Sapporo

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Local Currency

An overview of the Japanese yen, including denominations of coins and bills commonly in use.

Sections

1. Local Currency in Sapporo

  • Currency Name: The official currency of Japan, including Sapporo, is the Japanese Yen (JPY).
  • Currency Symbol: ยฅ
  • Denominations:
    • Coins: ยฅ1, ยฅ5, ยฅ10, ยฅ50, ยฅ100, ยฅ500
    • Banknotes: ยฅ1,000, ยฅ2,000 (rare), ยฅ5,000, ยฅ10,000
  • Exchange Rate: The exchange rate fluctuates, so check the current rate before your trip. As of late 2023, ยฅ1 is approximately 0.0067 USD or 0.0063 EUR, but this can vary.

2. Typical Costs for Everyday Items in Sapporo

Sapporo is generally more affordable than cities like Tokyo or Osaka, but prices can vary depending on the location and type of establishment. Hereโ€™s a breakdown of typical costs:

  • Food & Drink:
    • Bowl of ramen (Sapporo is famous for miso ramen): ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,200
    • Sushi meal: ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ3,000
    • Convenience store bento box: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ800
    • Coffee at a cafรฉ: ยฅ400โ€“ยฅ600
    • Beer (local Sapporo beer): ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ800 at a bar
  • Transportation:
    • Subway ride: ยฅ200โ€“ยฅ400 (depending on distance)
    • Taxi start fare: ยฅ670 (increases with distance/time)
    • 1-day subway pass: ยฅ830
  • Attractions:
    • Admission to Sapporo TV Tower: ยฅ720
    • Entry to the Sapporo Beer Museum: Free (tours with tasting: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,000)
  • Shopping:
    • Souvenirs (e.g., Shiroi Koibito cookies): ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000
    • Winter clothing (if needed): ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 for quality items

3. Where to Exchange Money in Sapporo

Itโ€™s best to exchange some money before arriving in Japan, but there are several options in Sapporo for currency exchange:

  • Banks:
    • Major banks like Hokkaido Bank and Japan Post Bank offer currency exchange services. Note that banks are typically open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays and are closed on weekends and public holidays.
  • Currency Exchange Counters:
    • Travelex: Located at New Chitose Airport and in central Sapporo.
    • World Currency Shop: Found in department stores like Daimaru or near major train stations.
  • Airports:
    • New Chitose Airport has several currency exchange counters, which are convenient for travelers arriving in Sapporo.
  • ATMs:
    • Many ATMs in Sapporo accept foreign cards and allow you to withdraw yen directly (see below for tips on using ATMs).

Tip: Exchange rates at airports and hotels may be less favorable than at banks or dedicated currency exchange shops.

4. Tips for Using ATMs in Sapporo

ATMs are widely available in Sapporo, but not all accept foreign cards. Hereโ€™s what you need to know:

  • ATMs That Accept Foreign Cards:
    • 7-Eleven ATMs: Found in 7-Eleven convenience stores, these are the most reliable for international cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, etc.).
    • Japan Post ATMs: Located in post offices, these also accept foreign cards.
    • Lawson ATMs: Found in Lawson convenience stores, they often accept international cards.
  • Languages: Most ATMs offer English and other language options.
  • Fees:
    • Your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee.
    • The ATM operator may charge a small fee (usually ยฅ100โ€“ยฅ200 per transaction).
  • Withdrawal Limits: Typically ยฅ50,000โ€“ยฅ100,000 per transaction, depending on the ATM and your bankโ€™s policies.
  • Tips:
    • Use ATMs during the day, as some may not operate 24/7.
    • Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being blocked.

5. Common Payment Methods in Sapporo

While Japan is traditionally a cash-based society, Sapporo is modernizing, and cashless payment options are becoming more common.

  • Cash:
    • Cash is still king in Japan, especially for small businesses, street vendors, and rural areas.
    • Always carry some cash, as smaller restaurants, markets, and older establishments may not accept cards.
  • Credit/Debit Cards:
    • Widely accepted at hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants.
    • Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are the most commonly accepted cards.
    • American Express and Discover may not be accepted everywhere.
  • IC Cards:
    • Prepaid transportation cards like Kitaca (used in Sapporo) or Suica can also be used for small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some shops.
  • Mobile Payments:
    • Services like PayPay, LINE Pay, and Rakuten Pay are popular among locals but may not be accessible to foreign visitors without a Japanese bank account.

6. Cultural Considerations and Local Practices

Understanding the cultural nuances around money in Japan can enhance your experience in Sapporo:

  • Cash Etiquette:
    • Always place cash on the small tray provided at the counter instead of handing it directly to the cashier.
    • When receiving change, use both hands to accept it as a sign of respect.
  • Tipping:
    • Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Exceptional service is expected as part of the culture.
    • If you feel compelled to show appreciation, consider giving a small gift instead of cash.
  • Clean Money:
    • Japanese people value clean and crisp banknotes. Avoid using wrinkled or torn bills, and expect to receive pristine notes in return.
  • Exact Change:
    • Try to use exact change when possible, especially for small purchases. Coins are widely used, so keep a coin purse handy.
  • Seasonal Considerations:
    • If visiting during the Sapporo Snow Festival (February), expect higher prices for accommodations and food due to the influx of tourists.

7. Additional Tips

  • Plan Ahead: While Sapporo is a modern city, some rural areas in Hokkaido may not have ATMs that accept foreign cards. Always carry enough cash for emergencies.
  • Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores in Sapporo offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to qualify for the 10% tax exemption on purchases over ยฅ5,000.
  • Emergency Funds: Keep a small reserve of USD, EUR, or another major currency in case you need to exchange money in an emergency.

By understanding the local currency and payment practices in Sapporo, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the city with ease. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful and welcoming destination!