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Autumn Foliage Journey in Tohoku, Japan: Must-See Scenic Spots to Visit in October

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TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – As summer ends and autumn arrives, the mountains and valleys of Japan’s Tohoku region are transformed into vibrant landscapes of autumn foliage, resembling a breathtaking painting. With the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area) offered by JR East, you can enjoy Japan’s renowned autumn foliage spots at great value.

This time, we would like to introduce some of the best autumn foliage spots in Tohoku, Japan. As the upcoming holidays approach, why not take a trip to fully enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves?

Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots in Tohoku

Spot ①: Mt. Hakkoda (Aomori Prefecture)

A renowned autumn foliage destination representing Tohoku, Mt. Hakkoda is covered with vibrant beech and maple trees in shades of red and yellow. The view of the autumn leaves from the ropeway is especially spectacular. Visitors can also stroll through the marshlands near the summit or enjoy hiking while taking in the colorful scenery. The foliage changes its appearance depending on the angle of sunlight, making it a perfect spot for photography.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Late September to mid-October
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Shin-Aomori Station: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • Aomori Station: Approx. 5 minutes by JR Ōu Main Line
  • Mt. Hakkoda: Approx. 1 hour by JR Bus, get off at Hakkoda Ropeway Station

Spot ②: Mt. Kurikoma (Iwate, Miyagi, and Akita Prefectures)

Mt. Kurikoma (Iwate, Miyagi, and Akita Prefectures)

Famous for its breathtaking autumn colors, Mt. Kurikoma is often called the “Carpet of the Gods.” From the summit, you can look down on a stunning gradation of foliage that can only be seen here. It is also highly recommended for hiking enthusiasts.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Late September to mid-October
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Kurikoma-Kōgen Station: Approx. 2 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • From Kurikoma-Kōgen Station, take the Kurikoma Autumn Foliage Shuttle Bus (※)
  • Mt. Kurikoma: Get off at Iwakagami-daira

※ The Kurikoma Autumn Foliage Shuttle Bus operates only for a limited period and requires advance reservation.
For details, please check the reservation website below:
https://japanbusonline.com/zh-tw/CourseDetail/index/10401010201

Spot ③: Sukayu Onsen – Jigokunuma (Aomori Prefecture)

Sukayu Onsen – Jigokunuma (Aomori Prefecture)

At the foot of Mt. Hakkoda lies Sukayu Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot springs. In October, the surrounding mountains are painted in brilliant reds and yellows, enveloping the entire hot spring town in a magical autumn atmosphere.

One of the highlights is Jigokunuma (Hell Pond), a popular spot where the vivid crimson and golden autumn leaves are beautifully reflected on the unique emerald-green surface of the pond, enriched with hot spring minerals. Here, visitors can indulge in the luxury of experiencing both hot springs and autumn foliage at the same time.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Early to mid-October
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Shin-Aomori Station: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • Sukayu Onsen: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by JR Bus, get off at Sukayu Onsen-mae

Spot ④: Oirase Gorge (Aomori Prefecture)

Oirase Gorge (Aomori Prefecture)

Stretching for 14 kilometers, the autumn foliage along Oirase Gorge is a must-see. Walking amidst brilliant red and yellow leaves while listening to the sound of the clear stream and waterfalls is a truly special experience. The combination of waterfalls, rocks, moss, splashing water, and autumn leaves creates breathtaking scenery perfect for photography.At the source of the gorge, Lake Towada, you can enjoy a magical view of the autumn colors surrounding the lakeshore, reflected beautifully on the water’s surface. In particular, the reflection of the foliage on the lake at sunset is sure to become one of the highlights of your trip.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to late November
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Hachinohe Station: Approx. 3 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • From Hachinohe Station West Exit, take the JR Bus Oirase-go (※)
  • Oirase Gorge: Get off at Kumoi-no-Nagare bus stop, approx. 15 minutes on foot

