Sapporo

1. Bookstores in Sapporo

A. Japanese Literature and General Bookstores

1. Maruzen & Junkudo Sapporo

   • Overview: One of the largest bookstores in Sapporo, located in the Marui Imai department store. It offers a wide selection of Japanese literature, non-fiction, and foreign-language books.
   • What to Expect:
     • A vast collection of Japanese novels, including works by famous authors like Haruki Murakami and Natsume Soseki.
     • English-language books and travel guides for visitors.
     • Stationery and small gift items.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Japanese novels: ¥1,000–¥2,000.
     • English-language books: ¥1,500–¥3,000.
   • Tips: Staff may have limited English proficiency, so it’s helpful to know the title or author in Japanese. Look for the foreign-language section, often labeled as "洋書" (Yousho).

2. Kinokuniya Sapporo

   • Overview: A well-known chain bookstore with a branch in Sapporo. It’s a great place for Japanese literature, academic books, and manga.
   • What to Expect:
     • A mix of Japanese and international titles.
     • A dedicated manga section with popular series like "One Piece" and "Attack on Titan."
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Manga volumes: ¥400–¥600 each.
     • Hardcover books: ¥2,000–¥3,000.
   • Tips: Kinokuniya often has a membership program that offers discounts, but it’s primarily for residents.

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B. Manga and Anime Bookstores

1. Animate Sapporo

   • Overview: A paradise for manga, anime, and otaku culture enthusiasts. Animate is a nationwide chain specializing in manga, anime merchandise, and light novels.
   • What to Expect:
     • A massive selection of manga, including rare and limited-edition volumes.
     • Anime merchandise like figurines, posters, and keychains.
     • Light novels and art books.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Manga: ¥400–¥800 per volume.
     • Anime merchandise: ¥1,000–¥5,000 depending on the item.
   • Tips: Animate often has exclusive items and pre-order bonuses for new releases. Check their website or ask staff for details.

2. Mandarake Sapporo

   • Overview: A second-hand store specializing in manga, anime, and collectibles. Mandarake is a treasure trove for rare and vintage items.
   • What to Expect:
     • Pre-owned manga and anime goods in excellent condition.
     • Retro and hard-to-find manga series.
     • Cosplay costumes and accessories.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Second-hand manga: ¥200–¥500 per volume.
     • Collectibles: ¥1,000–¥10,000 depending on rarity.
   • Tips: Prices for rare items can be high, but the quality is usually excellent. Bargaining is not common in Japan, so prices are fixed.

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2. Specialty Shops in Sapporo

A. Unique Goods and Local Crafts

1. Sapporo Style Shop

   • Overview: A store dedicated to showcasing products made in Hokkaido, including crafts, accessories, and home goods.
   • What to Expect:
     • Locally made ceramics, textiles, and wooden crafts.
     • Unique souvenirs like Hokkaido-themed stationery and jewelry.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Handcrafted items: ¥1,000–¥5,000.
     • Souvenirs: ¥500–¥2,000.
   • Tips: This is a great place to find authentic, high-quality gifts. Many items are exclusive to Hokkaido.

2. Shiroi Koibito Park Gift Shop

   • Overview: Located at the famous Shiroi Koibito chocolate factory, this shop specializes in Hokkaido’s iconic white chocolate cookies and other sweets.
   • What to Expect:
     • Shiroi Koibito cookies in beautifully designed boxes.
     • Limited-edition sweets and chocolates.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Cookie boxes: ¥1,000–¥3,000.
     • Specialty chocolates: ¥500–¥2,000.
   • Tips: The shop is part of a larger attraction, so plan to spend some time exploring the park and factory.

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B. Stationery and Art Supplies

1. Loft Sapporo

   • Overview: A multi-level store offering a wide range of stationery, home goods, and lifestyle products.
   • What to Expect:
     • High-quality Japanese stationery, including pens, notebooks, and washi tape.
     • Art supplies and unique gift items.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Notebooks: ¥500–¥1,500.
     • Specialty pens: ¥300–¥1,000.
   • Tips: Loft is a great place to find unique and practical souvenirs. Look for seasonal items and limited-edition collaborations.

2. Tokyu Hands Sapporo

   • Overview: Another popular store for stationery, DIY supplies, and quirky gadgets.
   • What to Expect:
     • A wide selection of craft materials and tools.
     • Unique Japanese design items and souvenirs.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Craft supplies: ¥500–¥2,000.
     • Gadgets: ¥1,000–¥5,000.
   • Tips: Tokyu Hands often has hands-on workshops, so check their schedule if you’re interested in learning a new craft.

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3. Shopping and Payment Procedures

• Payment Methods:

  • Most stores accept cash (Japanese yen) and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB).
  • Some specialty shops and smaller stores may only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some yen with you.
  • Contactless payment systems like Suica, Pasmo, and PayPay are becoming more common.

• Tax-Free Shopping:

  • Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the "Tax-Free" sign and bring your passport to qualify.
  • The minimum purchase amount for tax-free eligibility is typically ¥5,000.

• Receipts and Packaging:

  • Japanese stores often provide beautifully wrapped items, especially for gifts. If you’re buying a gift, let the staff know by saying "プレゼント用です" (purezento you desu), meaning "It’s for a gift."

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4. Cultural and Local Considerations

• Browsing Etiquette:

  • It’s common to browse books and manga in stores, but avoid bending pages or damaging items.
  • Many bookstores have designated reading areas where you can preview books.

• Quiet Atmosphere:

  • Japanese bookstores and specialty shops are generally quiet and orderly. Keep your voice low and avoid making phone calls inside.

• Seasonal Items:

  • Many stores in Sapporo offer seasonal goods, especially during winter and festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival. Look for limited-edition items that reflect the season.

• Local Recommendations:

  • Ask staff for recommendations if you’re looking for something specific. They are usually very knowledgeable and happy to help.

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Sapporo’s bookstores and specialty shops offer a unique glimpse into Japanese culture and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a fan of literature, manga, or local crafts, you’re sure to find something special to take home. Enjoy your shopping adventure in Sapporo!