Practical Information: Sapporo

Communication Options

Staying connected in Sapporo presents several choices for travelers.

Connectivity Solutions

Tourist SIM cards (NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au)
ESIMs for immediate connectivity
Portable Pocket Wi-Fi rentals

Internet & Wi-Fi Access

Free Wi-Fi access in Sapporo is widespread across various locations.

Access Points

Hotels
Major train stations
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)

Language & Translation

Japanese is the official language. English proficiency varies, but translation tools assist communication.

Translation Resources

Google Translate (offline Japanese pack)
DeepL translation app
Rosetta Stone for basic phrases

Basic Japanese Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases demonstrates respect and creates warmer interactions.

Helpful Expressions

Hello: Konnichiwa
Thank you: Arigatou gozaimasu
Do you speak English?: Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?

Money & Banking

Banking Hours

Traditional bank branches: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (weekdays)
ATMs: Widely available 24/7 at convenience stores and post offices
Credit cards: Common in larger establishments
Cash: Preferred in smaller shops, carry a mix

Holiday Impact

New Year (Jan 1-3): Many closures
Golden Week (late April - early May): Very busy travel period
Obon (mid-August): Busy for domestic travel
National Holidays: Banks may close, attractions usually open

Travel Advisory

For flight disruptions, a service like Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Airport Services

Services at New Chitose Airport (CTS) and airport lounge access.

New Chitose Airport CTS

The main airport for Sapporo, connecting Hokkaido to domestic and international destinations.

Lounge Access

Enjoy comfortable airport lounges regardless of airline or ticket class with services like Priority Pass.

Connectivity Pickups

Tourist SIM cards and Pocket Wi-Fi devices are available for pickup directly at CTS upon arrival.

Public Transportation

Sapporo features an efficient public transport system, including subways, buses, and a streetcar.

Modes

Sapporo Subway (three lines)
City buses for wider coverage
Sapporo Streetcar (circular route)

Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available throughout Sapporo, specifically in popular areas and at train stations.

When to Use Taxis

Late-night travel
Heavy luggage
Group travel (cost-sharing)

Postal Services

Japan Post JP Post

Reliable and efficient service
Post offices are widely available
Purchase stamps at post offices or convenience stores

Sending Mail

Send postcards internationally
Ship packages overseas
Hotels may offer postal services or advice

Seamless Travel

Pre-planning communication and transportation details leads to a smoother journey.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Embracing local customs enriches your Sapporo experience.

General Conduct

Polite and respectful behavior is universally appreciated in Japan.

Guidelines

A slight bow functions as a greeting
Keep voices low in public
Remove shoes indoors (e.g., homes, some restaurants)

Dining Practices

Japanese dining etiquette has specific hints that visitors observe.

Table Manners

Tipping is not customary
Slurping noodles is acceptable
Avoid sticking chopsticks vertically in rice

Photography Etiquette

Be mindful of privacy and restrictions when taking photos.

Photography Pointers

Generally permitted in public spaces
Ask permission before photographing individuals
Look for "no photography" signs at sites

Taboos & Sensitivities

Cultural hints to keep in mind for smooth interactions.

Things to Avoid

Discussing controversial politics
Losing your temper or raising your voice
Eating or drinking while walking (except street food)

Religious Site Conduct

At Shrines & Temples

Purify hands and mouth at temizuya
Remove hats and sunglasses indoors
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior

Specific Actions

Shrine: Bow twice, clap twice, bow once
Temple: Offer coin, bow, press palms
Never walk on tatami mats with shoes

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

Japan is safe for solo female travelers
Walking alone at night is generally safe
Standard urban caution is always wise

LGBTQ+ Acceptance

Japan's acceptance is developing
Sapporo recognizes same-sex partnerships
Public displays of affection are uncommon for any couples

Communication with Locals

A friendly demeanor and a few Japanese phrases open doors to more memorable interactions.

Accessibility Information

Sapporo works to create an inclusive environment for all travelers.

Mobility Infrastructure

Efforts are ongoing to enhance Sapporo's infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs.

Transport Access

Most subway stations have elevators and accessible toilets
Some buses are low-floor or present ramps
JR trains are generally accessible with staff assistance

Accessible Attractions

Many of Sapporo's popular sites prioritize accessibility for visitors.

Inclusive Destinations

Sapporo TV Tower
Sapporo Beer Garden
Most museums feature wheelchair access

Visual Impairment Services

Assistance for visually impaired individuals is visible in public spaces.

Support Measures

Tactile paving (braille blocks) at stations and sidewalks
Audio cues for some public announcements
Station staff assist with boarding/disembarking

Hearing Impairment Services

While specific services may be limited, alternatives are available for hearing impaired travelers.

Communication Tools

Rely on written information
Utilize visual aids
Use translation apps

Accessibility Resources

Japan Accessible Tourism Center

A general resource for accessible travel throughout Japan.

Sapporo City Tourism Website

Offers some accessibility details for specific city locations.

Direct Contact

Contact individual attractions directly for specific needs.

Practical Information