Created in 1974 and spanning 11 different prefectures, the Tokai Nature Trail was Japan’s very first long-distance nature trail, connecting Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park in Tokyo with Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park in Osaka. With a total route length of 1,697 km, this pathway was built to both protect the natural environment and allow visitors to enjoy hiking and walking all throughout the four seasons. The trail winds through the gorgeous Hokusetu Mountain Range and is dotted with numerous historical sites and scenic spots. Everyone from families with children to long-time hikers can pick a course to walk, go at their own pace, and enjoy the nature and the history along the trail. In addition to the seminal Tokai Nature Trail, at present there is a grand total of 21,000 km of trail spread among eight areas across the nation—Kyushu, Chugoku, Shikoku, the Tokyo Metropolian Area, Tohoku, Chubu Hokuriku, and Kinki. The popularity of the trails cannot be overstated, with over 40 million visitors every year.