The survey, released last Wednesday, ranked Copenhagen in second and Lisbon in third behind Tokyo. Singapore placed 14th, Seoul 17th, and Kyoto 20th.
Published annually by Monoclea U.K.-based global affairs and lifestyle magazine, the ranking is widely followed. It is based on responses from correspondents in around 40 cities worldwide, and evaluates everyday urban life for safety, public transport, green space, governance, culture, and nightlife. The 2026 edition placed particular emphasis on civic vision, security, and a city’s ability to bring “joy” to residents.
|
Visitors walk along Nakamise-dori Street as they visit Sensoji temple in Tokyo, Japan, Aug. 9, 2024. Photo by Reuters |
The magazine described Tokyo as “an outlier for its stability, calm, and security” amid growing global uncertainty.
It cited the city’s consistently low crime rate, strong sense of community despite its population of 14 million, and culture of everyday courtesy, reflected in orderly queues, quiet public transport, and attentive hospitality.
It also praised the city’s long-term approach to urban planning, and highlighting sustained investment in major infrastructure projects.
