New York – November 6, 2025: Asuka~Prefecture, Koyasan~Prefecture, Shodoshima~Prefecture and Tonosho~Prefecture were selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organization as four of
the 52 “Best Tourism Villages” of 2025. Recognized for advancing rural development through tourism, these four towns highlight Japan’s sustained leadership in rural tourism and its commitment to conserving cultural and natural heritage.
With these four additions, Japan now counts 12 villages in total that have been acknowledged by the UN since the initiative’s launch in 2021.
For the full list of “Best Tourism Villages,” : https://www.untourism.int/news/un-tourism-announces-best-tourism-villages-2025
ABOUT JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION (JNTO)
As the official tourism board, JNTO seeks to inspire international travelers to visit Japan. Focusing on sustainability, diversity and preservation of its history and culture, JNTO encourages travelers to explore the country while supporting local businesses, learning about indigenous cultures, and helping conserve its natural sites.
For more information about travel to Japan, visit https://www.japan.travel/en/us or the JNTO pages on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube. To contact the New York office of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) directly, please e-mail jntonyc_press@jnto.go.jp.
