Sapporo, Japan Destination Guide

Overview of Sapporo The most remarkable thing about the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido and its capital city Sapporo, is the contrast in temperatures between winter and summer. Sapporo, site of the 1972 Winter Olympics, is a favourite ski destination with temperatures plummeting well below freezing in December and January - the lowest ever recorded was in January 1945, when the mercury dropped to -11ºF (-24ºC). Summer, however, sees daytime highs of above 86ºF (30ºC), although evenings and mornings are cooler. Because of the thick snows that turns the city into a winter wonderland, Sapporo is favoured more as a winter sports destination than a spring or summer resort. There are ski slopes within the city limits and residents often enjoy a quick run after work. Sapporo is one of Japan's newest cities, having been constructed almost from scratch as the capital of Hokkaido in 1871. Japan imported foreign technicians (including 46 Americans) to aid in the development of the city, formerly a small settlement of the native Ainu people, which has now grown to accommodate about two million inhabitants. Despite a large population, Sapporo is not as crowded or densely packed as other Japanese cities. A national survey ranked it as one of the country's most desirable places to live, which is not surprising because its natural setting allows for easy access to mineral spas, mountain hikes, campsites, and superb ski runs. Tourists enjoy the outdoor delights of the region and experiencing the ancient culture of the local Ainu people.

Key Facts

Language: Japanese is the official language. Most Japanese people will have studied English at school, but few can speak it well or understand exactly what is said to them in English. Passport/Visa: All foreign passengers to Japan must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and stores, but most Japanese operate with cash. Money can be exchanged in banks, post offices and currency exchange bureaux. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm. The best foreign currency to take to exchange are US dollars. ATMs are common but do not accept all credit and debit cards; only the international ATMs in post offices, airports and some major stores will accept foreign cards. Electricity: Electrical current is 100 volts, 60Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima); 100 volts, 50Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo, Sapporo, Yokohoma). Flat two- and three-pin plugs are used.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Sapporo Climate for Sapporo Sapporo has a humid continental climate with precipitation throughout the year. Summers are warm and last from the middle of June to late September; average high temperatures usually don't exceed 79°F (26°C) and lows generally stay above 54°F (12°C). Winter lasts from the beginning of December to late March, with highs that are frequently below 32°F (0°C) and minimum temperatures that can be as low as 19°F (-7°C) at the peak of winter. Light rain is a common occurrence in summer, while winters are known for their heavy snow. Sapporo is one of the few cities in the world with more than 1 million residents that regularly receives annual snowfalls in excess of 16 feet (5m). Sapporo receives the most tourists in summer and winter, for its snow-related activities and festivals.

Health Notes when travelling to Japan No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Japan. Long-term travellers, staying for more than a month in rural areas, should consider getting a Japanese encephalitis vaccination if they are travelling between the months of June and September. Medical facilities are very good in Japan, but medical assistance can be very expensive and visitors have to pay the whole cost upfront. Travellers should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance before travelling. Vicks inhalers and other common medications used for allergies and sinus problems are banned under the strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law, and visitors are advised to check with the Japanese embassy if in doubt. It is always best to take prescribed medications with you when you travel, in the original packaging and with a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing what the medication is and why you need it. Safety Notes when travelling to Japan The vast majority of visits to Japan are trouble-free. It is generally a very safe country with low levels of common crime and is stable, highly developed, and modern. Travellers should, however, still be vigilant about personal safety and belongings. Typhoons are common, particularly from August to October, and travellers should take note of storm warnings along the coastal regions if travelling during this period. Japan is in a major earthquake zone, and earthquakes of varying sizes occur very frequently. Customs in Japan The Japanese are formal and reserved and visitors are expected to behave politely. Their system of etiquette is one of the most complex in the world, with a strict code of conduct for almost every situation. It is important to avoid causing 'loss of face' by insulting or criticising someone in front of others. Bowing is the customary greeting. Duty Free in Japan Travellers to Japan over 20 years do not have to pay duty on 3 bottles of alcoholic beverages; 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g tobacco; perfume up to 60ml; and gifts and souvenirs to the value of ¥200,000. Prohibited items include all types of firearms and ammunition, narcotics, pornography, meat products, counterfeit money, all plants and vegetables with soil, fresh fruit, vegetables and plants or parts thereof.

