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APTO Releases Training Dataset to Enhance the Mathematical Reasoning Capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs)

TOKYO, Oct. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As generative AI use continues to increase, accuracy has become the most important metric and a key factor in decisions around adoption and utilization. APTO is committed to supporting companies and organizations through high-quality AI data.


In recent years, the performance of LLMs has improved dramatically. However, in mathematical tasks that require multi-step calculations or strict answer formats, errors and formatting issues are still frequently observed. To address these challenges, we have developed and released a training dataset for LLMs designed to enhance reasoning and answer accuracy in mathematical problem-solving.

Background: Developing an LLM Dataset for Mathematical Reasoning

LLM developers and users have no doubt encountered the following challenges when dealing with mathematics:

  • The model does not output step-by-step calculations
  • It fails to follow the calculation process accurately and produces an incorrect answer
  • Responses not conforming to the required answer format, such as integers or fractions
  • Responses that do not show the problem-solving process (for example, omitting intermediate steps or outputting only the final answer)

In tackling complex mathematical problems, it is not uncommon to encounter outputs that disregard instructions or rules and fail to provide accurate answers.

We drew on our experience enhancing the reasoning abilities of LLMs to improve the accuracy of answers to mathematical problems. Based on this expertise, we developed a dataset of mathematical problems that includes complex reasoning processes.

About This Dataset

This dataset is mathematical reasoning data in JSON Lines format, created through a combination of machine generation and human review. It is designed for training PRMs (Process/Preference Reward Models) and includes not only the problem statement, correct answer, and generated responses, but also the reasoning process (Chain-of-Thought) and evaluation information for each step. This enables qualitative assessment of the reasoning process, rather than just a simple right-or-wrong judgment.

What Is Included in the Data Set?

  • problem (mathematical problems to be input)
  • expected_answer (used for automatic grading, evaluation, and format checking)
  • generated_answer (used for analyzing error patterns and extracting difficult cases)
  • answer_match (used for difficulty adjustment, stratified evaluation, and sampling control
  • step_evaluations: array; each element consists of {step_index, step_text, verdict} (using the text of each step and its correctness label to perform PRM/process supervision)
  • metadata.step_evaluation_category (eg: all_correct/partial_correct)

An Example of the Reasoning Process Breaking Down Midway

An example of the reasoning process breaking down midway.
An example of the reasoning process breaking down midway.

In this example, some of the geometric constraints are overlooked, and the range is limited only by the number-theoretic condition that “the area must be an integer.” As a result, configurations that should not be allowed are included, leading to the incorrect conclusion of a difference of 300. On the other hand, since the initial derivation is correct but the reasoning collapses at the end, this is categorized as partial_correct, a typical failure pattern.

(This is an example of an incorrect answer and constitutes only a part of the published dataset.)

We ensure quality by combining automated evaluation with human checks, covering both format compliance and the accuracy of final answers. The dataset we’re releasing includes 300 samples taken from the data used in training.

The Types of Questions

In order to prevent the reasoning process being skewed toward specific domains, we have divided the questions into the following categories:

  1. Calculus
  2. Algebra
  3. Geometry
  4. Probability, Statistics, and Discrete Mathematics

The Reasoning Process

‘Reasoning Process (Chain-of-Thought)’ refers to the step-by-step thinking involved in solving a mathematical problem.

The dataset structures this process into an appropriate sequence: reading the problem, carrying out calculations step by step, and arriving at the answer. Each problem includes at least two reasoning steps, with solution processes ranging from two to eight steps.

Data Performance Evaluation Results

A model trained on this dataset was evaluated for performance using the following AIME problem set as an external benchmark:

  • 2024 AIME (HuggingFaceH4/aime_2024) (*1)
  • 2025 AIME (math-ai/aime25) (*2)

The evaluation procedure is outlined below:

1. Fine-tuning using appropriate reasoning data for mathematical problem solving as training data.

This fine-tuning is a multitask approach that combines PRM (Process Reward Model) and CLM (Causal Language Modeling).

In the PRM task, we used step_evaluations.step_text from the dataset as input, and the verdict labels (“correct / incorrect / unclear”) as the training signal to classify whether each step was right or wrong. At the same time, we combined this with CLM (next-token prediction) to help the model maintain its ability to generate text. For training, we applied LoRA, which allowed us to fine-tune efficiently while keeping most of the base model frozen.