※ The JR Bus Oirase-go requires advance reservation. For details, please check the website below:
https://www.jrbustohoku.co.jp/towadako-oirase/ct/

Spot ⑤: Naruko Gorge (Miyagi Prefecture)

Naruko Gorge (Miyagi Prefecture)

The autumn foliage decorating the cliffs and gorge is a highlight of Naruko Gorge, with the view from Ōfukazawa Bridge considered one of the most iconic autumn landscapes in Tohoku. Hot spring resorts are also located nearby, allowing visitors to enjoy both autumn leaves and hot springs in one trip.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to early November
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Furukawa Station: Approx. 2 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • Naruko Gorge: Approx. 40 minutes by JR Rikuu East Line to Naruko Onsen Station

Spot ⑥: Chūson-ji Temple (Iwate Prefecture)

Chūson-ji Temple (Iwate Prefecture)

At the heart of Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands Chūson-ji Temple. While it is most famous for the glittering Konjikidō (Golden Hall), the autumn foliage that colors the temple grounds in October is equally unmissable.

The approach to the temple is lined with vividly colored maple and Japanese maple trees, which, combined with the historic temple architecture, create a solemn and majestic atmosphere. In particular, the autumn foliage surrounding the Konjikidō offers both grandeur and elegance, captivating all who visit.

  • Best Time to See Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to mid-November
  • Access (from Tokyo Station):
  • Ichinoseki Station: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by Tohoku Shinkansen
  • Chūson-ji Temple: Approx. 10 minutes by JR Tohoku Main Line to Hiraizumi Station, then about 20 minutes on foot

Enjoy Tohoku’s Autumn Foliage and Local Cuisine
After exploring the autumn leaves, savoring the local delicacies of each region is another highlight of the journey. From Sendai’s famous gyūtan (grilled beef tongue) in Miyagi Prefecture, to Morioka reimen (cold noodles) in Iwate Prefecture, and kiritanpo (grilled rice skewers) in Akita, Tohoku is full of seasonal flavors to enjoy in autumn.

Travel Smart with the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area)
The JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area) is a rail pass designed for international travelers, perfect for touring and staying longer in the Tohoku region of Japan. You can choose either a 5-day or 10-day option depending on the length of your trip, and during the validity period, you can enjoy unlimited travel on reserved seats of Shinkansen and limited express trains throughout eastern Japan, including Tohoku. With its great value, it is the ideal way to explore Tohoku’s autumn foliage spots.

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

Hashtag: #Tohoku #JREast

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Asian Smart Medical Online Exhibition 2026: Connecting Smart Medical Suppliers with Global Buyers

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TAIPEI, TAIWAN –

Organized by AsianNet and TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com), Medical Asia has been successfully facilitating international medical trade since its launch in 2024 , earning a strong reputation for high-quality participation and tangible business outcomes. In 2026, Medical Asia extends its exhibition period to strategically align with major global healthcare and medical industry events, including Medical Design & Manufacturing West, Arab Health, HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition, MEDICAL JAPAN [Osaka], and Hospitalar Sao Paulo. This extended timeline enables international buyers to engage with multiple key events simultaneously, creating a more efficient and streamlined sourcing experience.

By participating in Medical Asia 2026, exhibitors can expect enhanced global exposure, broader networking opportunities, and increased potential for sustainable business growth, all while reaching a larger and more diverse international buyer base through a flexible and cost-effective hybrid exhibition model.

Medical Asia 2026 features a robust lineup of respected Taiwanese manufacturers, including industry leaders such as Perfect Medical and many more. These companies will present thousands of the latest smart medical industry products and technologies, covering a wide array of sectors crucial to modern manufacturing and production.

