Sapporo
Furnishing and Appliances
Sections
1. Furniture Stores in Sapporo
Sapporo offers a mix of large chain stores, boutique shops, and second-hand options for furniture. Here are some key options:
a. Large Furniture Chains
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Nitori (ใใใช): Often referred to as the "IKEA of Japan," Nitori is a popular and affordable option for furniture and home goods. They have a wide range of products, from beds and sofas to kitchenware and curtains. Nitori stores are located throughout Sapporo, and they also offer online shopping with delivery services.
- Location: Nitori Sapporo Main Store (Nishi-ku, Sapporo)
- Price Range: Affordable; a basic sofa starts at around ยฅ15,000โยฅ30,000, and beds range from ยฅ10,000โยฅ50,000.
- Website: Nitori Official Website
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IKEA (ใคใฑใข): While there is no IKEA in Sapporo, you can order online from IKEA Japan. Delivery fees to Hokkaido can be higher, so factor this into your budget.
b. Department Stores
- Aeon Mall: Aeon stores often have furniture sections with mid-range options. They also sell smaller household items like cushions, rugs, and storage solutions.
- Tokyu Hands: Located in central Sapporo, Tokyu Hands specializes in unique and stylish furniture, home decor, and DIY supplies. Itโs a great place for smaller, high-quality items.
c. Specialty and Boutique Stores
- ACTUS: A high-end furniture store offering modern, Scandinavian-inspired designs. Perfect for those looking for premium furniture.
- Location: Sapporo Station area
- Price Range: High-end; sofas start at ยฅ50,000 and up.
2. Appliance Shops in Sapporo
When it comes to appliances, Sapporo has several large electronics retailers and second-hand options.
a. Major Electronics Retailers
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Bic Camera (ใใใฏใซใกใฉ): A one-stop shop for all your appliance needs, including refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, and air conditioners. They also offer delivery and installation services.
- Location: Near Sapporo Station
- Price Range: Mid-range; refrigerators start at ยฅ30,000, washing machines at ยฅ20,000.
- Tip: Look for seasonal sales, especially during New Year and summer.
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Yodobashi Camera (ใจใใใทใซใกใฉ): Similar to Bic Camera, Yodobashi offers a wide range of appliances and electronics. They also have a loyalty point system that can save you money on future purchases.
- Location: Sapporo Station area
- Website: Yodobashi Official Website
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Kโs Denki (ใฑใผใบใใณใญ): Known for competitive pricing and good customer service. They often have discounts on older models of appliances.
- Location: Multiple locations in Sapporo
b. Second-Hand Appliance Shops
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Hard Off / Off House: These are part of the "Off" chain of second-hand stores. Hard Off specializes in electronics, while Off House focuses on furniture and home goods. You can find gently used refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves at a fraction of the cost of new items.
- Location: Various locations in Sapporo
- Price Range: Refrigerators from ยฅ10,000, washing machines from ยฅ8,000.
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Recycle Shops: Sapporo has many local recycle shops where you can find second-hand appliances. These shops are often family-run and may offer delivery services for larger items.
3. Rental Options for Furniture and Appliances
If youโre staying in Sapporo for a short period, renting furniture and appliances can be a cost-effective solution.
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CLAS (ใฏใฉใน): A furniture and appliance rental service available in Japan. They offer flexible rental plans for items like sofas, beds, and refrigerators. Delivery is available in Sapporo.
- Website: CLAS Official Website
- Cost: Monthly rental fees start at around ยฅ1,000โยฅ5,000 per item.
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Local Rental Shops: Some local businesses in Sapporo specialize in short-term rentals for expats and students. Check with your real estate agent or local community groups for recommendations.
4. Costs and Budgeting
Hereโs a rough breakdown of costs for furnishing and equipping a small apartment in Sapporo:
| Item | New (ยฅ) | Second-Hand (ยฅ) | |------------------------|-------------------|---------------------| | Bed (frame + mattress) | 20,000โ50,000 | 8,000โ20,000 | | Sofa | 15,000โ40,000 | 5,000โ15,000 | | Dining Table + Chairs | 15,000โ30,000 | 5,000โ15,000 | | Refrigerator | 30,000โ80,000 | 10,000โ30,000 | | Washing Machine | 20,000โ50,000 | 8,000โ20,000 | | Microwave | 5,000โ15,000 | 3,000โ8,000 | | Curtains | 3,000โ10,000 | 1,000โ5,000 |
5. Unique Local Considerations
a. Seasonal Needs
- Heating: Sapporo experiences harsh winters, so consider investing in a kerosene heater (ในใใผใ) or electric heater. These are widely available at electronics stores and second-hand shops.
- Humidifiers: Winters in Sapporo can be very dry, so a humidifier is a common household appliance.
- Insulation: Many apartments in Sapporo are well-insulated, but you may still want to invest in thick curtains or rugs to retain heat.
b. Delivery and Installation
- Most stores offer delivery services for large items, but there may be additional fees for delivery to upper floors if your building lacks an elevator.
- Installation services for appliances like washing machines and air conditioners are often available for an extra fee (around ยฅ5,000โยฅ10,000).
c. Recycling and Disposal
- Japan has strict rules for disposing of large items and appliances. If youโre replacing old appliances, stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi often offer recycling services for a fee. Alternatively, contact your local ward office (ๅบๅฝนๆ) for guidance on disposing of large items.
d. Cultural Practices
- Minimalism: Japanese homes often emphasize minimalism, so avoid over-furnishing your space. Multi-functional furniture is popular.
- Shoes Off: Remember to have a designated area for removing shoes at the entrance (genkan). You may want to purchase a shoe rack.
6. Tips for Saving Money
- Join Local Facebook Groups: Expat and community groups often have members selling or giving away furniture and appliances.
- Check Online Marketplaces: Websites like Mercari and Rakuten are great for finding second-hand items.
- Seasonal Sales: Look out for sales during New Year (January) and Obon (August) for significant discounts.
By following this guide, youโll be well-equipped to furnish your home in Sapporo efficiently and cost-effectively while adapting to local customs and seasonal needs. Let me know if you need further assistance!