Katsurashiima is the westernmost island of Urato, and the closest to the mainland of Shiogama. The narrow island is home to two villages, Katsurashima to the west and Ishihama to the east.
Visitors can feel the history of the islands as they walk along hiking trails, enjoying stunning lookouts over Matsushima Bay, Matsusaki Shrine, the ”Ameyoshi” stone and other mysterious spots, though the island is best known for its beautiful sandy beaches with calm waves facing-out to the vast Pacific.
The fishing industry is the mainstay of the island, and the seaweed and oysters cultivated in the nutrient-rich bay are particularly famous for their excellent taste and quality. In early spring, the night sea is beautifully lit by fires of the whitebait fishermen; a sight that heralds the coming of spring in the Urato Islands.
