Asahi Crab
A vibrant red crab shining like the morning sun, a summer specialty from tropical Miyazaki

About Asahi Crab

Asahi Crab (旭ガニ, Asahi gani) is a specialty of Miyazaki Prefecture. Its peak season typically falls in early summer and autumn, with the crabs caught around May—just before their spawning period—being especially prized for their full, flavorful meat and rich tomalley.

Unlike most crabs, which have a wide body and walk sideways, Asahi Crabs have an elongated oval shape and move either forward or backward because they cannot walk sideways. Their striking bright red-orange color is another unique characteristic. These crabs inhabit the sandy seabeds of the warm waters along Japan’s western coast, from southern Osumi Peninsula to southern Wakayama Prefecture, particularly in the southern Kyushu region. They live at depths of 10–50 meters and are sensitive to pressure and heat, meaning they do not survive long out of water. This makes their availability quite limited, with Miyazaki being one of the rare places where you can enjoy their fresh and delicious taste due to its proximity to the fishing grounds.

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