Sapporo

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Short-Term Rentals

Temporary housing options like serviced apartments, Airbnb, and vacation rentals for visitors and short stays.

Sections

1. Types of Available Accommodations

Sapporo offers a variety of short-term rental options to suit different budgets and preferences:

  • Apartments (Serviced or Non-Serviced):

    • Fully furnished apartments are common for short-term stays. These often include basic amenities like a kitchen, washing machine, and Wi-Fi.
    • Serviced apartments may offer additional perks like cleaning services and concierge support.

  • Guesthouses and Hostels:

    • Budget-friendly options, often with shared facilities like kitchens and bathrooms.
    • Some guesthouses cater to international travelers and provide a social atmosphere.

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb-style):

    • Private homes, apartments, or rooms rented out by locals. These can range from modern apartments to traditional Japanese-style homes (machiya).
    • Many listings include amenities like futons, tatami mats, and small kitchens.

  • Hotels with Short-Term Stay Plans:

    • Some hotels in Sapporo offer weekly or monthly stay plans at discounted rates, especially during off-peak seasons.

  • Capsule Hotels:

    • A unique and affordable option for solo travelers. These are compact sleeping pods with shared facilities.

  • Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns):

    • For a cultural experience, you can stay in a ryokan, which often includes tatami flooring, futons, and traditional meals. However, these are typically more expensive and less common for short-term rentals.

2. Average Costs

The cost of short-term rentals in Sapporo varies depending on the type of accommodation, location, and season:

  • Apartments:

    • Small studio apartments: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ6,000 per night.
    • Larger apartments: ยฅ6,000โ€“ยฅ12,000 per night.
    • Monthly rates: ยฅ80,000โ€“ยฅ150,000.

  • Guesthouses/Hostels:

    • Dormitory beds: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ4,000 per night.
    • Private rooms: ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ7,000 per night.

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb):

    • Entire apartments or homes: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ15,000 per night, depending on size and location.

  • Capsule Hotels:

    • ยฅ2,500โ€“ยฅ4,500 per night.

  • Ryokan:

    • ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ30,000 per night, often including meals.

  • Hotels with Short-Term Stay Plans:

    • ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ10,000 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly stays.

3. Booking Platforms or Services

Several platforms and services are available for booking short-term rentals in Sapporo:

  • Airbnb:

    • Popular for vacation rentals and private apartments. Listings often include reviews and detailed descriptions.

  • Booking.com and Agoda:

    • Offer a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments with flexible booking options.

  • Rakuten Travel and Jalan.net:

    • Japanese platforms with a wide range of accommodations, including ryokan and hotels.

  • Monthly Apartment Rental Services:

    • Websites like LeoPalace21 and Monthly Mansion cater to short-term stays, offering furnished apartments with flexible contracts.

  • Hostelworld:

    • Ideal for budget travelers looking for hostels or guesthouses.

  • Local Real Estate Agencies:

    • Some agencies in Sapporo specialize in short-term rentals for foreigners. However, these may require Japanese language skills or assistance from a local.

4. Short-Term Rental Procedures

When renting short-term accommodations in Sapporo, follow these steps:

  1. Search and Compare:

    • Use the platforms mentioned above to compare options based on location, price, and amenities.

  2. Check Availability:

    • Sapporo is a popular tourist destination, especially during the Snow Festival (February) and summer months. Book early during peak seasons.

  3. Verify Details:

    • Confirm the amenities, house rules, and cancellation policies. For Airbnb, check if the host is licensed (see regulations below).

  4. Make a Reservation:

    • Most platforms require upfront payment or a deposit. Credit cards are widely accepted.

  5. Communicate with the Host:

    • If renting through Airbnb or similar platforms, confirm check-in procedures and ask any questions about the property.

  6. Check-In:

    • Follow the hostโ€™s instructions for check-in. Many properties use keyless entry systems or lockboxes.

5. Local Laws and Regulations

Japan has strict regulations for short-term rentals, known as minpaku. Hereโ€™s what you need to know:

  • Licensing:

    • Hosts must register their property with the local government and display a license number on their listing.
    • Unlicensed rentals are illegal, so always check for a license number when booking.

  • Stay Limits:

    • Minpaku properties are limited to 180 days of operation per year unless they meet specific exemptions (e.g., being in a special zone).

  • Noise and Behavior:

    • Japan has strict noise regulations. Avoid loud activities, especially at night, as many properties are in residential areas.

  • Trash Disposal:

    • Garbage disposal in Japan is highly regulated. Hosts should provide instructions on how to separate and dispose of trash.

  • Identification:

    • Hosts are required to collect identification (passport copy) from foreign guests.

6. Cultural Considerations

When staying in Sapporo, keep these cultural nuances in mind:

  • Shoes Off Indoors:

    • Always remove your shoes when entering a Japanese home or apartment. Slippers are often provided.

  • Quiet Hours:

    • Japanese neighborhoods are generally quiet, and noise complaints can lead to issues with neighbors or landlords.

  • Respect for Property:

    • Treat the rental property with care. Damages may result in additional charges.

  • Communication:

    • Many hosts may not speak fluent English. Use translation apps or simple language to communicate.

  • Tatami Care:

    • If staying in a property with tatami mats, avoid placing heavy furniture or wearing shoes on them.

7. Potential Issues to Keep in Mind

  • Language Barrier:

    • While many hosts on platforms like Airbnb speak some English, communication with local agencies or landlords may require Japanese.

  • Peak Season Pricing:

    • Prices can surge during festivals, holidays, and ski season. Book early to secure better rates.

  • Cancellation Policies:

    • Check the cancellation policy carefully, as some bookings may be non-refundable.

  • Hidden Fees:

    • Some rentals may charge additional cleaning fees or utility fees. Confirm these costs before booking.

  • Accessibility:

    • Not all properties are wheelchair-friendly or equipped with elevators. Check accessibility details if needed.

  • Transportation:

    • Sapporo has an excellent public transportation system, but some rentals may be far from subway stations or bus stops. Consider proximity to transport when booking.

8. Recommendations

  • For a budget-friendly stay, consider hostels or capsule hotels near Sapporo Station or Susukino.
  • For a local experience, look for Airbnb listings in quieter neighborhoods like Maruyama or Nakajima Park.
  • For longer stays, serviced apartments or monthly rental services are more cost-effective.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find and enjoy a short-term rental in Sapporo. Let me know if you need further assistance!