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[Vince Keegan]

02. Jakarta, Indonesia



 Urban area: 26 million people
City: 9.6 million people

Jakarta has been booming since 2005 after suffering economic crises and disasters like floods and earthquakes in recent decades. Jakarta's economy has boosted Indonesia’s economy to a growth rate of 6 percent.

Urban Detail — Despite many wide roads, Jakarta suffers from terrible traffic congestion. To reduce traffic jams, some major roads have a 'three in one' rule during rush hours, prohibiting fewer than three passengers per car. (Source: Reuters)

[Vince Keegan]

01. Tokyo, Japan



 Urban area: 37.2 million people
City: 8.9 million people

Greater Tokyo is the largest urban agglomeration in the world, swallowing up the neighboring cities of Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Chiba. Despite its size, Tokyo has very efficient public transportation, which accounts for almost 80 percent of all journeys.

Urban Detail — Tokyo Bay has been gradually filled up to create more living space. Odaiba, an island made from waste, has become one of Tokyo’s most interesting tourist spots and destinations for day trippers. (Source: Miki Yokoyama)