Global Major Cities Guide

Large shopping centers that house a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, commonly found in Sapporo.

Sections

Popular Shopping Malls in Sapporo

Sapporo Stellar Place
- Overview: Located directly above Sapporo Station, Stellar Place is a modern shopping complex that caters to a wide range of shoppers. It is part of the JR Tower complex, which also includes Daimaru and other shopping areas.
- Categories of Stores: Fashion (Uniqlo, Zara, high-end Japanese brands), cosmetics (Shiseido, SK-II), electronics, and lifestyle goods.
- Dining Options: Stellar Dining on the 6th floor offers a variety of restaurants, including Japanese, Italian, and dessert cafes. Don’t miss the Hokkaido specialty dishes like soup curry and seafood.
- Entertainment: A cinema complex is available for movie lovers.
- Transportation: Directly connected to Sapporo Station, making it extremely accessible.
- Typical Costs: Mid-range to high-end. Expect to spend ¥3,000–¥10,000 for clothing and ¥1,000–¥3,000 per meal.
Sapporo Factory
- Overview: A unique shopping and entertainment complex built on the site of a former beer brewery. It features a glass atrium and a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Categories of Stores: Fashion, outdoor gear (The North Face, Montbell), home goods, and specialty Hokkaido products.
- Dining Options: A variety of cafes and restaurants, including those serving Hokkaido’s famous dairy products and seafood.
- Entertainment: A cinema, an indoor garden, and seasonal events like Christmas markets.
- Transportation: A 10-minute walk from Odori Station or a short bus ride from Sapporo Station.
- Typical Costs: Mid-range. Outdoor gear can range from ¥5,000–¥20,000, while meals are around ¥1,000–¥2,500.
Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade
- Overview: While not a mall in the traditional sense, this covered shopping street is a must-visit. It stretches for seven blocks and offers a mix of modern and traditional stores.
- Categories of Stores: Souvenirs, cosmetics, clothing, and local snacks. Popular stores include Don Quijote (discount store) and 100-yen shops.
- Dining Options: Numerous izakayas (Japanese pubs), ramen shops, and cafes.
- Entertainment: Street performances and seasonal events.
- Transportation: Located near Susukino Station and Odori Station.
- Typical Costs: Budget-friendly. Souvenirs range from ¥500–¥3,000, and meals are around ¥800–¥2,000.
Ario Sapporo
- Overview: A family-friendly shopping mall located near the Sapporo Beer Museum. It features a wide range of stores and entertainment options.
- Categories of Stores: Fashion, home goods, electronics, and a large Ito-Yokado supermarket.
- Dining Options: A food court with affordable options and sit-down restaurants offering Japanese and international cuisine.
- Entertainment: A cinema and a kids’ play area.
- Transportation: A 15-minute walk from Higashi-Kuyakusho-Mae Station or accessible by bus.
- Typical Costs: Budget to mid-range. Clothing starts at ¥2,000, and meals are around ¥1,000–¥2,000.
Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima
- Overview: Located just outside Sapporo, this outlet mall is perfect for bargain hunters looking for brand-name goods at discounted prices.
- Categories of Stores: International and Japanese brands (Nike, Adidas, Coach, Beams, etc.), sportswear, and home goods.
- Dining Options: A food court with a variety of cuisines, including Hokkaido specialties.
- Entertainment: Occasional live performances and seasonal events.
- Transportation: A 30-minute bus ride from Sapporo Station.
- Typical Costs: Discounted prices, with items ranging from ¥3,000–¥20,000 depending on the brand.

Cultural Tips for Shopping in Sapporo

Tax-Free Shopping:
- Many stores in Sapporo offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the "Tax-Free" sign and bring your passport to qualify for the 10% tax exemption on purchases over ¥5,000.
Politeness and Etiquette:
- Japanese store staff are extremely polite and attentive. It’s customary to bow slightly when greeted or when leaving a store.
- Avoid touching items unless it’s clear that you’re allowed to do so.
Payment Methods:
- Credit cards are widely accepted in malls, but smaller shops and arcades like Tanukikoji may prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry some yen with you.
Shopping Bags:
- Japan has a strong focus on reducing plastic waste. Many stores charge a small fee for shopping bags, so consider bringing a reusable bag.
Seasonal Sales:
- Major sales occur in January (New Year sales) and July/August (summer sales). Look out for "fukubukuro" (lucky bags) during New Year, which offer great value.
Trying On Clothes:
- When trying on clothes, you’ll often be asked to remove your shoes before entering the fitting room. Some stores also provide face covers to avoid staining clothes with makeup.

Special Considerations for Visiting Sapporo Malls

Weather Preparedness:
- Sapporo experiences heavy snowfall in winter, so dress warmly and wear non-slip shoes when traveling between malls.
Local Products:
- Don’t miss out on Hokkaido’s famous products, such as dairy goods, seafood, and sweets. Many malls have specialty stores dedicated to these items.
Language Barrier:
- While many stores have English-speaking staff or signage, it’s helpful to know basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app.
Crowds:
- Weekends and holidays can be crowded, especially in popular malls like Stellar Place. Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Transportation Tips:
- Sapporo’s subway system is efficient and connects most major shopping areas. Consider purchasing a prepaid IC card (like Kitaca) for convenient travel.

Conclusion

Sapporo’s shopping malls offer a mix of modern convenience, local culture, and entertainment, making them a must-visit for both tourists and residents. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, local souvenirs, or a fun day out with family, there’s something for everyone. By following the tips and recommendations above, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Sapporo’s shopping scene and make the most of your visit.