Crab Claw Statue - Hokkaido

Crab Claw Statue (カニの爪オブジェ) is the most popular landmark of Monbetsu City. It is located at Motomonbetsu in Mombetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Crab Claw Statue

Crab Claw Statue Details

The Crab Claw Statue also referred to as the Crab Claw Monument, located in Monbetsu City, is a towering piece of art that has become a symbol of the region’s creativity and cultural pride. Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating landmark.

Crab Claw Statue - Monbetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture

The Crab Claw Statue was created in 1983 as part of the "Drift Ice Art Festival" project. It was the brainchild of sculptor Toshi Nagasaki, Hisao Kuwabara from the Monbetsu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the local citizens of Monbetsu. This collaborative effort highlights the community’s passion for blending art with their unique natural environment.

Specifications and Design

The Crab Claw Statue was created in Showa 58

This massive sculpture stands at an impressive 12 meters tall, spans 6 meters wide, and weighs 7 tons. Originally, the Crab Claw Statue floated on the Okhotsk Sea during the drift ice season, representing the harmony of the blue sky and the pure white expanse of the frozen sea. Today, it resides permanently on land, allowing visitors to admire its design year-round.

Disappearing Companions

When the Crab Claw Statue was first unveiled, it was accompanied by two other sculptures: the "Parent and Child Salmon" and the "Pyramid-shaped" objects. Unfortunately, these pieces have since disappeared due to aging, leaving the Crab Claw Statue as the sole survivor of this artistic project.

Monbetsu’s Pride on Display

The Lifelong Learning Division of the Monbetsu City Board of Education highlights the significance of the statue through a YouTube feature titled "Monbetsu’s Symbol: Crab Claws." This video emphasizes its role as a cherished symbol of the city’s identity.

What to Do at the Crab Claw Statue

Nothing much to do here but hug the Crab Claw Statue

While the site doesn’t offer activities or interactive elements, it’s a fantastic spot for taking memorable photos. Tourists are encouraged to stay as long as they like, capturing the unique structure from various angles and soaking in its artistic and historical significance.

Team Nicerio visits Crab Claw Statue

My family and I visited the Crab Claw Statue for the first time on May 28, 2023. It marked my 573rd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. We didn't miss the opportunity to visit this unique-looking statue, as it is the symbol of Monbetsu City. As a matter of fact, it was drizzling when we got there, so we did our best to make the most out of our visit. Regardless, we were all happy that we finally saw this popular landmark with our own eyes. 

Crab Claw Statue Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore the Crab Claw Statue grounds. 

Crab Claw Statue Operating Hours

The Crab Claw Statue is open 24/7.

Why Visit the Crab Claw Statue?

The Crab Claw Statue isn’t just a sculpture; it’s a story of community effort, artistic ambition, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Okhotsk region. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates unique landmarks, the Crab Claw Statue is a must-see when visiting Monbetsu.

Getting to the Crab Claw Statue

 

The best way to reach Crab Claw Statue is by private or rental car. However, if you plan to commute, here’s a convenient route: 

From Asahikawa Station, take the Okhotsk-Taisetsu 1 Limited Express Abashiri train operated by the Hokkaido Railway Company and get off at Engaru Station. From there, head to the Engaru bus stop and transfer to the Yubetsu/Monbetsu Line Monbetsu (via Yubetsu) bus operated by the Kitami Bus Company. Disembark at the Oho-Tsukutawa-Iriguchi bus stop, then walk approximately 750 meters to reach the Crab Claw Statue.

Travel time: 4 hours and 18 minutes

Fare: 6470 yen

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