Media OutReach

Discover Nature and Culture in Japan’s Tohoku: Family-Friendly Highlights A Perfect 5-Day, 4-Night Journey for Families

Published

3 months ago

22/09/2025

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – The Tohoku region of Japan is a perfect destination for family trips. It is full of exciting experiences for children and activities that parents and kids can enjoy together. With the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area), you can travel conveniently and affordably on Shinkansen and limited express trains across Tohoku, making it easy to explore the region’s attractions efficiently. In this guide, we introduce recommended family-friendly spots along with a sample 5-day, 4-night travel itinerary ideal for a family vacation.

■ Family-Friendly Highlights

① Nebuta House Wa Rasse (Aomori Prefecture)

An interactive facility where visitors can experience the vibrant Nebuta Festival, which colors Aomori’s summer, all year round. Life-sized Nebuta floats are on permanent display, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festival’s atmosphere. You can also join a craft workshop to make your own miniature Nebuta, creating a memorable keepsake together with your children.

Opening Hours: 9:00–18:00 (September–April)

Access (from Tokyo Station):

Shin-Aomori Station: Approx. 3 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
Nebuta House Wa Rasse: 1 minute on foot from Aomori Station via the JR Ōu Main Line

②：Aquamarine Fukushima (Fukushima Prefecture)

An aquarium where visitors can experience the rich bounty of the Pacific Ocean. In the massive “Shiome Sea” tank, schools of Pacific saury and sardines swimming together create an overwhelming spectacle. At the 4,500 m² touch pool, one of the largest in the world, children can play barefoot in the water and interact with sea creatures such as starfish and sea cucumbers—sure to bring smiles and excitement to their faces.

Opening Hours: 9:00–17:30 (late March to late November)

Access (from Tokyo Station):

Izumi Station: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by JR Jōban Line Hitachi or Tokiwa Limited Express
From Izumi Station South Exit bus stop, take the Izumi–Onahama Line local bus
Aquamarine Fukushima: Get off at Aeon Mall Iwaki Onahama bus stop, then approx. 5 minutes on foot

⓷：Kosaka Railway Rail Park (Akita Prefecture)

An interactive theme park that repurposes a former railway line. Visitors can ride actual trains, enjoy sightseeing trolleys running on the old tracks, try rail bikes that you pedal yourself, and even experience a simulator that lets you feel like a real train driver. It’s the perfect spot for children who love trains.

Opening Hours: 9:00–17:00 (※)

Last entry: 16:30
Closed: Every Wednesday (if Wednesday is a national holiday, closed the following Thursday)
Rail bikes operate only on weekends and holidays
Sightseeing trolleys operate every day except Tuesdays

For details, please check the website below:
https://stayakita.com/th/things-to-do/things-to-do-460

Access (from Tokyo Station):

Morioka Station: Approx. 2 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
Towada-Minami Station: Approx. 2 hours by JR Hanawa Line
From Towada-Minami Station, take the Shuhoku Bus bound for Kosaka
Kosaka Railway Rail Park: Get off at Kosaka Elementary School bus stop, then approx. 2 minutes on foot

⓸：Iwate Safari Park (Iwate Prefecture)

A safari park where visitors can observe animals from around the world—such as lions, giraffes, and elephants—up close. Riding the safari bus to see these powerful animals creates an unforgettable experience for children.

Opening Hours: 9:30–17:00

Access (from Tokyo Station):

Ichinoseki Station: Approx. 2 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
Hanaizumi Station: Approx. 15 minutes by JR Tohoku Main Line
Iwate Safari Park: Approx. 20 minutes by taxi from Hanaizumi Station

⓹：Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium (Miyagi Prefecture)

An aquarium themed around the “connection between the sea and people, and between water and people.” The massive main tank that recreates the seas of Tohoku and the dolphin and sea lion performance show are absolute highlights. The facility is full of exhibits that parents and children can enjoy together.

Opening Hours: 9:00–17:30

Access (from Tokyo Station):

Sendai Station: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by Tohoku Shinkansen
Get off at Nakano-Sakae Station via JR Senseki Line
Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium: Approx. 15 minutes on foot from Nakano-Sakae Station

■ Recommended Rail Pass for Traveling Around Tohoku
With the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area), you can explore these tourist attractions freely and at great value. The JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) is a rail pass designed for international travelers, perfect for touring and extended stays in Japan’s Tohoku region. Depending on the length of your trip, you can choose between a 5-day or 10-day pass.

During the validity period, you can enjoy unlimited rides in reserved ordinary car seats on Shinkansen and limited express trains within the designated areas of eastern Japan, including Tohoku. This makes family trips—where travel can be a big challenge, much more comfortable and affordable, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

For more details, please visit the official JR East website:
https://www.jreast.co.jp/th/multi/pass/eastpass_t.html

■ Family Travel Model Itinerary with the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) (5 Days, 4 Nights)
The Tohoku region covers a vast area, but with the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area), you can ride reserved seats on Shinkansen and limited express trains as many times as you like, making it easy and worry-free to travel efficiently—even on a family trip.Here, we introduce a sample 5-day, 4-night itinerary using the 5-day JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area), designed to help families fully enjoy a grand tour of Tohoku.

Day 1: Tokyo → Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

Travel from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station in Miyagi via the Tohoku Shinkansen
Morning: Enjoy the dolphin show and giant tanks at Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium
Afternoon: Explore Sendai city—have a gyūtan (grilled beef tongue) lunch and tour the city on the Loople Sendai sightseeing bus
Overnight stay in Sendai

Day 2: Sendai, Miyagi → Iwate Prefecture

Travel from Sendai Station to Ichinoseki Station by Tohoku Shinkansen
Morning: From Ichinoseki, head to Iwate Safari Park to see lions, giraffes, and elephants up close, and experience the great outdoors as a family
Afternoon: Travel from Ichinoseki to Morioka Station. In the evening, enjoy local specialties such as Morioka Reimen (cold noodles)
Overnight stay in Morioka

Day 3: Morioka, Iwate → Aomori Prefecture

Travel from Morioka Station to Shin-Aomori Station by Tohoku Shinkansen
Morning: Visit Nebuta House Wa Rasse to experience the excitement of the Nebuta Festival and its massive floats
Afternoon: Explore Aomori city and indulge in apple-themed sweets and local delicacies
Overnight stay in Aomori

Day 4: Aomori Prefecture → Akita Prefecture

Travel from Aomori Station to Ōdate Station by JR Ōu Main Line
Continue from Ōdate Station to Towada-Minami Station via JR Hanawa Line
Morning: Enjoy hands-on railway experiences at the Kosaka Railway Rail Park
Afternoon: Travel to Akita city, go sightseeing, and savor kiritanpo (grilled rice skewers)
Overnight stay in Akita

Day 5: Akita Prefecture → Fukushima Prefecture → Tokyo

Travel from Akita Station to Sendai Station via the Akita Shinkansen
Transfer to the JR Jōban Line Hitachi or Tokiwa Limited Express and head to Izumi Station
Afternoon: Visit Aquamarine Fukushima, where children can explore the wonders of the ocean
Return from Izumi Station to Tokyo Station by Limited Express Hitachi

The Tohoku region of Japan is full of attractions that children will love, from animals and aquariums to hands-on cultural experiences. This year, make unforgettable memories by setting out on a family trip to Tohoku.

Hashtag: #Tohoku #JREast

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

5 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

https://www.paymentoptions.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/payment-options/
https://www.facebook.com/PaymentOptions.int/
https://www.instagram.com/payment.options/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

6 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

23 hours ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: