15. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto—famous for its temples, shrines, and vibrant geisha culture—has grown cautiously. In 2007, the government put a cap on building height to preserve the centuries-old landscape. Nonetheless, a surprisingly modern city is emerging as stylish restaurants, shops, and inns pop up in machiya, or wooden merchants’ houses. The 16th and 21st centuries collide at spots like Iyemon Salon Kyoto, with a contemporary crafts shop, chic café, and steel-and-glass gallery exhibiting 450-year-old embroidered kimonos.