noun
Iwagaki oyster; Crassostrea nippona
A large, thick-shelled oyster native to Japan, prized as a summer delicacy. Often eaten raw or grilled.
夏になると、岩牡蠣が旬を迎えます。
In summer, Iwagaki oysters come into season.
この店の岩牡蠣は大きくてクリーミーだ。
The Iwagaki oysters at this restaurant are large and creamy.
Magaki (Crassostrea gigas) is the more common Pacific oyster, typically smaller and eaten in winter, while Iwagaki is a larger summer oyster.
Compound of 岩 (iwa, 'rock') and 牡蠣 (kaki, 'oyster'), referring to its habitat on rocky shores.