With global travel becoming increasingly accessible, tourism has become an indispensable part of modern life. However, some renowned destinations are facing closure or disappearance due to natural disasters, operational difficulties, or the pressures of mass tourism. CNN recently highlighted eight tourist attractions at risk of closure, including private alleys in Kyoto's Gion district in Japan.
Iconic U.S. Landmarks Dim Their Lights
Two major landmarks in Las Vegas, USA, closed in 2024. The Mirage Hotel & Casino, which opened in 1989, will be redeveloped by Hard Rock International into a guitar-shaped hotel. Meanwhile, the Tropicana Las Vegas, a hotel with a 67-year history, was demolished in October to make way for a new stadium for the Oakland Athletics Major League Baseball team.
The Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room at the Rubin Museum of Art (Photo/ARTouch)
Classic Parisian Cabaret Shuts Down
Chez Michou, a renowned cabaret in Paris, France, famous for its drag performances, faced operational difficulties following the death of its founder, Michou, in 2020. The cabaret recently announced its closure, ending over 60 years of performances.
Art Museums Transition or Close
The Rubin Museum of Art in New York City, USA, closed its doors in October this year. It plans to transform into a non-physical art institution, with its popular Tibetan Buddhist shrine display moving to the Brooklyn Museum. Similarly, the Fotografiska Swedish Photography Museum in New York shut down in September but plans to reopen at a new location in the city.
Natural Disasters Destroy Landmarks
The Wayfarers Chapel in California, known as the "Glass Church," was forced to close due to landslide risks exacerbated by climate change. It will be relocated and rebuilt in the future. Additionally, the Double Arch in Utah's Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a natural arch approximately 190 million years old, collapsed this year due to weathering and erosion.
Private alleys in Kyoto's Gion district will be closed (Photo/Courtesy of the Japan Tourism Bureau website).
Kyoto’s Gion District Partially Closes Alleys
In Japan, private alleys in Kyoto's Gion district will be closed due to tourism pressure and issues with visitors harassing geisha. Residents voted to block access to certain alleys, while main roads remain open to preserve cultural tourism.
Technology Museum Closes Permanently
The Living Computers: Museum + Labs in Seattle, USA, founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, showcased vintage computers and technological devices, allowing visitors to interact with them. After temporarily closing during the pandemic, the museum announced its permanent closure this year.