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Doing Business in Japan Business in Japan can be highly formal and greetings are usually rather ritualistic due to the hierarchical society; a third party introduction is useful. Central to doing business in Japan is the notion of kaizen, which represents the drive for constant improvement. Japanese business culture is very formal in dress code and conduct. Always greet in order of seniority, first by bowing and then offering a handshake. A polite bow is customary; the more senior the person, the deeper the bow. Expect silence in meetings and don't be surprised if a business associate goes silent and closes his eyes in a meeting - it indicates reflection. As with many Asian countries, it is important to avoid being too direct, while still illustrating sincerity and honesty. When deflecting difficult or embarrassing questions, vague forms of expression are key. Relationship building is central to business culture in Japan. Meetings often include excessive small talk as a means of building rapport. Calm, introverted and humble personality types garner respect. However, sober attitudes are suspended during social activities; evening drinks with business associates is an important part of solidifying business relationships in Japan, and whatever happens during the evening drinks, is never repeated or spoken about during business hours. Business cards are exchanged often, using both hands. It can be useful to have cards printed with both English and Japanese, and one should present the card with the Japanese side facing the recipient. English translators are vital when conducting business in Japan as Japanese tends to be the language of business. Office hours start at 8am and finish at 6pm throughout the week. Business wear is formal and gifts, although not expected, are appreciated. Small items branded with your company's logo are generally well received. Communication in Japan The international access code for Japan is +81. City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)3 for Tokyo and (0)82 for Hiroshima. Hotels, cafes, and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Tipping in Japan Tips and bargaining are not expected in Japan; in fact, tipping is usually considered almost rude and shouldn't be attempted. Passport/Visa Note All foreign passengers to Japan must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days (extension possible), for British passport holders endorsed British Citizen or British National (Overseas). British nationals with other endorsements should confirm requirements with their nearest embassy.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Note that visa exemptions apply to holders of an APEC Business Travel Card, provided the back of the card states that it is valid for travel to Japan.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days, with extensions possible.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Japan. Passport exemptions apply to holders of a temporary or emergency passport who are New Zealand nationals. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Note that visa exemptions apply to holders of an APEC Business Travel Card, provided the back of the card states that it is valid for travel to Japan.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival, and require a visa to enter Japan.

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Getting around in Sapporo, Japan Sapporo's streets follow a grid plan, making it fairly easy to navigate. The city has a comprehensive public transport system consisting of buses, a streetcar, trains, and several subway lines. The JR Hokkaido Bus Company operates local and intercity bus lines, connecting downtown Sapporo with popular attractions and neighbouring cities. Tickets can be bought from a dispenser at the front of the bus upon boarding. Multiple-use tickets can be bought at larger stations, such as the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. The Hokkaido Chuo Bus Company runs a sightseeing route that travels to several areas in Hokkaido. Reservations can be made telephonically or on the company's website. The city's streetcar line, known locally as the shiden, runs along the south of the city, close to Mount Moiwa. The Sapporo Station also functions as a hub for JR Hokkaido's railway network, which travels to the city's suburbs, neighbouring towns and cities on the island, and connects to the national network. Tickets can be reserved telephonically, purchased at station vending machines, or at the JR Reservation ticket counters in the station. The Sapporo Municipal Subway system operates out of central terminals at Sapporo Station and Odori Station. The system consists of three extensive lines and is easily accessible in most parts of the city. Tickets and multiple-ride passes can be purchased at station vending machines. Taxis are widely available but drivers are unlikely to speak English and travellers are advised to have their destination written down in Japanese.

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Attractions in Sapporo, Japan Sapporo is a clean, well-organised, and attractive city with plenty of parks and gardens, wide tree-lined streets, a number of good museums, and galleries. On top of this, there are enough shops, restaurants, and bars to keep everybody entertained. The main attraction of the city is Mount Moiwa and the mountain's ski slopes, which caters to all ski-enthusiasts with its 11 different courses right on the city's doorstep. Sapporo is a great holiday destination for families who are keen to enjoy a skiing holiday in Japan. For some insight into the fascinating Ainu culture and the region's history visit the outdoor museum in the Hokkaido Nopporo Forest Park, and the Hokkaido Ainu Centre a little way out of the city. For aprés ski relaxation and pampering take an excursion to the famous hot springs of Noboribetsu. Beer lovers should be sure to sample the delicious local brew, and enjoy the free tours offered by the Sapporo Beer Museum. The city offers many an opportunity for a scenic stroll and those looking for exercise and fresh air should explore Moerenuma Park, Odori Park, or even the pretty Hokkaido University Sapporo Campus. Getting around in the city is easy thanks to modern and extensive public transport systems.