The event will feature an extensive selection from top manufacturers, covering categories such as Medical Devices & Clinical Equipment, Medical Supplies & Nursing Consumables, Healthcare Facility Furniture & Logistics Equipment, Emergency & Clinical Patient Monitoring Equipment, Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy Equipment / Consumables, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Packaging & Inspection Machinery, Medical-grade Wearables & Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Devices, Clinical Laboratory & IVD Analyzers, Medical-grade Materials & Components (Plastics / Rubber / Silicone, etc.), and Home Health Care Products. With thousands of the latest products, accessories, and equipment on display, the exhibition promises to be both comprehensive and highly professional. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest innovations and developments across the smart medical industry.

Visit the Online Exhibition:
https://www.etradeasia.com/online-show/42/Asian-Smart-Medical-Online-Exhibition-2026.html

In today’s rapidly evolving global environment, online platforms play a crucial role in breaking geographical barriers and extending marketing reach. In response to this growing demand, Medical Asia 2026 offers a comprehensive suite of innovative digital exhibition solutions, including dedicated exhibitor pages, electronic catalogs, and virtual exhibition halls. These digital tools are seamlessly integrated with TradeAsia, enabling international buyers worldwide to effortlessly discover exhibitors and explore products in depth. Through the platform, buyers can visit individual manufacturer pages, review detailed product information, submit inquiries, and communicate with exhibitors via real-time messaging. This highly interactive and user-friendly experience facilitates smooth communication, enhances buyer engagement, and fosters meaningful business connections between exhibitors and global buyers, ultimately creating valuable commercial opportunities.

TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com) has been providing comprehensive B2B international trade services for buyers and sellers worldwide since 1997. With nearly three decades of industry experience, TradeAsia is recognized as one of the most established and professional global trade platforms. Today, the platform serves millions of members worldwide, featuring more than 600,000 verified suppliers and millions of up-to-date product listings across diverse industries. Every day, thousands of professional buyers from around the world use TradeAsia to source products, connect with suppliers, and explore new business opportunities. As a leading trade promotion channel in Asia, TradeAsia continues to facilitate efficient cross border trade and foster long term partnerships between global buyers and suppliers.

TradeAsia also collaborates with hundreds of trading organizations around the world to exchange marketing and promotional opportunities. As a result, suppliers who showcase their products on TradeAsia gain the chance to be featured across the publicity channels of multiple trade platforms and exhibition organizers worldwide, greatly enhancing their international visibility and marketing reach. In addition, during the period of Medical Asia 2026, promotional messages will be broadcast globally, further amplifying exposure for participating suppliers and connecting them with a wider international audience.

Hashtag: #TradeAsia

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Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore Publish Study Revealing the Gender Gap Between Personal Training and Home Gyms

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 — A new joint study by Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore has revealed a striking and persistent gender divide in Singapore’s fitness habits: while 80% of home gym users are male, over 60% of individuals actively seeking personal trainers are female.

The findings, based on Carbyne Fitness’ customer data and an online database of personal training enquiries compiled by IFPA Singapore’s personal trainers, point to two fundamentally different approaches to exercise motivation and engagement between men and women.

A Tale of Two Fitness Journeys
The data suggests that men overwhelmingly prefer self-directed fitness, buying equipment such as adjustable dumbbells, benches, and racks for home use. Women, on the other hand, are more inclined toward guided training experiences led by certified professionals.

According to Brian Chang, founder of Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore, this split reveals not just gender preferences, but deeper social and psychological factors shaping how Singaporeans exercise.

“Men often see fitness as something they should be able to handle on their own, like asking for help somehow means they’re not strong enough,” said Chang. “That’s why many men would rather train themselves than work with a coach. Ladies, on the other hand, are usually more open to learning and getting guidance. They see working with a coach not as weakness, but as a smart way to improve safely and effectively.”

The Male Home Gym Boom
The pandemic sparked a surge in home gym investments, and Carbyne Fitness has been at the forefront of this trend. Its adjustable dumbbells and adjustable kettlebells have become popular among working professionals looking to save time and train efficiently at home.

