Students at an elementary school in Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture, recently got to enjoy an entire red snow crab during lunch, sparking smiles and excitement in the classroom. This delicious tradition, dating back to 2003, is a collaboration between the city and the local fisheries association, designed to teach children about regional food culture.
According to Japanese media outlet FNN, 61 students at Shinminato Houshouzu Elementary School feasted on crabs caught just the day before. The aroma of salt-boiled crab filled the room as the children cracked shells and savored the sweet, tender meat. Students praised the dish, saying things like, “The crabs in Toyama are especially sweet and delicious,” “I’m so happy to be born in Imizu City,” and “It’s rare to get crab for lunch—especially with the crab roe, it’s amazing!”
The tradition extends across the city: all 14 public elementary schools in Imizu, totaling 776 sixth-grade students, will get to enjoy red snow crab lunches before November 11.
According to Toyama Shimbun, the “Crab Lunch” has been an annual event since the days of old Shinminato City, aiming to immerse students in local natural and culinary culture. Shinminato Houshouzu Elementary’s principal, Makoto Kanaya, said, “We hope you remember this taste as you grow up and feel proud of your hometown.”
Shioya Toshiyuki, head of the local fisheries association, added, “We also hope this teaches respect for our commitment to fishing, even in the face of natural challenges like earthquakes.”
