Introduction

The League of Historical Cities is an international organization comprising municipal governments from across the globe. It was established to enhance collaboration and exchange among historical cities under the unifying theme of “Preservation and Development of Historical Cities.”

The initiative was launched in 1987 when the City of Kyoto hosted the First World Conference of Historical Cities. This conference evolved into a permanent structure in 1994 with the formal establishment of the League. Since then, the City of Kyoto has served as both Chair and Secretariat of the organization, assuming a central leadership role.
In an era characterized by global fragmentation and deepening divisions, the future remains increasingly unpredictable. It is within this context that historical cities—representing the accumulated cultural wisdom of civilizations—are entrusted with a growing responsibility. The League affirms that strengthening cross-border interactions among cities, irrespective of national or ethnic differences, contributes meaningfully to the pursuit of global peace.

Kyoto, originally named Heiankyo (“Capital of Peace”), was founded with a deep aspiration for lasting harmony. Having preserved its cultural legacy for over 1,200 years, the city remains committed to the advancement of the League’s mission and to promoting peace in the international community. The League acknowledges the continued cooperation and contributions of its Director Cities and Member Cities with sincere appreciation.

Mission, Vision, and Goals

Mission:
The League of Historical Cities is dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and international solidarity among historical cities. By promoting dialogue and collaboration that transcend political boundaries, it seeks to contribute to cultural enrichment, urban sustainability, and lasting world peace.

Vision:
To serve as a global forum through which historical cities may engage in continuous cooperation, share knowledge, and collectively address urban and cultural challenges, thereby securing their heritage and enhancing their roles as custodians of human civilization.

Goals:

To contribute to the realization of enduring global peace through collaboration among historical cities.

To strengthen inter-city relationships by leveraging their shared historical and cultural foundations.

To facilitate regular and sustained dialogue, not only during the World Conferences but also as part of ongoing, everyday interactions.

To support the development and revitalization of each Member City through knowledge exchange and collaborative initiatives related to governance, urban life, and cultural preservation.

Structure

General Assembly

The General Assembly is the supreme decision-making body of the League and convenes in conjunction with the World Conference of Historical Cities. It consists of representatives from all Member Cities. Cities not yet members, but participating in the Conference, may attend as observers if they express intent to join.

The functions of the General Assembly include:

• Amending the Covenant of the League;
• Electing the principal officers;
• Approving and overseeing the implementation of League projects and policies.

Principal Officers and Board of Directors

The League’s leadership structure includes:

• One Chairperson
• Two Vice-Chairpersons
• Seven Directors (including the Vice-Chairpersons)
• One Auditor

All principal officers are elected by the General Assembly from among the Member Cities. Their term lasts four years, from the date of election until the following General Assembly at which successors are elected. The elected officers also form the League’s Board of Directors, which may be convened by the Chairperson as needed.

Secretariat

The City of Kyoto is entrusted with the role of the Secretariat of the League of Historical Cities. As such, it is responsible for the administration, coordination, and day-to-day operations of the League. The Secretariat supports the implementation of programs, facilitates communication among Member Cities, and ensures the smooth execution of the League’s strategic initiatives and activities.

Address: International and Multicultural Affairs Office, City of Kyoto
Teramachi-Oike, Nakagyo-ku,Kyoto City, Japan 604-8571

Tel:   +81-75-222-3072

Fax:   +81-75-222-3055

Website: The League of Historical Cities