Research Progress in Nature Tourism

This chapter, as an introductory note to the book, articulates the aim of the book while reviewing the empirical works transpiring in the last three decades. As for the book structure, it highlights three parts of the synopses the phenomenon of nature tourism. The first part centers on wellbeing—an optimal benefit of nature tourism. The second part examines contemporary issues from both the supply and demand sides of tourism. The last section of the book reports case studies from seven rich economies (i.e., Australia, Japan, Norway, Finland, Germany, France, and the USA), two most populous emerging economies (i.e. China and India), two newly industrialized countries (i.e. South Korea and Taiwan), and African nations. Furthermore, the concluding part of the book summarizes the updated knowledge presented throughout, while offering recommendations for future research. Regarding empirical works on nature tourism, this chapter delivers analytical remarks on four investigative realms of significance: (1) environmental row and conservation, (2) tourist experiences, (3) impacts on community and nature, and (4) management and development.