Hanasakigani (Paralithodes brevipes)
The spiny king crab “Hanasakigani”is actually a type of hermit crab. I first tasted it 35 years ago in Nemuro. It was my first visit to eastern Hokkaido during the summer holidays. Every bird I saw was a new sight to me. I popped into Nemuro Station for lunch, where a lady at the fishmonger’s said, ‘It’s delicious, so do give it a try.’ When I put it in my mouth, the sweetness of the crab filled my palate, and I was astonished—wondering what on earth the crab I’d eaten before had actually been. The shell and legs are covered…
