#Japan #Tokyo #TOURISE Awards #Best Destination

Tokyo's Historic Win at the 2025 TOURISE Awards

On November 11, 2025, Tokyo made headlines by clinching three major awards at the inaugural TOURISE Awards held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This prestigious ceremony, conducted under the patronage of His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, recognized Tokyo as the "Best Overall Destination," alongside titles for "Best Food & Gourmet Destination" and "Best Entertainment Destination."

This triumphant recognition cements Tokyo's reputation as a world-class tourist hub, known for its innovative offerings, vibrant culture, and unique experiences. As the first-ever host of the TOURISE Awards, Tokyo outshone other global contenders, showcasing its commitment to excellence in various aspects of tourism.

Tokyo: A Culinary Powerhouse

In the category of "Best Food & Gourmet Destination," Tokyo emerged victorious over renowned cities such as London and Hong Kong. The city's wide array of culinary offerings, from Michelin-starred establishments to beloved local eateries, earned accolades for their quality and innovation. The city's culinary scene strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and authentic flavors. This dedication to gastronomy not only enchants visitors but also establishes Tokyo as a beacon of global food culture.

A Hub of Entertainment

Tokyo also excelled in the "Best Entertainment Destination" category, surpassing contenders like Seoul and Mexico City. The city's entertainment offerings include world-class theme parks, immersive attractions, and a thriving music and cultural scene that cater to a diverse range of preferences. With its ability to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers, Tokyo is recognized as a model for the next generation of tourism.

The judges praised the consistent excellence across all visitor experiences, giving Tokyo the unanimous top honor, the "Best Overall Destination Award." The city's Deputy Governor, Akiko Matsumoto, proudly accepted this prestigious award on behalf of Tokyo, highlighting the city's efforts to enhance tourism.

Celebrating Achievement

The award ceremony, held at The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, featured a lavish dinner prepared by notable chef Nawal Al-Khlawi, alongside an impressive performance by international vocalist Lauren Allred. Alred's stunning attire, crafted by Saudi fashion designer Mashael Al-Faris and adorned with exquisite jewelry from the Saudi brand "APOA (A Piece of Art)," further enriched the evening's celebrations. The menu featured dishes that merged the diverse culinary traditions of Saudi Arabia with global flavors—embodying TOURISE's mission of bridging cultures through hospitality.

An Esteemed Judging Panel

The awards were decided by an independent panel comprising leaders from various fields, including representatives from Forbes Travel Guide, Michelin Guide, Tate Modern, Condé Nast, and the British Fashion Council. This diverse expertise ensured a thorough evaluation process, reflecting the depth and richness of the tourism experience in each nominated city. The judges noted, "Tokyo stood out across all categories, demonstrating a unique blend of quality, innovation, and authenticity. By seamlessly merging tradition with modernity, Tokyo has set a new gold standard in global tourism."

A New Benchmark in Global Tourism

The recognition of Tokyo at the 2025 TOURISE Awards heralds a new standard in global tourism. The awards not only celebrate cultural, culinary, adventure, and entertainment excellence but also inspire future developments in the tourism sector.

As TOURISE continues to seek out and honor destinations that resonate with travelers and create unforgettable experiences, these awards serve as a testament to the potential of tourism to forge connections and elevate global cultures.

For further insights into TOURISE and its upcoming initiatives, visit www.tourise.com. Together, we look forward to shaping the future of tourism for the next 50 years and beyond.