Kanazawa’s Winter Treasure: KANOU Crab & KOBAKO Crab at Omicho market
- In Kanazawa House
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
■ Table of Contents
Introduction: Winter Gourmet Season in Kanazawa
What Are Kanou Crab and Kobako Crab?
The Crab Culture at Omicho Market
Traditional Kanazawa Cuisine Featuring Crab
Perfect Pairings: Crab and Japanese Sake
Where to Enjoy and Experience Kanou & Kobako Crab
Plan Your Culinary Journey in Kanazawa
1. Introduction: Winter Gourmet Season in Kanazawa
Every November, when the Sea of Japan turns deep blue and the snow begins to dust the rooftops of Kanazawa, a special culinary season begins — the season of Kanou Crab (加能ガニ) and Kobako Crab (香箱ガニ). For locals and visitors alike, these crabs symbolize winter’s arrival, representing freshness, craftsmanship, and the art of Japanese seafood.
2. What Are Kanou Crab and Kobako Crab?
Kanou Crab (加能ガニ) refers to male snow crab caught along the Ishikawa coast. Each crab tagged with a blue label guarantees it was landed at one of Ishikawa’s ports such as Hashidate, Kanaiwa, or Kanazawa.
香箱ガニ（Kobako Crab） is the female snow crab, smaller but incredibly flavorful. Inside, it holds eggs (uchiko and sotoko)—a delicacy beloved by gourmets for its rich umami and creamy texture.
3. The Crab Culture at Omicho Market
No visit to Kanazawa is complete without a stroll through Omicho Market (近江町市場), known as “Kanazawa’s Kitchen.” The market becomes a sea of vibrant reds and oranges each November, as stalls display freshly caught Kanou and Kobako crabs.
4. Traditional Kanazawa Cuisine Featuring Crab
Kanazawa’s chefs express their artistry through delicate dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients. In winter, crab appears in kaiseki (multi-course meals), sushi, and even in nimono (simmered dishes).
5. Perfect Pairings: Crab and Japanese Sake
Kanazawa is home to long-established sake breweries such as Fukumitsuya and Yachiya, producing sake that perfectly complements seafood. The rich umami of crab pairs beautifully with junmai sake — especially those brewed with soft Kanazawa water.
6. Where to Enjoy and Experience Kanou & Kobako Crab
If you wish to taste the finest crab dishes, visit Kaiseki restaurants or ryotei such as Kinjo-ro or Otomo-ro in Kanazawa. For a more interactive experience, book a cooking class or seafood tasting tour through In Kanazawa House — where local chefs teach you how to prepare and plate crab dishes with Japanese aesthetics.
7. Plan Your Culinary Journey in Kanazawa
Winter in Kanazawa is more than just cold weather — it’s a celebration of taste, culture, and craftsmanship. Whether you savor crab at a Michelin-starred restaurant, explore Omicho Market with a local guide, or learn to cook with sake pairing, each experience connects you to Kanazawa’s living heritage
