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🗞️ Driving the news: Time Out has unveiled its 2025 ranking of the world’s coolest neighborhoods, with Jimbōchō in Tokyo claiming the top spot. Known as a haven for book lovers, the area features more than 130 vintage bookstores alongside a vibrant mix of coffee shops and traditional curry houses
• The list, compiled from global editor insights and local surveys, highlights neighborhoods offering rich community culture, creativity, and distinctive local character
🔭 The context: Time Out’s annual “coolest neighborhoods” list evaluates areas based on culture, livability, food and drink, community engagement, and what the magazine calls a “sense of nowness”
• The 2025 edition leans heavily into localism and under-the-radar spots that resonate with residents — not just tourists
• Alongside well-known cultural quarters like Camberwell in London, the list celebrates emerging creative hubs such as Borgerhout (Antwerp) and Barra Funda (São Paulo)
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Highlighting community-focused urban areas promotes sustainable tourism and supports local economies, reducing pressure on overcrowded landmarks
• These rankings also serve as a blueprint for city planners and developers seeking to create inclusive, vibrant, and environmentally conscious neighborhoods
• As cities face rising urbanisation challenges, showcasing areas with strong local identity and liveability is increasingly valuable
⏭️ What’s next: As interest in sustainable and authentic travel grows, neighborhoods like Jimbōchō and Avondale (Chicago) are likely to see increased international attention
• This could boost local economies but may also bring gentrification pressures
• Cities featured in the list may invest further in cultural preservation, public transport, and small business support to maintain their appeal while ensuring equitable growth
💬 One quote: “The biggest takeaway... is just how much our neighborhoods are shaped by, and for, their local communities,” said Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out.
📈 One stat: Jimbōchō, Tokyo, home to over 130 vintage bookstores, has been named the world’s coolest neighborhood for 2025
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