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Beating Tokyo: Kyoto Tops the List of Asia’s Best Travel Cities

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — When it comes to the best travel cities in Asia, many would probably name Tokyo in Japan or Bangkok in Thailand first. However, in the minds of many, Kyoto in Japan is actually the most attractive capital city in Asia. According to a survey conducted by the American travel magazine Cond...

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Reported by Chen Guanxin
 
When it comes to the best travel cities in Asia, many would probably name Tokyo in Japan or Bangkok in Thailand first. However, in the minds of many, Kyoto in Japan is actually the most attractive capital city in Asia. According to a survey conducted by the American travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler among its readers, Kyoto ranked first among Asia’s best travel cities with an overall average score of 81.6 across various criteria including culture, friendliness, city atmosphere, restaurants, accommodation, and shopping. Tokyo and Bangkok only came in at 8th and 9th place respectively.

Kyoto knocked out Tokyo and Bangkok to claim the top spot as Asia’s best travel city. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)

The Kyoto that claimed the top spot as Asia’s best travel city is most captivating for its famous historical sites and shrines such as Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji, as well as the ancient capital's charm steeped in history. It allows visitors to experience the blend of old and new Japan, creating a distinctive Japanese ambiance. The transitions and connections via transportation also offer a uniquely surreal feeling of stepping through different eras.
 
The second-ranked city, Hoi An in Vietnam, scored highest for its quaint city atmosphere, especially with its colorful buildings and old structures that make travelers feel as if they’re walking through a movie scene. The third-place city, Indonesia\搶鐗涙??, also exudes a rich local flavor\and blends harmoniously with\the unique features of its neighborhoods,\offering a delightful experience.
 

The rich historic charm of Hoi An in Vietnam makes you feel as if you're walking through a movie set. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)

Two cities tied for fourth place: Luang Prabang in Laos and Singapore. Luang Prabang also ranked first in the friendliness category with a score of 89.4, while Singapore received the highest marks for its restaurants and accommodation. Places ranked 6th to 10th are Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hong Kong, Tokyo in Japan, Bangkok in Thailand, and Siem Reap in Cambodia. Among them, Hong Kong scored highest in the shopping category, earning its reputation as Asia’s shopping paradise, while Siem Reap is home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat, giving it the top spot in the cultural evaluation.
 
 
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In\搶鐗涙??, nature offers a serene backdrop for a peaceful escape. (#Photo provided by the editorial department)

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