TOKYO: Tokyo has been named the “Best Big City in the World” in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024. The poll got responses from 575,048 people.
Tokyo returned to the top spot in the US edition of the magazine after a two-year gap. It has now been voted as the top city six times.
Tokyo Governor KOIKE Yuriko commented: “I would like to express my appreciation to all the readers who voted. Tokyo is a city where visitors can experience a distinctive culture, with traditional shrines and temples coexisting alongside innovative anime and the latest pop culture in a rare charm that entices the world.”
“We will continue to further refine the charm of Tokyo so that we can welcome many people from Japan and abroad in their quest to create many wonderful memories. This result reaffirms for me how the appeal of Tokyo is well recognized by people around the world.”
The Condé Nast editors also highlighted Tokyo’s attractions: “Tokyo continues to thrill with its contradictions: ultra-modern, neon skyscrapers and tranquil temples, unmatchable street style, and centuries-old etiquette. Like a fever dream you don’t want to wake up from, this Japanese capital also has more Michelin stars than any other place on Earth and is—no surprise—one of the world’s best food destinations.”
Last year’s winner, Singapore, was the runner-up in the poll, followed by Sydney, Cape Town, and Vienna. The top 10 was rounded out with Vancouver, Madrid, Copenhagen, Montreal, and London.