The 252-meter bridge is locally nicknamed 'the encounter bridge' due to its length and the scenic journey across the water.
The island features a dense forest canopy consisting primarily of broad-leaved evergreen trees.
The island's walking path creates a full loop that allows visitors to traverse its entire interior without retracing their steps.
The bridge was significantly damaged by the 2011 tsunami and was repaired with financial support from the Taiwan Red Cross.
Fukuurajima is one of the few islands in Matsushima Bay that is easily accessible by foot from the mainland.
The name 'Fukuura' literally translates to 'Lucky Bay' or 'Fortune Bay'.
Fukuurajima is a small, uninhabited island in Matsushima Bay connected to the mainland by the 252-meter Fukuurabashi, a distinctive vermilion-lacquered pedestrian bridge. The island is designated as a prefectural nature park, featuring a circular network of walking trails that wind through dense, leafy coastal forests. Visitors can traverse the island to access several observation decks that offer panoramic views of the neighboring islands in the Matsushima archipelago. The island is known for its diverse flora, including over 250 species of plants, and serves as a quiet botanical reserve. The bridge itself survived the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, undergoing significant repairs before reopening. Because the island is protected, it remains largely undeveloped, lacking permanent residents or commercial facilities aside from the entrance gate.
The midpoint of the vermilion Fukuurabashi bridge looking back toward the mainland or forward toward the forest.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the island trails can be uneven and occasionally muddy after rain.
Bring your own water and snacks, as there are no shops or vending machines once you cross the bridge.
Apply insect repellent during the summer months, as the dense forest environment attracts mosquitoes.
Do not attempt to cross the bridge during high winds or severe weather, as it may be closed for safety.
The island may close temporarily during severe weather or high-wind events.
Stay on the designated marked trails to protect the local flora; do not remove any plants or shells.