Carbyne Fitness’ customer data revealed that four in five customers are male. “The home gym trend among men is here to stay,” Chang explained. “They appreciate the convenience, privacy, and long-term savings. For many, it’s not just fitness equipment, it’s a personal investment in staying strong and independent as they age.”

However, with about 58% of Carbyne Fitness customers living in HDB flats, 26% in condominiums, and 16% in landed properties, many still hold the misconception that home workouts, especially in smaller HDB or condo spaces, aren’t practical or effective. Landed property owners make up less than 5% of Singapore’s dwellings, yet account for 16% of Carbyne Fitness’ customers.

Dwelling Type National Share (SingStat) Carbyne Customer Share Index (Representation)
HDB (Public Housing) 72.0% 58.5% 0.81 (Under-indexed)
Condominiums 23.3% 25.6% 1.10 (Over-indexed)
Landed Properties 4.7% 15.9% 3.38 (Heavily Over-indexed)

“One of the most common reasons people give for not buying home gym equipment is that they ‘don’t have the space,'” said Chang. “But in reality, a proper home setup doesn’t need much room; a good pair of adjustable dumbbells and a bench can fit comfortably within just one square meter if you choose the right equipment.”

Why Women Seek Trainers
In contrast, IFPA Singapore’s training enquiries show that a majority of personal training clients are female. Of the 392 Singapore-based individuals who sought personal training, 63% were women, even though men still represent the majority of gym members nationwide.

Category Male % Female % Dominant Characteristic
Home Gym Buyers (Carbyne) 80% 20% High Autonomy
PT Seekers (IFPA) 37% 63% Guidance Seeking
Population (DOS 2025) 49.3% 50.7% Balanced

“This reflects a growing confidence among women to take charge of their fitness journey,” said Chang. “But it also shows that women tend to prioritize safety and proper form. They are more willing to invest in expert guidance rather than risk injury from unguided workouts.”

Many female clients, Chang adds, have goals that extend beyond appearance: postnatal recovery, strength for caregiving, or functional fitness for daily life.

“It’s not just about aesthetics anymore,” he said. “Women are recognizing that strength training builds long-term resilience, both physically and mentally.”

Implications for Singapore’s Fitness Industry
The gender divide uncovered by Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore also points to structural gaps in how Singapore’s fitness ecosystem is organized, particularly the limited avenues for personal trainers to operate independently.

Most commercial gyms and public facilities, including ActiveSG gyms, do not permit outside personal trainers to conduct sessions within their premises. Trainers who are not employed directly by these gyms are often barred from coaching clients on-site, regardless of their certification or insurance coverage.

This restriction limits both consumer choice and career opportunities within the industry. For clients, especially women who prefer guided training but may not want to commit to an expensive gym membership, the policy creates a barrier to accessing affordable, flexible coaching. For freelance trainers, it restricts their ability to build a sustainable practice or serve niche communities such as seniors, postnatal women, or first-time exercisers.

“Many independent trainers tell us their biggest challenge isn’t finding clients; it’s finding space,” said Chang. “There’s a clear demand for affordable, accessible training environments, but the system hasn’t caught up yet.”

As a result, more trainers have turned to parks, void decks, or private studios, and a growing number of clients are exploring home-based personal training, sometimes with only a pair of resistance bands. This shift reflects broader lifestyle preferences: Singaporeans want convenience, privacy, and trust, not just a gym membership.

The study suggests that expanding access to personal training across shared and public fitness spaces could help Singapore move toward a more inclusive, community-driven fitness culture, one that empowers both male and female participants to train safely, confidently, and sustainably at every stage of life.

Volunteering for the Silver Generation
Both Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore are working to build a more inclusive fitness culture through the Silver Strength volunteer program, which runs weekly strength sessions for seniors using resistance bands, adjustable dumbbells, and other small equipment at Active Ageing Centers across Singapore.

