The Delicious Matsuba Crabs of Tottori

During the winter season, from November to early March, flocks of travelers venture to Tottori Prefecture to find a particular set of claws. Of course, they are seeking out the delicious and dense Matsuba crab. There’s even an annual event dedicated to this delicacy, coined as Matsuba Crab Day.

The Delicious Matsuba Crabs of Tottori

The most popular destinations to consume these male snow crabs are Tottori Harbour in Tottori City and Sakaiminato.The locals will argue that crabs flock to one or the other area the most and therefore taste better, but we found both locations to have great tasting Matsuba!

The Delicious Matsuba Crabs of Tottori

Every other day or so, there is an auction held at Tottori Harbour with many a restauranteur fighting for their stake of mouth-watering crab meat. Although it isn’t open to the general public, some of the guesthouse owners might be connected enough to arrange a visit for you. We recommend Guesthouse Shantei.

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Where to Eat Matsuba Crab

After the restaurant owners get their hands on fresh Matsuba crab, they’re off to the kitchen. While there are numerous preparation methods, the most popular is boiling. Home cooking in Tottori consists of miso soup with crab and seasoned rice.

We recommend dropping by Genkitei in Sakaiminato for crab paradise. Of course, ordering the entire crab is ideal. But if they are sold out, go for the crab donburi. Once you taste the sweet, tender character of the crab atop freshly steamed rice, you won’t leave the same person. As it is a popular tourist destination, swing by early to ensure you get seats and an order of the entire crab. Considering it’s a few minutes walk from Sakaiminato Station, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding this heavenly crab abode.

Travel Guide

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Nakaura Fish Market in Sakaiminato

Let ole Kitaro and his ghostly presence guide you into the Nakaura Fish Market in Sakaiminato. Don’t worry; there is plenty of life to be had inside. Apart from crab, you can also pick up fresh seafood here at competitive prices for the quality.

There are also plenty of other restaurants around the area offering Matsuba crab. Bear in mind though, most of these delicately prepared creatures must be reserved at least a day in advance. The restaurant nearby, Yumigahama, is well-known for its crab donburi, claiming the #1 spot in the area on their website.

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Crab Museum

If you’re feeling more curious than hungry, head to the Crab Museum. With a variety of different crabs to see and fish to touch, this is a great spot for children. As most of the events inside are arranged for children, expect to enjoy the mini-aquarium with other excited mini-people. Attendance is free, so what are you waiting for?

The Matsuba crab is the icon of Tottori Prefecture and especially Sakaiminato and Tottori Harbour. Their rich, tender taste draws people from all over the world during the winter season.

guest house Shanchin