Moving to Japan? The city of Sapporo is exciting. These 5 facts will tell you what you need to know before moving to Sapporo.
As a Westerner moving to the Japanese city of Sapporo, you might think you can play it by ear. Think again! As familiar as we may think we are with Japanese cultural exports, the reality of Sapporo can easily leave us feeling like overwhelmed strangers in a strange land. That said, it’s a fantastic city to live and work in.
If you’re moving from Canada to Japan, you might consider contacting Montreal Movers early in the process to see what you need to prepare for your relocation. Now, ease your transition by knowing a few facts in advance.
1. Few Locals Speak English
In some Japanese cities, you can easily get by in English, but most locals don’t speak English in Sapporo. Even if you learn a little Japanese before setting out, you will need help. Sapporo apartments information services can put you in touch with real estate agents with a sufficient grasp of English to help you find the right place to stay, and you’ll need your ex-pat community to show you the ropes.
Fortunately, you can join several online communities even before you set out, and other English speakers will be happy to share their knowledge and extend the hand of friendship. Taking the kids along? You’ll need to find a suitable International School. Once again, fellow ex-pats can help.
2. The Cost of Living Isn’t as High as in Tokyo
Although you might regret the lack of English speakers in some areas of your day-to-day life, Sapporo is a world-class city with a lower cost of living than Tokyo. It’s been calculated as being around 33% cheaper to live in Sapporo than it is to reside in Tokyo. Once you adjust to life in Sapporo, you’ll find that it’s an affluent city where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Susukino entertainment district in Sapporo. Photo by kuri2000 via iStock by Getty Images
3. You Won’t Need a Car
You may be relieved that you won’t need to buy or rent a car during your sojourn in Sapporo. The public transport system, including buses and trains, is extensive, and using it is relatively cheap and accessible once you know your way around it. However, if you want to travel and explore beyond the city limits, you may want to hire transport for the day. Getting an international driver’s license is relatively easy, but if you stay longer than a year, you must pass a Japanese driving test.
4. Be Prepared for Cold Winters
It can be bitterly cold in Sapporo during the winter. Locals make the most of it, turning the inevitable winter snows into a celebration with the world-renowned Sapporo Snow Festival and tons of facilities for enjoying winter sports. You should handle the winters easily if you’re from one of the colder parts of the US, but if you’re used to warmer climates, it will take a while to adapt.
Snow sculpture of Sultan Abdul Samad Building at Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan. Photo by mu_mu_ via iStock by Getty Images
5. Be Ready for Culinary Adventures
Sapporo is a foodie destination and the perfect city for exploring Japanese cuisine. If you’re not ready to take your tastebuds on a bit of adventure, you’re missing out! The city is known for its fine dining options and delicious street foods. But there’s more! During the autumn food festival, chefs and gourmets from around Japan and the world flock to Sapporo. So bypass the familiar fast-food stops and take the opportunity to educate your palate.
Enjoy authentic and local Japanese meals in Sapporo. Photo by kazuhide isoe via iStock by Getty Images
Moving to Sapporo
If you’re in Sapporo for any length of time and are open to learning Japanese as you go, you’re almost sure to find yourself feeling quite at home despite the initial culture shock. Prepare yourself as well as possible, tap into your ex-pat community, and be open to new experiences. Most of all, enjoy your time in Sapporo. Once you’re settled after moving to Sapporo, check out recommendations on Wander for more things to do in Japan and other parts of Asia.
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