The initiative, funded by the National Youth Council, empowers older adults to stay strong, mobile, and independent, while giving volunteers the chance to make a direct impact in their communities.

“Silver Strength is more than fitness. It is about bridging intergenerational gaps and helping seniors live confidently and age with strength,” said Chang.

To sign up as a volunteer, visit getcertifiedpt.com/silver-strength.

About the Study
The gender distribution insights were derived from:

  • Carbyne Fitness customer data, representing over 1,000 unique customer interactions across Singapore between January 2024 and September 2025.
  • IFPA Singapore’s independent observation of 392 prospective client profiles compiled between October 2025 and December 2025.

While the sample sizes differ, both data sets converge on a clear narrative: Singapore’s home gym market is predominantly male, while personal training demand is female-driven.

The full research can be accessed on https://carbyne.sg/blogs/articles/revealing-the-gender-gap-between-personal-training-and-home-gyms.
Hashtag: #CarbyneFitness

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

About Carbyne Fitness

Carbyne Fitness is a Singapore-based fitness equipment company focused on delivering space-efficient, performance-driven home gym solutions for modern lifestyles. Best known for its space-saving gym equipment such as adjustable dumbbells and foldable treadmills, Carbyne helps professionals, families, and seniors train effectively at home without compromising on quality or safety.

Learn more at:

About IFPA Singapore

IFPA Singapore, operated by Get Certified PT, is the official Singapore operator of the International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA), delivering internationally accredited personal training education and professional development. IFPA Singapore focuses on producing industry-ready practitioners through competency-based, real-world training.

Learn more at:

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Luyuan Group Participates in Key Event Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of China–Thailand Diplomatic Relations, Promoting Youth Exchange

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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 – Since January 14, the two-week “Boundless Creativity, Youth Connection” China–Thailand Youth Cultural Exchange Series officially kicked off in Bangkok. Over 500 representatives from various sectors and university students in both countries gathered for this cross-border cultural engagement. Jointly organized by China’s Intercontinental communication center (CICC) and Chulalongkorn University, and supported by Thailand’s Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Prime Minister, the event serves as a robust platform for deepening youth exchange between the two nations. Luyuan Group, together with its global brand LYVA, was invited to participate, showcasing innovative products to foster cross-cultural youth engagement.

As part of the program, Luyuan Group co-launched the “Ride with Panda, Toward the Future Together” China–Thailand Youth Friendship Ride. Young participants from both countries rode Luyuan motorbike featuring the panda mascot “A Pu” through iconic Bangkok landmarks, symbolizing the vitality and enduring friendship between China and Thailand.

As an invited corporate representative, Luyuan Group donated a panda-themed motorbike to Dhurakij Pundit University, encouraging youth to document cultural and exchange stories through action. This appearance highlighted Luyuan’s commitment to social responsibility and cultural influence, while also showcasing the Group’s progress in accelerating global expansion through its brand LYVA. Currently, Luyuan’s business footprint spans over 80 countries and regions.

Looking ahead, Luyuan Group will continue to collaborate with global partners to explore new paths in green mobility and contribute to sustainable development worldwide.

In addition, the event also featured the “Gifts from China” exhibition, themed around the 50th anniversary of China–Thailand friendship. Organized with the support of the China National Arts and Crafts Society’s Pattern R&D Center, the Pattern Museum, and Qilin Co-creation, the exhibition brought together numerous Chinese heritage brands, attracting significant interest from young attendees from both countries.

Among the highlights was the debut of the “The Eight Horses of Contemporary Prosperitye” — a horse-themed pattern co-created by the Pattern Museum and artist ZHENG CHONG in celebration of the Year of the Horse — adding rich cultural depth to the event. Contemporary artworks by Xu Shanxun from Mogu Gallery, along with leading Chinese brands such as GELASIGE, Beyond Home Textiles, and Youji Jewelry, further embodied the vibrant reach of Chinese culture abroad.
Hashtag: #LuyuanGroup

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