2. Evaluated answer accuracy on the AIME dataset before and after training. Since outputs can vary, each problem was answered four times, and the average score was compared.

To evaluate improvements in answer accuracy, we conducted evaluations on openai/gpt-oss-20b (*3), a model with strong mathematical performance.

When training was conducted on the above models, we observed an actual improvement of 10.0 points in answer performance.

Exam Year

No. of questions

Pre-Training Accuracy

Post-Training Accuracy

Margin of Improvement

2024

30

26.7 %

36.7 %

+10.0pt

2025

30

33.3 %

43.3 %

+10.0pt

Using data that includes complex calculation steps not only improved accuracy in mathematical reasoning tasks but also helped prevent breakdowns in step-by-step calculations.

This dataset is available on Hugging Face (see below)

https://huggingface.co/datasets/APTOinc/llm-math-reasoning-dataset 

For our existing clients, this will be delivered shortly via our email newsletter.

Future Dataset Development

In areas that require logical reasoning, it’s important not only to reach the right answer but also to clearly understand and reproduce the steps that lead there. As a result, approaches that emphasize the quality of the reasoning process itself are gaining attention. (*4)

Because LLM technology is advancing at a rapid pace, we believe it is necessary to develop datasets for other fields as well, datasets that enable models to accurately follow step-by-step processes, while keeping in mind constantly shifting needs and technical challenges.

We are developing new datasets in line with future technology trends and customer needs. We hope these will help accelerate your AI development and further improve accuracy.

Sources:

*1: https://huggingface.co/datasets/HuggingFaceH4/aime_2024 

*2: https://huggingface.co/datasets/math-ai/aime25 

*3: https://huggingface.co/openai/gpt-oss-20b 

*4: The Lessons of Developing Process Reward Models in Mathematical Reasoning (2025), https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.17621 

About APTO

We provide AI development support services that focus on data, the factor that has the greatest impact on accuracy in any AI development. Our offerings include:

  • harBest, a data collection and annotation platform that uses crowd workers;
  • harBest Dataset, which accelerates the preparation of data often considered a bottleneck in the early stages of development;
  • harBest Expert, which improves data accuracy by incorporating expert knowledge.

By supporting AI development that might be restricted due to data-related challenges, we have earned recognition from many enterprises both in Japan and abroad.

Deals Exceeding RMB 2 Billion Follow SANY’s Showcase of Integrated Green Solutions at Mining Indonesia 2025

BEIJING, Oct. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From September 17 to 20, 2025, SANY Group presented its latest large-scale mining equipment and advanced manufacturing technologies at Mining Indonesia 2025 in Jakarta. The exhibition highlighted SANY’s integrated portfolio of high-capacity and electric-powered solutions, highlighting the company’s commitment to operational reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability in mining operations.

 

SANY Showcases Integrated Green Solutions at Mining Indonesia 2025

Next-Generation Equipment Featuring Clean Energy Advancements

SANY introduced a new lineup of state-of-the-art mining machinery engineered to meet Indonesia’s diverse operating conditions and align with its decarbonization priorities. Designed to support the full mining cycle—from initial excavation through haulage and supporting infrastructure—the portfolio reflects SANY’s continued leadership in delivering dependable, high-performance equipment.

Key introductions for open-pit applications included the SY750 and SY1250H mining excavators, along with the SKT130S mining truck. These units combine high-output powertrains with designs focused on fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. SANY also unveiled a full suite of electric-powered models—including haul trucks, tractors, and loaders—providing zero-emission options to support the Indonesian mining sector’s efforts to modernize and decarbonize. Together, these offerings highlight SANY’s growing expertise in clean-energy mining solutions.

Expanding Local Partnerships to Support Long-Term Growth

During the event, SANY strengthened its market presence by finalizing agreements with leading Indonesian mining operators, representing more than RMB 2 billion in new business—the company’s strongest performance to date at this exhibition. Since entering the Indonesian market in 2008, SANY has delivered more than 43,000 machines, including 26,000 excavators currently in active service. This track record is supported by a workforce that is predominantly locally hired. SANY’s strategy for sustained growth includes local production and service capacity. Its Indonesian “Lighthouse Factory”—the first in the global construction and mining equipment industry to apply Chinese smart manufacturing standards abroad—has become a model for the application of digitalized and automated production systems worldwide. “SANY delivers the performance and service reliability our operations require, from equipment durability to responsive after-sales support,” said a procurement director from a major Indonesian mining company during the contract signing.

