As the world’s population continues to grow, more and more megacities are popping up in every corner of the planet, and since India overtook China as the world’s most populous country last year, it’s natural to assume the city with the most people on the planet is in the country.
Jack Hobbs and Kris Boratyn
13:24, 19 May 2025
As Earth’s population continues to swell, megacities are sprouting up across the globe(Image: (Image: Getty))
As Earth’s population continues to swell, megacities are sprouting up across the globe. The world’s population currently sits at just over 8 billion and is projected to keep climbing.
While India now holds the title of the most populous country with nearly 1.5 billion inhabitants, it doesn’t house the world’s largest city. That honor goes to Japan, home to approximately 123 million people, with nearly 40 million of them crammed into one colossal city.
That megacity is Tokyo, which, according to the World Population Review, was the largest city on Earth in 2025 with a population of 37,036,200. Despite a slight dip from 37,115,000 in 2024, it still towers over other cities worldwide.
READ MORE: Melania Trump admits Barron still creating ‘unimaginable, unpredictable concerns’ in jab at DonaldREAD MORE: Pierce Brosnan breaks silence on return to James Bond role as fans are left reeling
The city covers an area of 13,452 square kilometres.(Image: (Image: Getty))
In comparison, London ranks 37th with a population of 9,840,740, making Tokyo almost four times larger in terms of population.
The city also spans an area of 13,452 square kilometers, as per BBC Science Focus. This space is packed with an average of 2,642 individuals per square kilometer, posing significant challenges for housing and transportation, reports the Express.
Tokyo has a population of 37,036,200 in 2025.(Image: (Image: Getty))
Due to the lack of space, some locals, particularly younger residents who wish to live closer to the city center, have resorted to living in tiny apartments as small as nine square meters.
Navigating the city can also be a challenge. Roads are frequently congested, and public transport is typically crowded, although it’s widely lauded for its timeliness and extensive coverage.
Due to the lack of space, some locals have resorted to living in tiny apartments as small as nine square meters(Image: (Image: Getty))
Despite these hurdles, Tokyo still ranks highly as a desirable place to live. According to Time Out’s Best Cities Survey 2025, Tokyo secured the 31st spot overall.
Residents have given it high marks for public transportation, excellent restaurants, and overall happiness, with 70% stating that the city brings them joy.
The city’s appeal to tourists is also on the rise due to the affordable yen, new attractions like Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado, and massive complexes such as Azabudai Hills.
These combine green spaces with shopping, art, and unique architecture.
According to CN Traveler, top things to do in Tokyo include visiting Shibuya Crossing, often referred to as the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection.
Another popular spot is the Tokyo Skytree – the tallest free-standing tower in the world at 2,080 feet, offering panoramic views of the city.
For those seeking some tranquility, Shinjuku Gyoen is a serene 144-acre garden that features Japanese, French, and English-style landscaping, perfect for cherry blossom season.
History enthusiasts can also visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Japan’s capital is also renowned for its food, especially sushi (some refer to Tokyo as the birthplace of sushi), so there is something for everyone.
For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here.
AloJapan.com