Around 2 to 5 million years ago, the Mino region in Gifu Prefecture was at the bottom of a massive lake called Lake Tokai. Components of weathered granite and other minerals from the surrounding areas flowed into the lake, where they formed clay. Over a long period of time, these clay layers accumulated and matured at the lake's bottom. The diverse and fertile soil that emerged near the surface due to subsequent land uplift, combined with the rich natural environment of forests and water systems, provides the foundation for Mino craftsmanship.

MINO SOIL begins with clay sourced from quarries in the Mino region, which is known for its rich variety. Among the most representative types are Kibushi clay, Gairome clay, and Mogusa clay. Kibushi clay is a finely textured material with high plasticity, characterized by its grayish color and the presence of silicified wood (fossilized ancient trees). Gairome clay is a high-quality white clay, with slightly larger particles than Kibushi clay and containing quartz grains. Mogusa clay is a type of clay traditionally used in historic Mino ware, such as Shino ware, and has a distinctive, rustic character.

The expertise in precisely blending the components of these soils to create the ideal clay for each application has also been highly developed in this region. By unlocking the potential of raw materials through creativity and ingenuity, MINO SOIL preserves techniques that have been honed over 1,300 years to establish one of the world's most renowned ceramic cultures.