Looking ahead, SANY Group will continue to support Indonesia’s infrastructure and sustainable mining initiatives. By expanding its regional product portfolio and service network, the company aims to provide greater value and long-term reliability through its manufacturing and technology expertise.

 

WSPN and dtcpay to Launch WUSD Card, Expanding Digital Payment Accessibility

TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Worldwide Stablecoin Payment Network (WSPN), a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, and dtcpay, a regulated Major Payment Institution, are pleased to announce an upcoming collaboration to launch the first-of-its-kind WUSD Card to the market. This new payment solution will enable users to fund their cards with either WUSD stablecoins or USD, providing enhanced flexibility in digital payments.

WUSD Card
WUSD Card

This collaboration marks a major step in WSPN’s mission to make stablecoin technology part of everyday life. By launching as a Visa card, the WUSD Card will be accepted at millions of merchants worldwide, bringing stablecoins directly into real-world commerce.

The WUSD Card will offer flexibility for users, addressing the diverse needs of both crypto-native users and those transitioning from traditional financial systems. This dual-funding capability makes digital payments more inclusive and user-friendly, allowing customers to choose the funding method that best suits their preferences.

“The WUSD Card represents our commitment to driving the productization of stablecoins into real-world financial products,” said Raymond Yuan, Founder & CEO of WSPN. “As stablecoins transition from novel payment instruments to integrated financial solutions, we’re focused on standardizing these use cases for scalable, global impact. This card initiative with dtcpay exemplifies how we’re embedding stablecoin technology into practical, everyday products that enterprises and consumers can rely on.”

“With the WUSD Card, we’re proving that stablecoins are no longer just a concept — they are real, reliable, and ready for everyday use. Our partnership with WSPN sets a new standard for how digital and traditional finance come together, ” said Band Zhao, Group Chairman of dtcpay.

Detailed information about the WUSD Card features, availability, and launch timeline will be revealed in upcoming announcements. Stay tuned for more developments in this collaboration.

About WSPN

WSPN is a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, dedicated to building a more secure, efficient, and transparent global payment ecosystem. Our flagship stablecoin, WUSD, is fully backed and pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar, serving as the foundation for a suite of integrated financial solutions. These solutions support a range of financial applications from institutional treasury management to programmable payments and decentralized finance. With a strong focus on transparency, regulatory compliance, and user accessibility, WSPN bridges the gap between Web3 innovation and traditional financial systems, driving the global adoption of stablecoins at scale.

Learn more: www.wspn.ioX | LinkedIn

About dtcpay
dtcpay is a regulated Major Payment Institution (MPI) licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to conduct Digital Payment Token (DPT) services and other payment services under the Payment Services Act (PSA). As a leading provider of digital payment solutions, we pioneer the integration of stablecoin acceptance into traditional financial systems. With a vision to make global transactions seamless and sustainable, dtcpay empowers individuals and businesses to embrace the future of payments.

Learn more at dtcpay.com.

BRUNEI SUBSIDIARY OF GLOBAL ENERGY COMPANY, HIBISCUS PETROLEUM, EXPANDS GEP’S AI-DRIVEN PROCUREMENT SOFTWARE TO MANAGE SOURCE TO CONTRACT AND DRIVE NEW VALUE WORLDWIDE

  • The fast-growing oil & gas exploration and production company will leverage GEP’s platform digitize sourcing, supplier and contract management across its global energy operations.

CLARK, N.J., Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GEP®, a leading provider of procurement and supply chain strategy, software and managed services to Fortune 500 and Global 2000 enterprises worldwide, today announced Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V. (HEB), a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia-listed Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, has selected GEP SOFTWARE™ to digitize and unify its entire source-to-contract (S2C) process, encompassing sourcing, supplier management and contract management.

Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, operates across Southeast Asia, the UK and Australia, with a focus on monetizing producing oilfields and enhancing value from offshore assets. To streamline and automate its upstream procurement operations, HEB selected GEP SOFTWARE to establish a single, AI-powered platform for sourcing, supplier and contract management. Leveraging GEP’s prior experience with Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, which already uses GEP’s sourcing module, the Brunei operation will accelerate deployment and integration with its existing ERP environment. The new system is expected to go live by late September 2025.

GEP SOFTWARE, recently named a Leader in the 2025 Magic Quadrant for Source-to-Pay (S2P) Suites, encompasses GEP SMART, the world’s best procurement software, GEP NEXXE, the next-generation cloud-native supply chain unified platform, and GEP GREEN to measure and advance sustainability. GEP SOFTWARE is powered by GEP QUANTUM, the industry’s leading AI-first, low-code platform. It enables clients to drive optimum efficiency, agility, visibility and actionable intelligence into all procurement, purchasing and supply chain functions while eliminating burdensome infrastructure and support costs to achieve maximum ROI.

About GEP SOFTWARE
GEP SOFTWARE™ provides award-winning digital procurement and supply chain platforms that help global enterprises become more agile, resilient, competitive and profitable. With beautifully rendered interfaces and flexible workflows, GEP® provides users fresh, intuitive digital workspaces that yield extraordinary levels of user adoption and meaningful gains in team and personal productivity. GEP products capitalize on machine learning and cognitive computing, advanced data, semantic technologies, IoT, mobile and cloud technologies, and are designed to incorporate continual innovations in technology. GEP’s software integrates quickly and easily with third-party and legacy systems, such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft and all other major ERP and F&A software. And with superb support and service, GEP is an industry leader in customer satisfaction and loyalty. A leader in multiple Gartner Magic Quadrants, GEP’s cloud-native software and digital business platforms consistently win awards and recognition from industry analysts, research firms and media outlets, including Gartner, Forrester, IDC, Procurement Leaders and Spend Matters. GEP SOFTWARE is part of Clark, NJ-based GEP — the world’s leading provider of procurement and supply chain strategy, software and managed services. To learn more, visit www.gepsoftware.com.

Media Contact
Derek Creevey
Director, Public Relations
GEP
Phone: +1 732-382-6565
Email: derek.creevey@gep.com

 

Pixso 2.0 Unleashes AI-Powered UI/UX Design Revolution with Breakthrough Performance

HONG KONG, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pixso, the all-in-one collaborative UI/UX design platform, announced the official launch of Pixso 2.0, a major update that delivers significant improvements in performance, AI integration, collaboration, and cross-platform compatibility. The release reinforces Pixso’s mission to provide professional, efficient, and accessible digital product design tools for global teams.

Pixso 2.0 delivers breakthrough performance, AI-powered design tools, and smarter collaboration features.
Pixso 2.0 delivers breakthrough performance, AI-powered design tools, and smarter collaboration features.

Performance Rebuilt from the Ground Up

Pixso 2.0 introduces a fully rebuilt underlying architecture, resulting in measurable performance gains. Compared to version 1.0, file opening times have been reduced by 50%, while average memory usage has dropped by 40%. The update also brings faster instance linking, smoother canvas operations, such as zooming, panning, and rotating multiple layers—and optimized page-switching responsiveness, even for memory-heavy documents.

“We rewrote core parts of the rendering engine to support complex design scenarios,” said a Pixso Technical Lead. “Now, large files take up a lot less memory, and publishing large component libraries is way faster than it was before.

Pixso AI: Generate Designs from Simple Prompts

Transforming creativity with artificial intelligence, Pixso now enables users to generate complete, editable design drafts in seconds using simple text instructions. The “AI Generate Design” feature intelligently interprets prompts, such as “create a fintech dashboard”, producing high-fidelity mockups along with developer-ready front-end code, dramatically accelerating the initial design phase.

Seamless Design-to-Code Handoff

Pixso bridges the gap between design and development with one-click code generation for multiple frameworks, including ArkUI, HTML, and Flutter. Once the design draft is finalized, developers can switch to Dev View and click D2C to obtain a complete code package ready for production use. This component-structured code preserves layout relationships and styling, allowing developers to cut out manual translation and speed up development cycles.

Design Tokens Bring Systematic Consistency

New design tokens functionality allows teams to define and manage colors, text styles, numbers, and Boolean values as centralized variables. These tokens ensure visual consistency across projects, enable quick global updates, and enhance collaboration between design and engineering through standardized property definitions.

