Tokyo Rises to Second Place in 2025 Global Power City Index, Overtaking New York

Tokyo has climbed to second place for the first time in the 2025 Global Power City Index (GPCI), surpassing New York, according to rankings released on January 17 by the Mori Memorial Foundation, a think tank affiliated with Mori Building Co.

The GPCI evaluates major global cities based on multiple factors, including economy, research and development, cultural interaction, livability, environment, and accessibility. Tokyo’s improved ranking reflects a strong overall performance, particularly in tourism and international appeal.

Tourism Drives Tokyo’s Rise

Tokyo’s advancement in the 2025 rankings was largely driven by a surge in inbound tourism, supported by the weaker yen. The favorable exchange rate has made Japan more attractive to overseas visitors, leading to higher spending and increased international activity in the city.

The recovery of global travel following the pandemic has also contributed to Tokyo’s stronger showing, reinforcing its position as a major global destination for both leisure and business travelers.

New York Falls After Long Hold on Second Place

New York, which had maintained the second position for 13 consecutive years, slipped in the rankings due in part to rising living costs. Higher expenses related to housing, transportation, and daily life negatively affected the city’s performance in livability-related metrics.

Despite the drop, New York remains one of the world’s most influential cities, continuing to rank highly in areas such as economic strength, innovation, and cultural influence.

Changes in the Top Rankings

The top-five rankings changed for the first time in nine years, signaling a notable shift among leading global cities. London retained its position at the top, continuing to score highly across multiple categories, including global accessibility and cultural interaction.

Tokyo’s move into second place highlights the city’s growing competitiveness on the global stage, particularly as international travel and economic activity continue to recover.

Outlook

Tokyo’s rise in the Global Power City Index reflects broader trends in global mobility, tourism, and economic resilience. As Japan continues to attract record numbers of international visitors, Tokyo is likely to further strengthen its standing as a leading global city in the years ahead.