Japan's cities top liveability rankings with friction-free design

Japan's cities are celebrated for their liveability, with Osaka and Tokyo ranking in the top 10 of the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2026 Global Liveability Index. The country's success is attributed to intentional design choices that reduce everyday friction, such as covered shopping streets, accessible transit, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Residents highlight the ease of daily life, from grocery shopping on foot to navigating stations without barriers, reflecting a national commitment to inclusive urban planning.