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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Sapporo
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The Essential Guide to Sapporo

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
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Summary: Living it Up in Sapporo: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Sapporo! If you're planning to move to Sapporo, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Sapporo has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Sapporo.

Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of attractions and sites of interest. One of the most iconic landmarks in Sapporo is the Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of the city's history and culture. The tower was built in 1878 and now houses a small museum showcasing the history of Sapporo and the development of the clock tower itself.

Odori Park is another must-visit location in Sapporo, stretching 1.5 kilometers across the city center. The park is home to numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of visitors every February. The park also features beautiful gardens, fountains, and sculptures, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

For those interested in history and culture, the Hokkaido Museum offers a comprehensive look at the region's history, from its indigenous Ainu people to the modern development of Hokkaido. The nearby Historical Village of Hokkaido is an open-air museum showcasing the architectural styles and daily life of the Meiji and Taisho periods, with over 50 buildings to explore.

Beer enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum, where they can learn about the history of beer in Japan and sample various brews at the museum's tasting room. The adjacent Sapporo Beer Garden offers a unique dining experience, featuring all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan, a local specialty of grilled mutton and vegetables.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Sapporo TV Tower, which features an observation deck at 90 meters above ground. The tower is particularly popular during the Sapporo Snow Festival, as it offers a bird's-eye view of the snow sculptures and festivities in Odori Park.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Sapporo is diverse and vibrant, offering a wide range of dining options and entertainment venues. One of the most popular areas for dining and nightlife is Susukino, a bustling entertainment district filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs. Here, you can find the famous Ramen Yokocho, a narrow alley lined with ramen shops serving Sapporo's signature miso ramen.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Sapporo Kani Honke, a renowned crab restaurant offering a variety of crab dishes, including crab sashimi, crab hot pot, and grilled crab. Another popular restaurant is Soup Curry Garaku, which specializes in Sapporo's unique soup curry, a flavorful and spicy dish with various toppings such as chicken, vegetables, and seafood.

For a taste of Sapporo's nightlife, visit King Xmhu, a popular bar with a wide selection of cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as live music and DJ performances. Another popular spot is Bar Yamamura, a cozy and intimate bar offering a variety of Japanese whiskies and expertly crafted cocktails.

Recreational activities in Sapporo cater to a wide range of interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. In the winter months, skiing and snowboarding are popular activities, with several ski resorts located near the city, such as Sapporo Teine, Sapporo Kokusai, and Kiroro Resort. These resorts offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels, as well as equipment rental and lessons for beginners.

For those who prefer indoor activities, the Sapporo Art Park is a unique cultural destination featuring art museums, galleries, and outdoor sculptures. The park also offers various workshops, such as pottery and glassblowing, allowing visitors to create their own art pieces.

Another popular recreational activity in Sapporo is visiting the city's numerous onsens, or hot springs. Hoheikyo Onsen, located in the Jozankei area, is a popular choice for its natural outdoor baths surrounded by beautiful scenery. Jozankei Onsen is another popular hot spring resort, offering a variety of baths and spa facilities, as well as nearby hiking trails and outdoor activities.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Sapporo: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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