OSAKA, JAPAN – JULY 13, 2025 – Japan’s vibrant city of Osaka has officially been named the world’s most attractive tourism city in 2025, according to the Yanolja Attractiveness Index, a global tourism ranking that analyzes data from 191 cities across 14 languages. Osaka has taken the top spot, surpassing some of the world’s most iconic travel destinations, including Paris, Kyoto, New York, and Seoul.
This milestone ranking reflects Osaka’s growing international appeal, driven by its dynamic urban culture, rich historical landmarks, culinary scene, and preparations as host city for the upcoming World Expo 2025.
How Osaka Climbed to the Top of Global Travel Rankings
The Yanolja Attractiveness Index, released by South Korea’s leading travel tech firm Yanolja Research, evaluates cities based on sentiment analysis of social media content and tourist feedback. The index monitors mentions of tourism-related phrases and tourist engagement across major platforms globally, offering a data-backed look at how travelers perceive top destinations.
In this year’s edition, Osaka emerged as the most positively discussed tourism city, a reflection of its wide appeal among diverse traveler demographics—from food lovers and history enthusiasts to digital nomads and cultural explorers.
A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Osaka’s allure lies in its unique ability to fuse tradition with innovation. The city is home to iconic cultural sites like the 16th-century Osaka Castle, ancient shrines, and centuries-old neighborhoods, while also offering futuristic entertainment districts and tech-driven urban experiences.
Neighborhoods like Dotonbori, glowing with neon signage and bustling nightlife, have become emblematic of the city’s modern charm. Tourists flock to this area for its vibrant entertainment scene, riverside walks, and mouth-watering street food. Meanwhile, calm escapes like Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and the Nakanoshima Art Museum reflect Osaka’s cultural depth.
Global Capital of Street Food and Culinary Tourism
Widely dubbed “the kitchen of Japan,” Osaka has long held a reputation as a global culinary powerhouse. Dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) are staples of the city’s beloved street food scene. Local markets such as Kuromon Ichiba and food alleys in Shinsekai remain must-visit destinations for food-driven travelers.
Culinary tourism is a key contributor to Osaka’s tourism boom. In recent surveys by the Japan Tourism Agency, international visitors cited Osaka’s food culture as one of their top reasons for visiting Japan—underscoring the city’s rising status as a world food capital.
The World Expo 2025: Osaka’s Global Stage
Adding to the city’s momentum is its selection as host of the upcoming World Expo 2025, which is expected to attract upwards of 28 million international visitors over six months. Themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the Expo will showcase innovations in sustainability, technology, and culture.
The global spotlight surrounding Expo 2025 has further elevated Osaka’s profile. The city has invested heavily in urban regeneration projects, transportation upgrades, and new hotel developments in preparation for the event. This infrastructural boost has also improved accessibility to surrounding regions such as Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, enhancing Osaka’s value as a central travel hub.
Shopping, Heritage, and Connected Travel
For shoppers, Osaka offers everything from high-end retail in Shinsaibashi to quirky boutiques in Amerikamura. The city’s expansive shopping scene appeals to a broad demographic of tourists, from luxury spenders to Gen Z travelers seeking offbeat finds.
The city also serves as a gateway to the Kansai region, with bullet train access to cultural destinations like Kyoto and natural getaways in Wakayama. This interconnectedness makes Osaka an ideal base for extended exploration throughout western Japan.
Cities Osaka Surpassed in the Rankings
While Osaka took the crown in 2025, Paris claimed the second spot, maintaining its long-standing appeal with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and elegant boulevards. The city continues to enchant travelers with its timeless romance, gourmet dining, and world-class fashion scene.
Kyoto, rich in heritage and Japanese tradition, ranked third, beloved for its Zen temples, historic geisha districts, and tea houses. The city offers a serene counterpart to Osaka’s urban buzz and remains a favorite for culture-driven travelers.
Seoul and New York rounded out the top five, praised for their vibrant city life, cultural fusion, and entertainment options. While New York remains a global powerhouse, blending history and modernity, Seoul is increasingly drawing digital-era travelers eager to experience its technological prowess and deep-rooted heritage.
A New Global Tourism Paradigm Led by Osaka
Osaka’s rise to the top of global tourism rankings reflects a shift in traveler priorities. Tourists in 2025 are seeking destinations that offer authenticity, cultural richness, affordability, and unique culinary experiences—all elements that Osaka delivers in abundance.
Its success story also signals Japan’s broader recovery and transformation in the post-pandemic tourism era. With strategic investments in infrastructure, cultural preservation, and global outreach, Japan is reclaiming its position as a top-tier international tourism destination.
Looking Ahead: Osaka’s Tourism Legacy
As the countdown to World Expo 2025 continues, Osaka is set to strengthen its global reputation even further. With sustainable tourism practices, strong connectivity, and a commitment to blending innovation with heritage, the city represents the future of urban tourism.
For travelers seeking a destination where modern excitement meets timeless tradition, Osaka is proving to be the world’s new tourism capital—a city that not only invites you to visit, but inspires you to return.
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