“Design tokens bring stronger standardization and more reliable code generation,” noted a Pixso Design Systems Lead. “Teams can iterate faster while keeping visual language consistent across projects.”

Full Sketch Compatibility Smoothes Transition

Pixso 2.0 ensures seamless migration for Sketch users with robust file compatibility. The update accurately renders blend modes, Boolean operations, background blur saturation, and bidirectional text, allowing designers to switch platforms without losing fidelity or reworking existing assets.

Advanced Text & Typography Capabilities

With support for variable fonts, path-based text layout, and bidirectional text for languages like Arabic and Hebrew, Pixso now offers one of the most sophisticated typography toolkits in collaborative design. Expanded language coverage includes Japanese, Korean, Urdu, Thai, and Tibetan.

Visual Comments Make Feedback Clear

Teams can now communicate with unmatched clarity using image-based comments. Users can drag, paste, or upload screenshots and graphics directly into comments in both Edit and Presentation modes, making precise, contextual feedback effortless.

Video & GIF Playback in Prototypes

Prototyping becomes more immersive with support for embedded video and GIF playback. Designers can now incorporate rich media into interactive prototypes, enabling more engaging presentations, clearer concept demonstrations, and more accurate user testing.

Upgraded Team Asset Library

The redesigned asset library accelerates component management and team collaboration. With faster publishing, improved search, and seamless synchronization, design systems remain consistent and accessible, streamlining workflows for cross-functional teams.

Custom Color Palettes Enhance Brand Management

Designers can now create, save, and share custom color palettes with advanced variable support. This makes it easier to maintain brand consistency, experiment with themes, and implement rebrands across entire projects with just a few clicks.

Accessible Plans for Every Team
Pixso continues to offer a robust Free plan that includes unlimited personal files, three team project pages, and 30 days of version history. The Pro plan unlocks advanced collaboration features and expanded storage. New subscribers also receive AI credits automatically for exploring AI design draft generation.

“Pixso 2.0 combines enterprise-grade performance with a gentle learning curve,” said Ethan, the CEO of Pixso. “With localized UI and a smooth migration path from Figma or Sketch, we’re empowering global teams to do their best work without barriers.”

About Pixso

Pixso is an all-in-one product design platform that brings together UI/UX design, whiteboard, prototyping, code generation, and developer handoff. Trusted by teams of all sizes, Pixso empowers creators to turn ideas into reality with powerful, intuitive tools built for modern collaboration.

About BOYUN

BOYUN is a technology company focused on core graphics rendering technologies and committed to pioneering high-performance rendering engines. Originally established in 2014 as Edrawsoft of Wondershare, the company spun off in 2021 to operate independently. Its product portfolio now includes the online collaborative design tool Pixso, the digital whiteboard platform Boardmix, and the AI-powered presentation platform Presenti AI.

Yuewen’s Integrated IP Strategy Powers Global Breakthrough of Lord of Mysteries

NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The first season of Lord of Mysteries, adapted from Yuewen’s celebrated intellectual property (IP) and streamed on Crunchyroll, recently concluded its global run, marking a new milestone for Chinese original content on the international stage. Blending Victorian-era aesthetics with steampunk elements and philosophical undertones, the story has captivated audiences around the world and established itself as one of the most successful Chinese animated series to date.

The official information of "Lord of Mysteries"
The official information of “Lord of Mysteries”

Adapted from a best-selling web novel initially released on Yuewen’s online literature platform Qidian, the story follows Zhou Mingrui, a young Chinese man who transmigrates into the body of Klein Moretti, a university graduate who has died under mysterious circumstances. In a world echoing late Victorian England and shaped by mystical powers, he seeks a way home. Reenacting the ritual that brought him there, he becomes a god-like figure, founds the Tarot Club, and pursues both truth and power as an emerging “Beyonder.”

Much of the story’s global appeal lies in the richness of its world-building. Lord of Mysteries presents a carefully layered universe that fuses character growth, supernatural intrigue, and socio-cultural detail with a distinctly Victorian and steampunk visual style. This blend, together with its philosophical reflections on power and identity, has created a compelling narrative fabric that resonates across cultures.

