In the secluded hot spring retreat of northern Kyoto—Amanohashidate—we’re launching the “Crab Marché” plan this November, where guests can enjoy a full course of premium live crab.
When it comes to winter delicacies in Japan, crab is the ultimate luxury. But are you settling for frozen crab?
At Marinetopia Resort’s “Crab Marché”, we offer an exceptional selection of top-brand live crabs from the northern Kyoto region, including Tsuiyama, Kasumi, and Shibayama.In this article, we’ll explain the difference between frozen and live crab and introduce seven accommodations where you can savor a full-course crab feast.
What’s the difference between frozen crab and live crab?
Have you ever felt disappointed when eating crab shabu-shabu, thinking, “The meat is thinner than I expected… there’s not much to eat”?
In fact, that might be because the crab was frozen.
Have you ever bought fresh fish from the supermarket and tried to simmer it at home, only to have the flesh fall apart or turn out dry and crumbly?
The same thing can happen with crab. Once it’s been frozen, the fibers in the meat break down, causing it to lose its springy texture and resulting in a dry, mealy mouthfeel.
Freezing also causes the meat to stick to the shell, making it harder to remove and leaving you with less meat to actually eat—a disappointing outcome.
Take a look at the comparison below:
On the left is frozen crab, and on the right is live crab.
With live crab, the meat comes out cleanly and smoothly from the shell, and because the texture is still intact, you can enjoy its naturally firm and plump bite.
Now compare pieces that have been briefly dipped in hot pot (shabu-shabu):
Again, the left side is frozen crab, and the right side is live crab.
The difference in the size of the meat is obvious at a glance!
Fresh live crab is far superior to frozen crab in both meat size and texture—it’s noticeably larger, firmer, and far more satisfying to eat.
About Marinetopia Resort’s “Crab Marché”
5 Key Points of the Crab Marché
・Affordable yet high quality
・Freshly caught crabs
・You can choose your own crab
・Enjoy your selected crab at your accommodation
・Perfect as a souvenir thanks to the low price
Marinetopia Resort’s “Crab Marché”, which launched on November 6, offers premium live branded crabs sourced from northern Kyoto and Hyogo Prefecture.
At the Crab Marché, you’ll find large tanks brimming with lively, freshly caught crabs. Because the crabs are purchased directly from fishing ports, bypassing wholesalers and retailers, they are available at prices lower than those found at markets.
The “Crab Marché Plan” is a luxurious accommodation package that allows guests to select their own crab and enjoy it as a full-course meal. This plan is extremely popular, with many guests returning year after year.
Crab dishes served in the Crab Marché Plan
The Crab Marché Plan is a special accommodation package available at selected properties, where you can enjoy an abundance of premium branded crabs such as Tsuiyama, Kasumi, and Shibayama.
Crab Sashimi
One of the delicacies you can enjoy only with live crab is crab sashimi. We highly recommend tasting the thick, succulent crab meat just as it is.
You’ll be amazed by the natural sweetness that spreads in your mouth with the first bite. The springy texture and the pure, rich flavor of the crab are truly exceptional—something you won’t experience anywhere else.
Crab Shabu-shabu (Crab Hot Pot)
Live crab is best enjoyed shabu-shabu style!
The moment you briefly dip it into hot water, the meat bursts open in a fluffy bloom. Savor the pure joy of biting into a mouthful of sweet, succulent crab meat.
Grilled Crab
A great way to bring out the crab’s natural flavor is by grilling it.
Experience how the texture and sweetness of the meat transform as it cooks — you’ll find yourself captivated by the irresistible aroma and taste of perfectly grilled crab.
Grilled Crab Butter in the Shell
After enjoying the grilled crab, be sure to try “Grilled Crab Miso in the Shell.”
The crab meat is delicately picked and placed back into the shell, then mixed with rich crab miso. The combination of the sweet, tender crab meat and the briny aroma of the miso creates an exquisite flavor that’s truly unforgettable.
For those who love sake, we also recommend pouring a bit of Japanese sake into the leftover shell and drinking it — a classic way to savor every last drop of crab miso.
Kani Nabe (Crab Hot Pot),Crab Rice Porridge / Crab Zosui
A steaming hot crab hot pot is the perfect dish for the cold season.
Enjoy the plump, juicy crab meat together with vegetables and tofu infused with the rich umami of crab. With every bite, the savory flavor spreads through your mouth, filling you with warmth and happiness.
And don’t forget to finish off with crab zosui (rice porridge) — the flavorful broth makes the perfect comforting finale.
Five Selected Accommodation Facilities Offering the Crab Marché Plan
The Crab Marché Plan is available at the following five accommodation facilities.
Each one offers a luxurious private villa where you can fully relax and enjoy a hot spring bath.
It’s the perfect choice for those who want to spend a special time with loved ones or treat themselves and someone special to a well-deserved reward at the end of the year.
Rurihama — Private Villa with Hot Spring, Directly Connected to the Crab Marché
Rurihama is home to a total of 20 private villas, each with its own natural hot spring and private spa. The lineup includes various types of accommodations, such as villas with private saunas, heated pools, and spacious layouts that can accommodate up to 8 guests.
