Tokyo created history. In the latest Global Power City Index (GPCI-2025) from the Institute for Urban Strategies of the Mori Memorial Foundation, the city claimed the No. 2 spot worldwide, surpassing New York. London still holds the crown, but the gap between the two has never narrowed. It marks a huge increase in Tokyo's global competitiveness and has attracted the attention of audiences everywhere.
The ranking focuses on a city's "magnetism" – its ability to attract people, businesses, and capital. It covers 48 major cities and evaluates them in six areas: economy, research and development, cultural exchange, liveability, accessibility, and environment. Tokyo scored impressively in several categories, moving higher than ever before.
One standout area was culture and exchange. Tokyo's tourism scene is attracting millions of people, with nightlife, projection mapping shows, anime, kabuki, i and sumo.
Liveliness also played a big role. The city is known for its safety, low crime and terrorism risks, high rates of return of lost items, clean streets, and endless dining and shopping options.
On the environmental front, Tokyo businesses are pushing for a green transition (GX) with advanced technology. With its status as a major financial center and a growing startup scene, Tokyo's economic potential looks stronger than ever.
Top 10 cities in GPCI-2025 (with 2024 rank in brackets):
1. London (1)2. Tokyo (3)3. New York (2)4. Paris (4)5. Singapore (5)6. Seoul (6)7. Amsterdam (7)8. Shanghai (11)9. Dubai (8)10. Berlin (9)
Tokyo ranked No. 3 for nine consecutive years from 2016 to 2024. This success is seen as evidence of the city's growing appeal. Among subcategories, Tokyo retained its No. 3 spot in finance and debuted at No. 9 in the new startup category.
Governor Yuriko Koike highlighted Tokyo's unique blend of tradition and modern flair, from Edo-era culture to cutting-edge attractions. Sushi, global cuisine, projection mapping at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, ukiyo-e, kabu, ki, and sumo-inspired anime all showcase the city's diverse charms.
He cited Tokyo's safe streets, clean environment, GX technology, strong financial mark,ets and startup clusters as new growth drivers. Faced with the challenges of climate change, Tokyo aims to strengthen resilience and create a city where people can achieve happiness and self-fulfillment.
Koike stressed the importance of carrying forward the spirit of Tokyo 2020, the World Athletics Champions ,hips and the Paralympics – events that showed the "unlimited potential of the people". He called for creativity and intelligence to take Tokyo even higher.
The Mori Memorial Foundation has published this ranking since 2to highlighthting urban policy challengessupportrting both government and private research. It is now considered one of the most reliable measures of global city competitiveness.
In the post-pandemic era, as digital transformation and sustainability goals are shaping the future, Tokyo's cultural soft power, vibrancy, and innovation ecosystem are earning global recognition. Looking ahead, the city plans to advance its Zero Emission Tokyo Strategy, boost the night-time economy, and support startups – all part of its drive to become the world's favorite city.
