution protects beautiful rural landscapes for future generations. With each use—good for your skin, good for the environment.
Our Legacy
・2010
The Encounter with a Researcher
Our founder, Shoui Nagashige, met Professor Masayuki Fukagawa, Doctor of Engineering at Kyoto University and Honorary Professor at Ube National College of Technology. Through this encounter, and learned about the existence of minerals extracted from Yamaguchi Prefecture's Moso bamboo.
Initially, the plan was to commercialize a detergent utilizing the abundant potassium component found in bamboo charcoal minerals. However, when the representative tried using it as a bath additive, she noticed its beneficial effects on the skin.
She had an epiphany: “The greatness of these minerals can benefit women and people troubled by skin issues!” She strongly resonated with Professor Fukagawa's vision: to revitalize the region by creating a new industry using bamboo, which are often considered a nuisance, as a raw material.
・2013
The Struggle to Commercialize the Product
However, commercializing the cosmetic product took time. Therefore, we first began selling Super Minerals and Activated Water at Yamaguchi Ube Airport as mineral products extracted from Yamaguchi Prefecture's Moso bamboo. Initially, the products didn't sell particularly well, but once people tried them, they became repeat customers, and sales gradually increased.
Supermineral
Yamaguchi Ube Airport
Souvenir Shop
・2015
From Customer Requests to a Sense of Mission
We began receiving more and more heartfelt letters from customers, expressing their joy. Soon, people started asking us, “Please create cosmetics with these minerals.” These requests made us realize, more than ever, the true need for mineral-based cosmetics. Motivated by this mission, our researchers continued trial after trial, tirelessly working toward the goal of developing a cosmetic line.
・2019/11
Bambina is Born
With preparations for cosmetic product development complete, Mineralist Co., Ltd. was established.
We went on to receive the Excellence Award at a business plan competition organized within the prefecture, with the theme:
“From Bamboo Pollution to Regional Revitalization — A Beauty Revolution Made Possible by Yamaguchi’s Bamboo.”
・2020/5
Launch of Bambina Skincare
The brand’s journey started during COVID-19, with its first rollout through official website and mass retailers.
・2023
Started Offering Natural Skincare as Resort Hotel Amenities
We began providing our natural skincare line as amenities in resort hotels, delivering a pleasant care experience to travelers during their stay.
Launch of “Bambina Bamboo Charcoal Mineral Laundry Detergent”
Recognized as an eco-friendly product, it received high praise and was honored with the Omotenashi Selection Sustainable Award.
・2024
Launch of “Edible Bambina Aged Fermented Bamboo Nukadoko (Rice Bran)”
Recognized as a food that supports family health, it was certified by the Maternity Food Association.
・2025
Rebranded from Bambina to Bambina365
Starting with skincare, we expanded our lineup to include detergents and food products.
With the name Bambina365, we aim to be a brand that supports everyday life by delivering beauty and health through bamboo, 365 days a year.
With the name Bambina365, we aim to be a brand that supports everyday life by delivering beauty and health through bamboo, 365 days a year.
Proven Results and
Results after six months
— shared by our customer
R&D
Researcher
Professor Emeritus
Masayuki Fukagawa
Doctor of Engineering,
Professor Emeritus,
Positions:
Areas of Expertise:
Ph.D. in Engineering, Kyoto University
Chemical Engineering, Reaction Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering
Publications:
Chemical Engineering (Shinzansha Publishing),
Dictionary of Waste Management (Waste Management Research Foundation)
Research Achievements:
Science and Technology Agency (Feasibility Testing Division):
Selected for grants
Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT):
Multiple selections for Grants-in-Aid
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI):
Several selections for Regional Consortium projects
Industry–Academia Collaboration and Related Work:
Development of resource recovery technology for organic sludge such as activated sludge
Development of membrane separation technology
Development of production technology for deliquescence-resistant bittern
Development of recycling technology for paper tube waste
Development of resource recovery technology for organic waste
Development of bamboo charcoal-related products