Historical Village Situated in a corner of the Hokkaido Nopporo Forest Park in Sapporo, this impressive and entertaining outdoor museum village depicts Hokkaido life in days of old. The site features restored or recreated buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, and includes edifices like the old Sapporo railway station, old Otaru newspaper company buildings, fishermen's cottages, and mountain villas. Horse-drawn trolleys run through the village and in winter horse-drawn sleighs carry visitors around the site. The historical village should entertain the whole family for a few hours. Those particularly curious about the local culture and history of the area should not miss the Hokkaido Ainu Centre, which is a free attraction a little further out of Sapporo. The Ainu people, with their unique culture, have lived on the island of Hokkaido for hundreds of generations. The Ainu Centre details the history and culture of the island's indigenous people using interesting exhibits and demonstrations and makes the perfect companion attraction for the historical village. Address: Konopporo 50-1, Atsubetsu-chyo Website: www.kaitaku.or.jp/info/info.htm

Sapporo Beer Museum For beer lovers, a visit to the beer museum in the historic Sapporo Brewery building is a must, together with a tour of the brewery itself, which, of course, ends with a tasting. The red brick brewery building was opened first as a sugar factory in 1876, and has been the home of Japan's famous beer since 1887. One-hour tours are conducted at 15-minute intervals every day throughout the year; however, these are in Japanese only. It is possible to book in advance and request an English interpreter and the people at the front desk will happily provide an English leaflet detailing a brief history of Sapporo beer. Despite the fact that the exhibits are almost totally in Japanese it is still interesting to see the old photographs, memorabilia, and visual evolution of the brand. There are lockers at the entrance so you don't have to carry stuff around and there is a little gift shop for souvenirs. Address: 9-1-1 Kita 7-Jo Higashi, Higashi-ku, Sapporo 065-0007, Hokkaido Website: www.sapporobeer.jp

Mount Moiwa Fondly known as Sapporo's 'backyard ski resort', Mt Moiwa offers 10 different courses for all grades of skiers from beginners to advanced. There are fun family slopes and a children's play area as well as some more challenging options; advanced skiers may find it a bit too friendly but all levels are ultimately catered for. It is possible to rent all the equipment you might need. Most of the slopes are well lit to enable visitors and locals alike to enjoy the fun of night skiing, taking in the breathtaking view of the city as they fly down the sparkling slopes under the stars. There is an observatory on the mountain which can be reached by cable car, and even if you have no intention of skiing it is worth a trip up to this platform to enjoy the incredible views. There is also a restaurant, a souvenir shop and some tributes to lovers including a bunch of love locks (padlocks bearing the initials of couples and locked to signal eternal love). The best time to go up the ropeway is in the evening so that you can enjoy the daytime views of the slopes and city, and stay as darkness descends to see the city light up beneath you. The cableway may stop running in bad weather but is usually operational. Website: moiwa.sapporo-dc.co.jp

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Noboribetsu The famous hot-spring resort of Noboribetsu Onsen is situated inside the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The spa complex is one of many found in Hokkaido, but being closest to Sapporo is very popular. Hot mineral springs gush out about 10,000 tons of water a day, and it is said to have healing properties for a range of disorders. There are more than 30 hotels and bath houses grouped together along a narrow street along with shops, souvenir stores, and whatever else visitors may need. The area is also known for its cherry trees, which make a stunning sight in spring, and there are some worthwhile hiking trails in the park. If you're after luxury, you can find high-end accommodation and spa treatments that are seen as some of the best in the country but there are also cheaper options for those travelling on a budget. It is possible at some spots to bathe in the natural springs outdoors, which is the most atmospheric option. The springs are a popular excursion from Sapporo and the trip can easily be made in a day, which is all you need to enjoy the relaxing hot water.

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Nightlife in Sapporo, Japan

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Shopping in Sapporo, Japan

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Dining in Sapporo, Japan

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Airports in Sapporo

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Currency The currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and stores, but most Japanese operate with cash. Money can be exchanged in banks, post offices and currency exchange bureaux. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm. The best foreign currency to take to exchange are US dollars. ATMs are common but do not accept all credit and debit cards; only the international ATMs in post offices, airports and some major stores will accept foreign cards.

