A Groundbreaking Collaboration: KINOLI® Meets Kinokoma Tango
On May 16, 2025, MYCL Japan Corporation is set to launch an innovative line of products made from KINOLI®, a 100% natural material derived from mushroom mycelium. This unique collaboration features the beloved VTuber Kinokoma Tango, who embodies a passion for mushrooms, aiming to promote the sustainable and eco-friendly potential of this exciting new material.
Background: The Need for Sustainable Materials
In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards sustainable materials, prompted by growing environmental concerns. Many consumers are seeking alternatives to animal-derived and petroleum-based products. However, most vegan leathers available today still contain a mix of plant-derived materials and synthetic resins, failing to fulfill the promise of being fully eco-friendly. Furthermore, there is a challenge in raising the awareness of new materials in a way that resonates with consumers and feels relatable.
Product Overview: What is KINOLI®?
The upcoming collaboration features an exclusive product line that incorporates KINOLI®, crafted entirely from mushroom mycelium and designed by Kinokoma Tango. Each product showcases unique patterns that occur naturally during the growth of the mycelium as well as a soft texture that offers an exceptional tactile experience not found in traditional leather.
Product Lineup includes:
- - Kinokoma Tango Design KINOLI® Business Card Holder - 30,000 JPY (including tax)
- - Kinokoma Tango Design KINOLI® Coaster - 5,000 JPY (including tax)
- - Kinokoma Tango Design KINOLI® Bookmark - 2,685 JPY (including tax)
- - Kinokoma Tango Design KINOLI® Keychain - 1,685 JPY (including tax)
Benefits of KINOLI®
1.
Environmentally Friendly Material
KINOLI® is made solely from mushroom mycelium, eliminating the need for synthetic petrochemical resins. Once the product's life cycle is complete, it can safely return to nature, aligning with SDGs and sustainable practices.
2.
One-of-a-Kind Texture
Each pattern produced by the mycelium’s growth is unique, offering a soft and smooth feel that is distinctly different from traditional or vegan leathers. Consumers will appreciate the texture that invites touch.
3.
Synergy with a Mushroom-loving VTuber
Partnering with Kinokoma Tango, a character endorsed by the Japan Mushroom Meister Association, helps to showcase the diverse possibilities mushrooms can bring to sustainability.
Key Information
- - Pre-order Start Date: May 16, 2025, at 12:00 PM
- - Sales Method: Limited to MYCL Japan’s official online store
- - URL: MYCL Japan Store
- - Shipping Expected Starting: Mid-August 2025
- - Bonus: Customers will receive a signed business card-like card as a special gift.
Comments from the Collaboration Partners
Kinokoma Tango (VTuber)
"Hello everyone! I am Kinokoma Tango, the mushroom person VTuber. I usually share mushroom-related content on platforms like YouTube. I feel a unique connection to KINOLI® as it’s made from mushroom mycelium that flows through my body! I hope this collaboration introduces everyone to the potential of mushrooms!"
Kaeta Inui (CEO of MYCL Japan)
"Our continuous pursuit of mushroom potential has led to a natural collaboration with Kinokoma Tango. We hope this project raises awareness of the value of mushrooms as sustainable materials among a broader audience."
Future Prospects
This collaboration with Kinokoma Tango is just the beginning, as MYCL Japan plans to explore the various possibilities of KINOLI®. Future collaborations with other creators and brands are also in the pipeline to stimulate innovative uses of sustainable materials.
Company Overview
- - Company Name: MYCL Japan Corporation
- - Address: 1-2-13 Honmachi, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
- - CEO: Kaeta Inui
- - Established: July 2022
- - Business Focus: Research, development, manufacture, and sales of new materials utilizing mushroom mycelium
- - URL: MYCL Japan