Sapporo

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Guesthouses and Hostels

Affordable shared accommodation options, popular among visitors and budget-conscious residents.

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Comprehensive Guide to Guesthouses and Hostels in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a vibrant city known for its snowy winters, delicious food (like miso ramen and fresh seafood), and cultural festivals such as the Sapporo Snow Festival. For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a more social experience, guesthouses and hostels are excellent accommodation options. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate your stay in Sapporo.

1. Overview of Guesthouses and Hostels in Sapporo

Guesthouses and hostels in Sapporo cater to a wide range of travelers, from solo backpackers to small groups. They are typically affordable, clean, and well-maintained, with a focus on fostering a sense of community. Many accommodations offer shared spaces for socializing, making them ideal for meeting fellow travelers.

  • Average Costs:
    • Dormitory beds: ยฅ2,500โ€“ยฅ4,500 per night
    • Private rooms: ยฅ4,500โ€“ยฅ8,000 per night
    • Capsule-style accommodations (common in Japan): ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per night

Prices may vary depending on the season, with higher rates during peak times like the Sapporo Snow Festival (early February) and summer months (Julyโ€“August).

2. Amenities Provided

Guesthouses and hostels in Sapporo typically offer the following amenities:

Basic Amenities:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Shared bathrooms (clean and well-maintained)
  • Shared kitchen facilities
  • Common lounge areas
  • Lockers for personal belongings
  • Laundry facilities (coin-operated)

Additional Amenities:

  • Free tea/coffee
  • Bicycle rentals (great for exploring Sapporo)
  • On-site bars or cafes
  • Luggage storage
  • Local travel advice and maps
  • Organized activities (e.g., group tours, cultural workshops)

Cultural Note:

Japanese guesthouses and hostels are known for their cleanliness and attention to detail. Guests are often required to remove their shoes upon entering, and slippers are provided. Be respectful of shared spaces by keeping noise to a minimum, especially at night.

3. Booking Procedures

Booking a guesthouse or hostel in Sapporo is straightforward. Here are the most common methods:

  • Online Booking Platforms:

    • Websites like Booking.com, Hostelworld, and Agoda are popular for finding accommodations in Sapporo. These platforms allow you to filter by price, location, and amenities.
    • Japanese platforms like Rakuten Travel and Jalan.net also list guesthouses and hostels.

  • Direct Booking:

    • Many guesthouses and hostels have their own websites where you can book directly. This may sometimes offer better rates or perks.

  • Walk-ins:

    • While walk-ins are possible, itโ€™s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons like winter and festival periods.

Tips for Booking:

  • Book early if youโ€™re visiting during the Sapporo Snow Festival or other major events.
  • Check reviews for cleanliness, staff friendliness, and location.
  • Confirm whether the accommodation has a curfew (some traditional guesthouses may have one).

4. Best Locations to Stay in Sapporo

When choosing a guesthouse or hostel, location is key. Here are the best areas to stay in Sapporo based on accessibility and nearby attractions:

Susukino:

  • Why Stay Here: Susukino is Sapporoโ€™s entertainment district, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Itโ€™s also close to the famous Ramen Alley (Ganso Ramen Yokocho).
  • Nearby Attractions: Susukino Ice Festival (during the Snow Festival), Tanukikoji Shopping Street.
  • Accessibility: Well-connected by the Sapporo Subway (Susukino Station).

Odori:

  • Why Stay Here: Odori is the heart of Sapporo and home to Odori Park, where the Sapporo Snow Festivalโ€™s main events are held. Itโ€™s a central location with easy access to other parts of the city.
  • Nearby Attractions: Sapporo TV Tower, Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower.
  • Accessibility: Odori Station connects to multiple subway lines.

Sapporo Station Area:

  • Why Stay Here: Staying near Sapporo Station is convenient for travelers arriving by train or bus. Itโ€™s a hub for transportation and shopping.
  • Nearby Attractions: JR Tower, Hokkaido University, Sapporo Beer Museum (a short bus ride away).
  • Accessibility: Direct access to JR trains, subway lines, and buses.

Nakajima Park Area:

  • Why Stay Here: A quieter area with beautiful green spaces, ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Nearby Attractions: Nakajima Park, Hลheikan (a historic building), Kitara Concert Hall.
  • Accessibility: Close to Nakajima Koen Station on the Namboku Line.

5. Recommended Guesthouses and Hostels

Here are some highly-rated guesthouses and hostels in Sapporo:

The Stay Sapporo

  • Location: Susukino
  • Features: Modern design, dorms and private rooms, large common area, free Wi-Fi.
  • Price: Dorms from ยฅ3,000, private rooms from ยฅ6,000.

Ten to Ten Sapporo Station

  • Location: Near Sapporo Station
  • Features: Stylish interiors, on-site cafรฉ/bar, social atmosphere.
  • Price: Dorms from ยฅ3,500, private rooms from ยฅ7,000.

Untapped Hostel

  • Location: Near Hokkaido University
  • Features: Cozy atmosphere, local art displays, excellent cafรฉ on-site.
  • Price: Dorms from ยฅ3,000, private rooms from ยฅ5,500.

Social Hostel 365

  • Location: Odori
  • Features: Friendly staff, communal kitchen, bar with craft beer.
  • Price: Dorms from ยฅ2,800, private rooms from ยฅ5,000.

Guest House Waya

  • Location: East Sapporo
  • Features: Community-focused, traditional Japanese-style rooms, cultural events.
  • Price: Dorms from ยฅ2,500, private rooms from ยฅ4,500.

6. Cultural Insights and Tips

  • Quiet Hours: Japanese culture values quietness and respect for others. Avoid loud conversations in shared spaces, especially late at night.
  • Shoes Off: Always remove your shoes when entering a guesthouse or hostel. Slippers are usually provided.
  • Bathing Etiquette: If the accommodation has a shared bath (sento or onsen), follow proper etiquette: wash yourself thoroughly before entering the communal bath.
  • Recycling: Japan has strict recycling rules. Pay attention to how trash is sorted in the hostel.
  • Language: While many staff members speak basic English, learning a few Japanese phrases (e.g., "arigatou" for thank you) is appreciated.

7. Final Tips for Staying in Sapporo

  • Seasonal Considerations: Winter in Sapporo is cold and snowy, so choose accommodations with good heating. In summer, look for places with air conditioning.
  • Transportation: Sapporoโ€™s subway system is efficient and easy to use. Staying near a subway station will make your trip more convenient.
  • Local Food: Many hostels organize food tours or provide recommendations for local eateries. Donโ€™t miss Sapporoโ€™s famous miso ramen, soup curry, and fresh seafood.

By choosing a guesthouse or hostel in Sapporo, youโ€™ll not only save money but also have the chance to connect with fellow travelers and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful city!