Moving to Sapporo, Japan

"Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its beautiful landscapes, winter sports, and delicious food, but there are several things expats should know before moving there. Firstly, the climate in Sapporo is quite different from the rest of Japan, with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Snowfall is heavy, and the city is well-equipped to handle it, but newcomers may need time to adjust. Japanese is the primary language spoken in Sapporo, and while some people may speak English, it's beneficial to learn some basic Japanese phrases. The cost of living in Sapporo is lower than in cities like Tokyo or Osaka, but it's still higher than in many Western countries. Public transportation is efficient and reliable, with an extensive subway system and many buses, but most locals prefer to cycle or walk. Sapporo is a safe city with a low crime rate, but it's still important to take basic safety precautions, especially at night. The city is famous for its food, especially seafood and ramen, and trying local cuisine is a must. Healthcare in Sapporo is of a high standard, but it can be expensive, so it's important to have health insurance. The work culture in Japan is very different from the West, with long hours and a strong emphasis on loyalty and dedication to the company. Finally, it's important to respect Japanese customs and traditions, as the culture is deeply rooted in respect and politeness," remarked one expat in Sapporo, Japan.

"Finding a place to live in Sapporo, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a private house. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Sapporo to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Chuo-ku, known for its parks and museums, and Kita-ku, home to Hokkaido University. Once you have an idea of where you'd like to live, you can start searching for available properties. Websites like Suumo, Homes, and Athome are popular for house hunting in Japan, and they have English versions. You can also use real estate agencies such as Century 21 or Minimini, which cater to foreigners and can help you navigate the Japanese rental market. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. Keep in mind that in Japan, it's common to pay a deposit (usually equivalent to one or two months' rent) and a non-refundable "key money" fee to the landlord. Finally, once you've found your ideal home and agreed on the terms with the landlord, you'll sign a lease. This is usually for a period of two years in Japan. Make sure to read the contract carefully and ask any questions you may have before signing. Remember, finding a place to live in a new city can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move," remarked one expat in Sapporo, Japan.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Sapporo, is often a modern, compact space that is designed with efficiency in mind. The living area is usually combined with the dining area, and the kitchen is often small but well-equipped. The apartment may have one or two bedrooms, with storage space ingeniously built into the walls or under the floors. The bathroom is typically a wet room, with a deep soaking tub and a separate area for showering. The toilet is usually in a separate room, often with high-tech features like heated seats and bidet functions. The apartment may also have a small balcony, which can be used for drying clothes or growing plants. The interior design tends to be minimalist, with clean lines and neutral colors. The building itself is likely to be well-maintained, with a secure entrance and possibly a doorman. Some buildings also have communal facilities like a gym or a rooftop terrace. Despite the compact size of the apartments, they are designed to be comfortable and functional, with modern appliances and high-speed internet. The location of the apartment is also important. Many expats choose to live in central areas of Sapporo, close to shops, restaurants, and public transportation. However, some may prefer to live in quieter residential neighborhoods, which often have parks and other green spaces nearby. In terms of furnishings, some apartments come fully furnished, while others are unfurnished or partially furnished. It's also common for apartments to come with appliances like a fridge, washing machine, and air conditioning units. Overall, living in an apartment in Sapporo offers a blend of modern convenience and traditional Japanese design elements," said one expat who made the move to Sapporo.

"The average cost of housing in Sapporo can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a single-bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent is typically around 50,000 to 80,000 Japanese Yen. If you're looking outside of the city center, the rent for a similar apartment can drop to around 30,000 to 50,000 Yen. If you're interested in buying property, the average price per square meter in the city center is approximately 500,000 Yen, while outside of the city center it's around 300,000 Yen. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the current real estate market," remarked one expat who made the move to Sapporo.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Sapporo, depends on several factors, including your financial situation, long-term plans, and personal preferences. If you plan to stay in Sapporo for an extended period and have the financial means, buying a home may be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity, customize your living space, and potentially benefit from the appreciation of property values over time. Additionally, mortgage interest rates in Japan are relatively low, which could make buying a home more affordable. On the other hand, renting a home in Sapporo offers more flexibility and fewer responsibilities. If you are unsure about your long-term plans or prefer not to commit to a large financial investment, renting may be the better option. Renting allows you to easily relocate if needed and frees you from the responsibilities of property maintenance and taxes. Additionally, the rental market in Sapporo offers a wide range of options, making it easier to find a home that suits your needs and budget. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Sapporo depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. It is essential to carefully consider your financial situation, long-term plans, and the local real estate market before making a decision," said one expat in Sapporo.

"When moving to Sapporo, it's important to pack a variety of clothing to accommodate for the city's four distinct seasons. In the winter, Sapporo can be quite cold, so pack warm clothing such as thermal underwear, sweaters, a heavy coat, gloves, scarves, and hats. Waterproof boots are also a must for the snowy season. For the summer, pack lightweight clothing, but also include a few sweaters or light jackets for cooler evenings. Rain gear, such as a waterproof jacket and umbrella, is also necessary as Sapporo can be quite rainy, especially during the summer months. In terms of toiletries, while you can find most items in Japan, if you have specific brands you prefer, it may be a good idea to bring them with you. If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, bring an extra pair and a copy of your prescription. Pack a power adapter for your electronics, as Japan uses a different plug type and voltage than many other countries. Bring any necessary medication, along with a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining your need for the medication. It's also a good idea to pack some comfort items, such as favorite snacks, books, or photos, to help make your new place feel more like home. Lastly, don't forget important documents such as your passport, visa, driver's license, and any necessary insurance cards," said one expat who made the move to Sapporo.

"In Sapporo, it's considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public. It's best to consume food and beverages at the place where you bought them or at home. Avoid tipping in restaurants, taxis, or hotels as it's not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting. When using chopsticks, never stick them vertically into your food, especially rice, as this is a practice associated with funerals. Avoid blowing your nose in public as it's considered impolite. If you need to, excuse yourself and go to a restroom. It's considered rude to point at people or things with your finger. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. Avoid speaking loudly in public places, especially on public transportation, as it's seen as disrespectful. When entering a traditional Japanese home or certain restaurants and tea rooms, you should remove your shoes. Avoid interrupting people while they are speaking. It's considered polite to wait for your turn to speak. In Japan, it's customary to bow when greeting someone. The deeper the bow, the more respect is shown. Avoid making physical contact, such as hugging or patting on the back, as it's not common in Japanese culture. It's considered impolite to refuse a drink from a host or to leave food on your plate. Try to consume what is offered to you. When giving or receiving something, use both hands as it's seen as respectful," explained one expat living in Sapporo, Japan.