A record-breaking snow crab was sold in Japan for a staggering 5 million yen ($46,000) at an auction in Tottori. This prized specimen, a male crab weighing 1.2 kg (2.7 pounds) and with a width of 14.6 cm (5.74 inches), captivated buyers.

According to Tottori prefecture's fishery promotion division, this marks the highest price ever paid for a snow crab at auction.

The prized snow crab, a male, weighed 1.2 kg (2.7 pounds) and spanned 14.6 cm (5.74 inches) in width.

The winning bid this week was placed by Tetsuji Hamashita, president of the seafood wholesaler Hanashita Shoten.

This $46,000 snow crab is destined for a select group of diners at an exclusive restaurant in Tokyo's upscale Ginza district.

While acknowledging the extraordinary price, Hamashita remarked to Dinogo, 'I know it’s extreme, but it's tradition. I'm confident the crab's flavor justifies the cost.'

The snow crab hunting season kicked off on Wednesday, November 6, with the first auction, known as the 'festive quotation market,' held the following day.

Although it's common for prices to soar on opening day – with bidders eager to secure the season's first and finest catch – Hamashita had anticipated a winning bid around 3 million yen.

The price caught even the auction attendees off guard, with many cheering 'banzai' (a wish for 'long life') and applauding the remarkable sale.

Snow crab, a prized delicacy in Japan, is found in the waters off Tottori prefecture, located between Osaka and Hiroshima on Honshu, Japan's main island.

Known as 'zuwaigani' in Japanese, snow crabs are traditionally harvested during the colder months of the year.

The 'five shining star' label is inspired by the crab's distinctive shape, as well as its exceptional quality, including long legs, plump and firm meat, and rich, creamy innards.