Exchange rate for 1 JPY - Japanese Yen 0.01 BMD 0.01 EUR 0.01 USD 0.01 GBP 0.01 CAD 0.01 CHF Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc 0.01 AUD 0.23 UAH 3.10 KZT 13.83 LBP 0.01 LYD 0.06 BOB Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 0.99 NPR 0.00 OMR 0.03 QAR 0.01 SGD 0.08 SEK 0.06 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 0.09 VEF 0.42 DOP 0.06 HRK 0.17 MXN 5.38 XOF 0.03 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 0.01 BSD 0.02 FJD 0.21 HNL 1.01 DZD 10.94 MMK 0.10 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 0.03 PEN 6.37 CLP 4.39 AMD 0.22 CZK 0.18 MDL 1.14 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 26.99 UZS 0.04 ILS 0.01 JOD 0.00 KWD 0.29 UYU 0.33 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 0.26 NIO 0.08 NOK 0.04 PLN 0.03 SAR 1.34 LKR 0.33 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 0.03 AED 0.03 BRL 0.04 RON 0.07 HKD 5.40 XAF 206.38 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 0.13 ARS 0.02 XCD 0.07 GTQ 0.09 MAD 0.00 BHD 0.01 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 0.01 AZN 28.63 COP 0.63 KGS 2.57 HUF 0.07 TJS 125.65 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 0.08 EGP 10.94 KRW 52.06 PYG 0.04 MYR 4.95 CRC 0.01 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 0.96 PKR 0.61 RUB 0.14 ZAR 0.02 TND 0.02 BBD 0.02 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 0.03 TRY 0.43 PHP 0.30 TWD 1.80 NGN 0.98 XPF 0.04 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 1.15 JMD 0.02 ANG 0.01 BND 1.02 RSD 0.06 CNY 182.72 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 0.06 DKK 0.03 TMT 0.62 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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Furano Overview

Furano is the most famous of all the ski resorts in Japan; however, it is still relatively undiscovered by foreign tourists. Furano is known for its light, powdery snow, of which up to 29 feet (9m) falls each year, and equally for its amazing weather, with more sunny days than any other resort on Hokkaido. The Furano Ski Area is divided into two areas: the Kitanomine zone, open from mid-December to late March; and the Furano zone open from late November to early May. Both areas have a range of accommodation, restaurants, and après ski options, all just minutes away from the town of Furano by shuttle. The town of Furano offers many cultural attractions, including ancient shrines and temples along with theatres, spas, shopping markets and locally-produced cheese, wine, and ice milk. Visitors should be sure to visit the town's many museums, cafes, and galleries.

Shopping in Furano

Furano is comprised of several small farming towns around a municipal centre. The region is known for its picturesque lavender fields and vineyards as well as for its powdery snow, and visitors can enjoy an array of locally-produced goods like wine, carrot juice, and cheese. There are a number of hotel shops and grocery stores selling this produce but the best place to go shopping for souvenirs in Furano is Ningle Terrace where you can find a charming collection of craft shops in small log huts. Here you will find local artists, glass makers, and jewellery crafters.

Dining in Furano

There is a wide variety of eating out options in Furano, with a few restaurants a short stumble from the slopes and many different restaurants in town. There are plenty of great sushi restaurants, many eateries selling simple international staples, French, Italian, and Chinese restaurants, and a number of pubs and karaoke bars to keep holidaymakers entertained.

Activities in Furano

Although there is not much of a clubbing scene, Furano has plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants which promise visitors a spot of night-time revelry. The Furano Tourism Association is very proactive and often organise a number of interesting cultural events, such as traditional Japanese music performances, which are usually free of charge and allow tourists to interact with locals and enjoy Japanese culture. There are also theatres and art galleries to be investigated.

Things to be aware of in Furano

There have been some complaints about groups of foreigners becoming too rowdy on the slopes.

Skiing in Furano

The slopes in the Furano Ski Area offer good skiing opportunities for all levels. The slopes are divided in to two zones: The Furano zone and the Kitanomine zone. There is a family ski area at the base of the Furano zone, and first timers are warned that there are no beginner courses from the top of the Kitanomine Gondola. The Furano Ski School is located at the base of the Kitanomine zone.

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