Key points about red snow crab from Sakaiminato
- Sakaiminato boasts the largest catch of red snow crab in Japan. Approximately 60% of the national catch is landed in Sakaiminato.
- Red snow crabs, caught in the deep sea at depths of 800 to 2,700 meters, are characterized by their intense sweetness.
- The fishing season runs from September to June of the following year. If your port call coincides with the fishing season, you'll have a chance to enjoy fresh crab.
Last verified: September 29, 2026 (Source at the end of this page)
What kind of dishes are made with red snow crab?
Red snow crabs turn a vibrant red when boiled, and their appeal lies in the fact that they can be enjoyed at a more affordable price compared to the high-end snow crab (Matsuba crab). Sakaiminato is one of the leading fishing ports in Japan, where tuna, horse mackerel, sardines, and other seafood are landed.
You can enjoy crab in various dishes at different restaurants, such as crab soup, crab rice bowls, and boiled crab.
If you're going to eat from the port
| Direct sales outlets and restaurants in Sakaiminato City | There are direct sales outlets selling fresh seafood and restaurants serving crab dishes. |
|---|---|
| Around Mizuki Shigeru Road | This street, lined with bronze statues of yokai (Japanese supernatural creatures), stretches from JR Sakaiminato Station. There are also shops selling crabs and other seafood. It's about a 15-minute drive from Sakaiminato Yumeminato Terminal (a shuttle bus is available on some days). |
For details on the docking location and access, see "Sakaiminato Cruise Port GuidePlease see "".
Store Map
Clicking on a store on the map will allow you to check its opening hours and customer reviews (Google Maps).
Tips for enjoying your port call
- Outside of the fishing season (September to June of the following year), the fish may be frozen or processed.
- If peeling the shells is too much trouble, I recommend a crab rice bowl with the meat already shredded.
- If you combine it with a stroll along Mizuki Shigeru Road, you can enjoy it in half a day.
Please tell me what you found delicious.
If you ate snow crab in Sakaiminato on your cruise port call day, please share the name of the restaurant and your impressions using the "Write a Review" link at the bottom of this page. It will be helpful for future visitors. Posts in languages other than Japanese, such as English, are also welcome.
FAQ
Q1When is the peak season for red snow crabs in Sakaiminato?
The fishing season runs from September to June of the following year.
Q2Why are red snow crabs from Sakaiminato famous?
This is because Sakaiminato boasts the largest catch of red snow crab in Japan, accounting for approximately 60% of the national total.
Source/Reference Information
- ToriNet (Tottori Prefecture Official) "Red Snow Crab"
- Tottori Travel (Official Tottori Prefecture Tourism) "Red Snow Crab"
- Sakaiminato (Sakaiminato Tourist Guide): "The Border Port of the Fishing Industry!"
Last updated: September 29, 2026. Business hours and services are subject to change. Please let us know of any issues through reviews or inquiries.
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