The animated series has achieved remarkable global success, setting multiple records with an IMDb score of 9.3—the highest ever for a Chinese animation overseas, while topping Crunchyroll’s summer chart and ranking among the top 100 titles on MyAnimeList. Released in seven languages across more than 190 countries and regions, it became the first Chinese animated series on an international platform to surpass 10,000 ratings. On Crunchyroll, it holds a near-perfect 4.9 out of 5, with viewers praising it as “a masterpiece from China, with every episode a top-tier animation,” and hailing its “unparalleled world-building and combat system” that makes “every episode an exceptional experience.” Meanwhile, online fan communities continue to amplify its cultural impact.

This mirrors the success of the original novel, the first on Qidian to surpass 300,000 average subscriptions—a milestone signaling both strong readership and commercial potential. With a global readership of more than 26 million core fans, the novel continues to dominate the popularity charts of WebNovel, Yuewen’s international online literature platform, consistently ranking first in votes, sales, and collections in 2025. Readers describe it as “over 1,400 chapters but absolutely worth reading, with the best world-building and combat system I’ve ever seen, and an incredible series of character journeys,” reflecting the depth and immersive appeal that sustain its momentum worldwide.

A Full-Chain Model with IP At the Core

The rise of Lord of Mysteries demonstrates Yuewen’s integrated strategy of “IP-driven development.” Rather than treating animation, publishing, and licensing as separate ventures, the company has designed a full-chain model that spans upstream content creation, midstream community building, and downstream commercial expansion. Authors contribute additional storylines and world-building materials, reinforcing the IP’s foundation. Animation and games extend its reach and foster user loyalty, while offline events, themed pop-ups, and cross-industry collaborations translate the IP into tangible cultural experiences. This “engine of mysticism,” as some observers have described it, allows the franchise to expand through prequels, spin-offs, and interactive storytelling, unlocking value across multiple layers: content, community, and commerce.

So far, Yuewen has rolled out the novel in 14 languages, launched card games and merchandise, and partnered with more than 40 brands for co-branded products. Offline fan events have further strengthened the bridge between digital communities and physical spaces. Looking ahead, the roadmap includes continued animation seasons, dedicated gaming projects, and expanded cross-cultural collaborations, ensuring that Lord of Mysteries remains a dynamic and evolving universe.

The global success of Lord of Mysteries signals the growing capacity of Chinese original content to shape international pop culture. As a Chinese IP that has achieved integrated development across novel, animation, merchandise, and fan communities worldwide, Lord of Mysteries demonstrates both cultural vitality and commercial strength. What began as a story of one character’s journey across worlds has grown into a shared cultural universe, connecting fans, brands, and markets on a global scale.

About Yuewen

Yuewen (China Literature Limited) is a culture and entertainment group focused on developing intellectual property (IP) derived from online literature. Yuewen has a diverse portfolio of well-known brands, such as QQ Reading, Qidian, New Classics Media, and Tencent Animation & Comics. It serves as a platform for tens of millions of creators with a rich reserve of literary works, audiobooks, animation, comics, films, drama series, games, and merchandise.

 

Wabunka: Private, One-Group-at-a-Time Cultural Experiences in Japan

— Designing New Journeys into the Heart of Japanese Culture —

TOKYO, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Wabunka, operated by J-CAT Inc., offers exclusive, one-group-only private experiences that bring international travelers closer to Japanese culture and regional traditions. Since its 2022 debut, the service has welcomed over 10,000 guests from 110 countries, facilitating once-in-a-lifetime journeys that offer an insider’s look at Japan beyond typical sightseeing.

Wabunka: Pull back the curtain on the real Japan with exclusive private tours, curated stays, and expert-led experiences.
Wabunka: Pull back the curtain on the real Japan with exclusive private tours, curated stays, and expert-led experiences.

As part of an expansion of its brand vision, Wabunka now positions itself not only as a provider of unique experiences but also as a designer of complete, high-quality cultural journeys. This is reflected in the revamp of its official website. New features include region-specific destination pages under “Featured Destinations,” and a documentary video series, “Masters of Japan,” which highlights the voices and craftsmanship of cultural custodians across the country.

Wabunka’s defining feature is its private, one-group-per-experience model, combined with an emphasis on thoughtfully curated, story-driven experiences rather than standard sightseeing. Guests are invited to engage with traditional artisans—including swordsmiths, geiko and maiko, and tea masters—in exclusive spaces rarely open to the public. These highly personal encounters offer a deeper, more intellectual and emotional understanding of Japan.

