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Shopping and Dining

Introduction to shopping districts, local cuisine, and dining options across Sapporo.

Sections

Shopping in Sapporo

Sapporo is a shopperโ€™s paradise, offering everything from sprawling malls and department stores to quaint specialty shops and local markets. Hereโ€™s a breakdown of the shopping experience:

1. Major Shopping Areas and Malls

  • Sapporo Station Area:
    The area around Sapporo Station is a hub for shopping, with several large department stores and malls connected to the station.

    • JR Tower: A complex that includes Stellar Place, Daimaru Department Store, and Esta. Youโ€™ll find everything from high-end fashion to electronics and souvenirs.
    • Bic Camera: Located in Esta, this is a great spot for electronics, cameras, and gadgets.
    • Sapporo Underground Shopping Mall (Pole Town and Aurora Town): These underground malls connect major areas of the city and are perfect for shopping during the winter months. They feature a mix of boutiques, chain stores, and cafes.
  • Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade:
    This covered shopping street is one of the oldest in Sapporo, stretching for seven blocks. Itโ€™s a great place to find souvenirs, traditional Japanese goods, cosmetics, and even quirky items. The arcade also has a variety of restaurants and snack shops.

  • Susukino District:
    Known for its nightlife, Susukino also has a range of shops, including fashion boutiques and specialty stores. Itโ€™s a great area to explore after dinner.

  • Sapporo Factory:
    A unique shopping and entertainment complex housed in a former brewery. It features a mix of international and Japanese brands, a cinema, and a large atrium with cafes and restaurants.

  • Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima:
    Located about 30 minutes from central Sapporo, this outlet mall offers discounted prices on popular Japanese and international brands. A free shuttle bus is available from Sapporo Station.

2. Specialty Stores and Local Markets

  • Nijo Market:
    A must-visit for food lovers, this market specializes in fresh seafood, including Hokkaidoโ€™s famous crab, sea urchin, and salmon roe. Many stalls also offer ready-to-eat dishes, so you can sample the goods on the spot.

  • Sapporo Central Wholesale Market (Curb Market):
    Another excellent spot for fresh seafood and produce. Many shops here cater to tourists, offering vacuum-packed seafood for easy transport.

  • Maruyama Class:
    A smaller shopping center near Maruyama Park, featuring boutique stores and a more relaxed atmosphere.

  • Local Craft and Souvenir Shops:
    Look for stores selling Hokkaido-specific items like Shiroi Koibito cookies, Royce chocolates, lavender products, and Ainu crafts (traditional items made by the indigenous people of Hokkaido).

3. Tips for Shopping in Sapporo

  • Tax-Free Shopping:
    Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the โ€œTax-Freeโ€ sign and bring your passport to qualify for the discount (usually for purchases over 5,000 yen).

  • Seasonal Sales:
    Major sales occur in January (New Year sales) and July-August (summer sales). Look out for โ€œfukubukuroโ€ (lucky bags) during New Year sales, where you can buy a mystery bag of items at a discounted price.

  • Payment Methods:
    While credit cards are widely accepted in malls and department stores, smaller shops and markets may only accept cash. Itโ€™s a good idea to carry some yen with you.


Dining in Sapporo

Sapporo is renowned for its culinary scene, which highlights the fresh ingredients and unique flavors of Hokkaido. From hearty ramen to fresh seafood, hereโ€™s what you need to know about dining in Sapporo:

1. Must-Try Local Dishes

  • Sapporo Ramen:
    Sapporo is the birthplace of miso ramen, a rich and flavorful noodle soup. Popular ramen streets like Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho in Susukino offer a variety of ramen shops to choose from. Toppings often include corn, butter, and Hokkaido seafood.

  • Soup Curry:
    A Sapporo specialty, soup curry is a spicy, flavorful broth served with rice and a variety of vegetables and meats. Popular restaurants include Garaku and Suage+.

  • Genghis Khan (Jingisukan):
    A grilled lamb dish named after the Mongolian ruler. Itโ€™s a fun, interactive dining experience where you cook the meat yourself on a hotplate. Try it at Daruma in Susukino.

  • Seafood:
    Hokkaido is famous for its seafood, and Sapporo is the perfect place to enjoy it. Look for dishes like kaisendon (seafood rice bowls), grilled crab, and sashimi. Restaurants near Nijo Market and the Curb Market are excellent choices.

  • Hokkaido Dairy Products:
    Hokkaido is known for its high-quality dairy, so donโ€™t miss trying soft-serve ice cream, cheese, and butter. Many cafes and dessert shops in Sapporo feature these ingredients.

  • Ishikari Nabe:
    A traditional hot pot dish made with salmon, vegetables, and miso-based broth. Itโ€™s a comforting meal, especially in winter.

2. Dining Price Ranges

  • Budget (Under 1,000 yen):

    • Conveyor belt sushi (kaitenzushi) restaurants like Nemuro Hanamaru.
    • Casual ramen shops (around 800-1,000 yen per bowl).
    • Convenience stores (onigiri, bento boxes, and sandwiches).
  • Mid-Range (1,000-3,000 yen):

    • Soup curry restaurants.
    • Izakayas (Japanese pubs) offering small plates and drinks.
    • Seafood restaurants near Nijo Market.
  • High-End (3,000 yen and above):

    • Kaiseki (multi-course Japanese meals) at upscale restaurants.
    • Fine dining establishments featuring Hokkaido wagyu beef or premium seafood.

3. Tips for Dining in Sapporo

  • Reservations:
    Popular restaurants, especially those in Susukino, can get crowded. Make reservations in advance if possible.

  • Local Dining Etiquette:

    • Use chopsticks properly and avoid sticking them upright in rice (this is associated with funerals).
    • Slurping noodles is considered polite and shows appreciation for the food.
    • Many restaurants provide wet towels (oshibori) to clean your hands before eating.
  • Tipping:
    Tipping is not customary in Japan. Instead, express your gratitude by saying โ€œgochisosama deshitaโ€ (thank you for the meal) when leaving.

  • Seasonal Ingredients:
    Hokkaidoโ€™s cuisine is highly seasonal, so take advantage of dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients like asparagus in spring, melons in summer, and crab in winter.


Cultural Insights

  • Seasonal Festivals:
    If you visit during the Sapporo Snow Festival (February) or the Sapporo Autumn Fest (September), youโ€™ll find additional opportunities to enjoy local food and shop for unique items at festival stalls.

  • Language:
    While many shops and restaurants have English menus or staff who can speak basic English, learning a few Japanese phrases (like โ€œsumimasenโ€ for โ€œexcuse meโ€ or โ€œarigatouโ€ for โ€œthank youโ€) can go a long way in enhancing your experience.

  • Weather Considerations:
    Sapporoโ€™s winters are snowy and cold, so take advantage of the underground shopping malls to stay warm. In summer, outdoor markets and beer gardens are popular.


By exploring Sapporoโ€™s shopping and dining options, youโ€™ll gain a deeper appreciation for the cityโ€™s unique culture and flavors. Whether youโ€™re hunting for souvenirs or indulging in local delicacies, Sapporo offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.