Whether you want to “treat your parents to the best crab they’ve ever had” or “throw an unforgettable birthday celebration for a close friend,” Rurihama offers the perfect setting to make it happen.
All villa types are equipped with Kinsen (golden hot spring water), and some feature Ginsen (silver hot spring water) or relaxing Jacuzzi baths as well. The interiors vary from villa to villa—some feature baths surrounded by flowers reminiscent of a Japanese garden, while others have warm wooden designs that create a cozy atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the soothing hot spring water and feel your mind and body unwind in complete comfort.
| Natural Hot Spring & Private SPA Rurinohama Address: 3100-8 Hioki, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture Check-in Location: Rurinohama Activity Center (Crab Marché) Tel: 050-3161-4582 (10:00 – 18:00) Website: https://en.rurinohama.com/ |
【Marinetopia The Suite】Quality Family Time Around the Irori (Traditional Sunken Hearth)
Located on a hill overlooking the magnificent natural scenery of Amanohashidate, Marinetopia The Suite offers a private and luxurious retreat.
The property features 13 standalone suite villas, ranging from Deluxe Suites and Suites to Standard types, as well as dog-friendly villas where you can stay with your beloved pet.
Each villa has its own private “Silver Hot Spring” bath, while the management building also houses the private “Kai” bath, which uses Golden Hot Spring water. “Kai” is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a romantic atmosphere that makes it perfect for couples.
In the dining area equipped with a traditional Japanese irori (sunken hearth), guests can gather around the hearth to enjoy freshly prepared crab together. This authentic setting can only be found at Marinetopia The Suite, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience a uniquely Japanese ambiance.
| Marinetopia The Suite Address: 4054 Hioki, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture TEL: 050-3161-4574 (Reception hours: 10:00–18:00) Website: https://www.marinetopia-suite.com/ |
【MEZZO ALL SUITE VILLAS】Great access from Amanohashidate Station!
Located just a 10-minute walk from Amanohashidate Station, MEZZO ALL SUITE VILLAS offers excellent access to popular sightseeing spots such as Amanohashidate View Land and Kasamatsu Park—perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience.
If you have a lot of luggage and prefer not to walk, taking a taxi is also recommended. The villa will refund the taxi fare from Amanohashidate Station to the accommodation.
Each of the four villas is equipped with an open-air jacuzzi bath and features a private garden with an ethanol stove, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious, private retreat all to yourself.
| MEZZO ALL SUITE VILLAS Address: 1058-13 Mannen, Miyazu, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Tel: 050-3161-4573 (Reception hours: 9:00 – 18:00) Website: https://en.mezzo-allsuite.com/ |
[Hanashōbu] Perfect for Hot Spring Lovers!
The private villa “Hanashobu” is limited to just four groups per day, offering an exclusive one-building rental style.
Each villa is equipped with an open-air bath featuring Kin-onsen (golden hot spring), rock salt bath, and medicinal herb bath, making it ideal for guests who want to fully enjoy the hot springs in complete privacy without worrying about those around them.
Each room has a Japanese-inspired name — Hanahime, Shiho, Azumi, and Omokage — and the interior décor reflects these themes. As you relax indoors, take in the refined ambiance that evokes the essence of traditional Japan.
All rooms can accommodate up to five guests, making them a perfect choice for trips with grandparents and family.
| Hana Shoubu Address: 4267 Hioki, Miyazu-shi, Kyoto Prefecture Check-in Location: Rurinohama Activity Center (Crab Marché) Tel: 050-3161-4572 Website: https://www.hana-syoubu.jp/ |
[Miyazu Harbor] Ultimate Resort Villa Just Steps from the Sea — Enjoy Breathtaking Sunsets
“Miyazu Harbor” is a luxurious resort villa where you can enjoy both glamping and a breathtaking infinity pool that seems to merge seamlessly with Miyazu Bay.
Because each villa is reserved for private use, it’s an excellent choice for anniversaries, girls’ get-togethers, or parties. With its unbeatable location right on the water’s edge (0 km to the sea), you can fully immerse yourself in the sound of the waves and the scent of the ocean. The view at sunset, when the sky is reflected on the water’s surface, is simply beyond words.
Each guest room is equipped with a unique “Natural Mineral Hot Spring Bath” (Tennen Kōseki Kuguri-yu). This artificial hot spring is created by circulating water through natural minerals—Shinmei Stone from Hokkaido and mineral deposits from Futamata Hot Spring—before supplying it to the bath.
The water is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for children, elderly guests, and even pregnant or postpartum women with sensitive skin.
| Miyazu Harbor Address: 405-7 Namiro, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Tel: 050-3161-4571 (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM) Website: https://www.m-harbor.jp/ |
Summary
This time, we introduced the key features of the Marinetopia Resort Crab Marché and the variety of crab dishes you can enjoy with the Crab Marché Plan.
The Crab Marché Plan is a limited-time offer, available from early November 2025 to mid-March 2026.
Since reservations for peak periods such as the year-end and New Year holidays fill up quickly, early booking is highly recommended.Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, this plan is the perfect way to enjoy a memorable trip with your loved ones.