Each journey is designed by dedicated curators and supported by multilingual cultural guides, ensuring both ease of experience and genuine cultural connection. Wabunka’s private format allows for meaningful dialogue with cultural practitioners, creating singular experiences that go far beyond surface-level tourism.

As part of its new direction, Wabunka is rolling out the “Featured Destinations” initiative, offering curated travel itineraries that integrate accommodations, meals, transportation, and immersive experiences—all grounded in the distinctive heritage of each region.

Explore current destinations:

Wabunka has also launched a new video series, “Masters of Japan,” on its official YouTube channel. The first episode features Edo sashimono master Yutaka Mogami, offering an intimate look at his philosophy, skills, and legacy. Future videos will continue to spotlight the lives and voices of traditional craftspeople and cultural leaders across Japan.

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WabunkaJapan

Looking ahead, Wabunka will continue to expand its curated journeys by integrating cultural experiences with carefully selected accommodations, cuisine, and transportation—providing travelers with closer access to regional stories and ways of life. The platform now allows travelers to begin with a single cultural interest and naturally expand into a fully personalized journey through the region.

To support this, Wabunka is deepening its collaboration with cultural practitioners, regional stakeholders, and hospitality partners to develop destination-wide experiences that balance preservation with innovation. By embracing the concept of stewardship, Wabunka aims to contribute to sustainable tourism in Japan—offering high-value journeys that support local traditions and address societal challenges such as overtourism and population decline.

As a destination management company (DMC), Wabunka continues to evolve into a cultural gateway—connecting travelers with authentic experiences, vibrant communities, and the future of Japanese heritage.

For more information, please visit: https://wabunka-media.jp/en/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@WabunkaJapan
More Images are available at Images:https://m.wabunka-lux.jp/4pndPbQ

◾️About Wabunka

Wabunka:https://wabunka-lux.jp/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/wabunka.japan/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@WabunkaJapan
Images:https://m.wabunka-lux.jp/4pndPbQ

◾️About J-CAT, Inc.

J-CAT, Inc, designs and delivers exceptional travel experiences through Wabunka, which curates immersive cultural journeys for international visitors. With a portfolio of over 320 high-quality programs, Wabunka helps travelers engage deeply with Japan’s traditional culture, craftsmanship, and regional character.

It specializes in extraordinary travel by combining authentic cultural experiences, exclusive stays, and private access to hidden venues—all delivered in a one-group-at-a-time private format.

◾️Contact

General Inquiries:
https://wabunka-lux.jp/contact/

Media Contact:
pr-info@j-cat.co.jp (Public Relations)

Red Sea Global launches Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course

 A one-of-a-kind golf experience designed by Brian Curley to deliver a unique fusion of sustainable play and exclusive coastal luxury

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has officially opened Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, on Shura Island at The Red Sea.

 

Take a look at highlights from the inauguration for Shura Links attended by His Excellency Yasir Al Rumayyan, Governor of PIF and Chairman of Golf Saudi

Designed by renowned golf course architect Brian Curley and managed by Golf Saudi, the par-72, 7,400-yard course offers a distinct coastal links experience that celebrates the island’s natural topography. Eighteen holes wind through native mangroves and sweeping dunes before drifting along the Red Sea shoreline in typical links fashion. The course was designed for minimal environmental interference, reflecting RSG’s regenerative tourism values.

“The opening of Shura Links is a landmark achievement in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global leadership in sports and tourism. It reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and underscores PIF’s commitment to unlocking new sectors that diversify our economy and elevate quality of life. Situated at the heart of The Red Sea, Shura Links is more than a world-class golf course — it is a powerful realization of how this unique destination can be transformed into an engine for investment, luxury tourism, and sustainable opportunities for future generations,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Chairman of Golf Saudi.

A Social Hub Anchored by a Beachfront Clubhouse

A vibrant focal point for golfers and visitors alike, the beachfront clubhouse serves as the heart of social life at Shura Links. Inspired by native flora and fauna, the clubhouse offers panoramic views across the eighteenth green and features elevated dining, retail, and relaxation areas designed to enhance the visitor experience.

