Full Breakdown
Tokyo Climbs to Second Place in Global City Attractiveness Ranking
12/19/2025, 11:12:50 AM
Overview of the Global City Power Rankings
The Mori Memorial Foundation's Institute for Urban Strategies recently released its 2025 Global Power City Index, which evaluates the attractiveness of 48 major cities worldwide. This year, London retained its position at the top for the 14th consecutive year, despite a decline in its overall score. Tokyo has risen to second place for the first time, marking a significant improvement in its ranking.
Tokyo's Rise in Rankings
Tokyo's ascent to second place is attributed to a surge in tourism, largely influenced by the weak yen, which has made the city more appealing to international visitors. The Japanese capital excelled particularly in the livability category, where it ranked first, and improved its standing in cultural interaction, now in second place. However, Tokyo's economy category saw a decline, and it ranked 29th in wage levels.
Comparison with Other Major Cities
New York, which previously held second place, fell to third after experiencing the steepest decline in score among all cities. The city struggled particularly in the livability category and ranked last in price. Meanwhile, Osaka made a notable jump from 35th to 18th place, benefiting from the anticipated economic boost from the upcoming 2025 World Exposition. Fukuoka, another Japanese city, ranked 40th in the index.
Official Statements & Responses
The Mori Memorial Foundation's report highlighted Tokyo's strengths in livability and cultural interaction, emphasizing the city's diverse dining options and relatively low prices due to the weak yen. The report also noted that the increase in visitors has positively impacted Tokyo's overall attractiveness.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive rankings, some critics argue that Tokyo's economy remains a concern, particularly regarding wage levels, which could affect long-term sustainability in attracting talent and residents. The decline in the economy category raises questions about the city's ability to maintain its ranking amidst global competition.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the rankings indicate a clear rise for Tokyo and Osaka, there is a lack of detailed analysis on the specific factors contributing to New York's decline. Additionally, the report does not provide insights into the long-term implications of these rankings for urban policy and development in the evaluated cities.
Verbatim Quotes
“Tokyo improved its overall score despite falling in the economy category.” — Mori Memorial Foundation Report
“New York recorded "the steepest decline in score" of all cities, losing the second place it had held since 2012.” — Mori Memorial Foundation Report
“Osaka rose from 35th to 18th place thanks to the impact of Expo 2025 on tourism and gross domestic product.” — Mori Memorial Foundation Report
“The Japanese capital ranked first for livability and rose to second place for cultural interaction, boosted by the weak yen, which makes the country more attractive to tourists.” — Mori Memorial Foundation Report
This year's Global Power City Index reflects shifting dynamics in urban attractiveness, with Tokyo's rise signaling a potential shift in global city rankings influenced by economic and cultural factors.
