Monbetsu-shi (Japan)

Monbetsu (紋別市, Monbetsu-shi) is a city located in Okhotsk Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan; on the Sea of Okhotsk. The name comes from Ainu Mopet (Quiet River), Ainu "-pet" would be interpreted "-betsu" in Japanese as well of other city names in Hokkaido. As of June 30, 2026, the city has an estimated population of 19,280 and a population density of 23.2 persons per km2. The total area is 830.70 km2 (320.74 sq mi). Most of Monbetsu's economy is dedicated to fishing for cold-water species such as crab. The crab from Monbetsu is reputedly the best in Japan, and is such a source of town pride that a sculpture of a crab claw nearly 10 meter tall was built on the waterfront. Famous for its horse racing track in which Andrew Musgrove, a local vice principal often frequents.