“Shura Links sets a new benchmark for the game of golf in the region. It’s more than just a course – it’s a place to connect, challenge yourself, and experience the full beauty of The Red Sea. This is another proud milestone in our mission to reshape global tourism through sustainability and design, and a significant step in building Red Sea Global’s diverse sports portfolio, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030’s goal of establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier global sporting destination,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

A Premium Golfing Experience

Highlights include:

  • Family-friendly adventure putting course, adjacent to the clubhouse and perfect for all ages and skill levels
  • Premium Callaway practice balls, used on professional tours
  • Curated golf retail boutique, offering leading brands, accessories and Shura Links merchandise
  • Elevated clubhouse experience, with exceptional dining indoors on the terrace, or by the pool
  • Expansive grass practice range and putting green, plus a fully grassed short game area
  • Tailored green fee options for 9 and 18-hole play
  • Professional golf coaching, including lessons for individuals, families, and groups, led by an on-site PGA-qualified professional

Brian Curley, Principal of Curley-Wagner Golf Design, said: “From the onset, Shura Links was designed to blend seamlessly with its natural, brilliant white, sand dunes surroundings, while delivering a one-of-a-kind golf experience. It’s a course built to challenge seasoned pros from the tournament tees, yet the ‘find your ball’ theme is also inviting for those trying golf for the first time. With Shura Links opening its doors, golfers from around the world can experience its unique character and world-class design.”

A Landmark Destination at The Red Sea

Shura Links is located on Shura Island, the heart of The Red Sea, which will begin to open to guests in the coming weeks. Phase one of the launch includes the debut of SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental hotels. It will eventually be home to 11 world-class resorts, all of which will open across the next few months. This includes: Faena; Fairmont; Four Seasons; Grand Hyatt; Jumeirah; Miraval; Raffles; and Rosewood.

As well as resorts, Shura Island is the setting for a collection of exclusive homes. The first properties available to buy on the island were announced earlier this year and will be ready for handover at the end of 2025. Residents will have access to all of the island’s entertainments, as well as its pristine beaches and azure waters, while also offering seamless access to the wider destination and iconic resorts.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which is situated within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours’ flying time for 85% of the world’s population, is the gateway to The Red Sea destination. It is already welcoming a regular schedule of domestic and international flights. Most recently it was announced that Qatar Airways will operate direct flights to RSI three times a week from next month, with further air lift expected to be announced soon.

When fully complete, the island will offer guests unparalleled access to pristine natural landscapes, luxurious amenities, high-end food and beverage and retail, signature experiences and cultural programming, making it the beating heart of this world-leading tourism destination.

Noah Alireza, Chief Executive Officer of Golf Saud, said: “Through our close partnership with Red Sea Global, we reaffirm our commitment to building an integrated investment environment that positions Saudi Arabia as a premier destination where natural beauty, innovation, and sustainability converge. Shura Links is not only a showcase of this vision, but also a foundational touchpoint in creating the Kingdom’s golf tourism trail — an entryway for international visitors to experience Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a world-class tourism hub. It stands as an inspiration to golf enthusiasts, investors, and decision-makers around the globe.”

About Red Sea Global

Red Sea Global (RSG – www.redseaglobal.com) is a vertically integrated real estate developer with a diverse portfolio across tourism, residential, experiences, infrastructure, transport, healthcare, and services. This includes the luxury regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea, which began welcoming guests in 2023, and AMAALA, which remains on track to welcome first guests in 2025.

A third destination, Thuwal Private Retreat opened in 2024. RSG has also been entrusted with refurbishment works at Al Wajh Airport, focused on upgrading the existing terminal and infrastructure, and building a new international terminal.

RSG is a PIF company and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s ambition to diversify its economy. Across its growing portfolio of destinations, subsidiaries, and businesses, RSG seeks to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment.

The 18th hole at the Shura Links golf course
The 18th hole at the Shura Links golf course

 

Overhead view of the clubhouse of Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course
Overhead view of the clubhouse of Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course

 

The glorious sunset over the 5th hole at Shura Links
The glorious sunset over the 5th hole at Shura Links

 

RSG Group CEO John Pagano (middle right) prepares to play a round at Shura Links
RSG Group CEO John Pagano (middle right) prepares to play a round at Shura Links