The largest shopping mall in Sapporo, Tanuki Koji has a history that stretches back 123 years. There are more than 200 stores offering a variety of goods ranging from clothes and footwear to electrical items and furniture. The unique aspect of this mall is that you will find old and traditional merchants selling kimonos, tea or incense side-by-side with the modern stores specializing in computers and software or state-of-the-art electronics or digital cameras. There are also game centers, restaurants and coffee shops. Shopping here is fun, why not try it?
The Sapporo Factory is a multi-functional complex that opened in 1993. It occupies the site of the very first Sapporo brewery, which was built in 1876, so it is one of the oldest buildings in the city. It is a massive structure united by a central atrium, the largest in Japan, that is a great place to hang out or enjoy the events that frequently take place here. The Sapporo Factory houses a shopping mall, scores of restaurants, cinemas, a hotel, a sports club and even a natural thermal spa. There is something here for the whole family.
Nijo market has been in operation for almost 100 years, and it is still a thriving, vibrant feature of daily life for many of the city's citizens. Rows of shops offer a broad spectrum of Hokkaido special products including vegetables, noodles, dried seafood, cheeses, chocolates and fresh seafood like salmon, crab, sea urchin and scallops. The shopkeepers are friendly, prepared to bargain and, if asked, advise how best to cook the products. This market is not just about foodstuffs, though. You will find a wide selection of souvenirs.
A one-shop-stop for fashion and utility shopping, Space 1-15 treats you to seemingly unlimited options for an array of products. Peppered with a number of specialty stores, this is where you can find some of the best choices in fashion, electronics, eatables, and collectibles. Spread over five floors, it would take a whole day to cover every inch of this site, and it is well-worth your time and effort. The site also houses a number of cafes and restaurants where one can seek respite after a busy day of shopping.
This unusual shop specializes in Japanese footwear, with the emphasis on traditional. The selection on offer here is absolutely amazing. Although most visitors to Japan are unlikely to go home wearing geta (Japanese-style platform sandals that are usually worn with kimono), they could take some as souvenirs. As a concession to those who take a larger size, Gendaiya stocks sizes up to 30 centimeters for men and larger sizes for women, too.
A branch of the oldest department store chain in Japan, Mitsukoshi is everything one would expect, plus elegance and class. There are two basement levels and 10 floors above ground offering the very best array of branded goods, from gourmet foodstuff and alcohol through clothing, ceramics to diamond necklaces. There is even a department for wigs and other hairpieces and a space for events such as exhibitions or shows on the 10th floor. If the shopping tires you out, take a break in one of the restaurants or coffee shops that serve only items of the best quality.
Whether you are looking to revamp your wardrobe or you wish to stock up for the season, Coney Island is the place to be. A popular fashion destination for men, this place has an extensive selection of t-shirts, jackets and denims that help you put together a casual look. They also carry a variety of hoodies and sweatshirts to get you ready for the nippy weather. In addition to clothing, Coney Island is known for their collection of shoes that cover everything from converse to outdoor shoes. Accessories such as caps, wallets, belts and bags complete the store's inventory.
This unusual shop specializes in Japanese footwear, with the emphasis on traditional. The selection on offer here is absolutely amazing. Although most visitors to Japan are unlikely to go home wearing geta (Japanese-style platform sandals that are usually worn with kimono), they could take some as souvenirs. As a concession to those who take a larger size, Gendaiya stocks sizes up to 30 centimeters for men and larger sizes for women, too.
The largest shopping mall in Sapporo, Tanuki Koji has a history that stretches back 123 years. There are more than 200 stores offering a variety of goods ranging from clothes and footwear to electrical items and furniture. The unique aspect of this mall is that you will find old and traditional merchants selling kimonos, tea or incense side-by-side with the modern stores specializing in computers and software or state-of-the-art electronics or digital cameras. There are also game centers, restaurants and coffee shops. Shopping here is fun, why not try it?
Located in one of the more busy neighborhood's of the city, Gyokusuien is a great spot for a detox. The quaint tea room is a peaceful escape where aromas of freshly brewed tea and quieter conversations fill the ambiance. There are an impressive number of teas to sample of which the green teas come most recommended for those who to wish to cleanse their being. The staff is also available to provide details about the leaves you taste, and they also fill flasks on request at an additional amount. Their matcha-infused frozen treat is yet another unique proposition of Gyokusuien.
One the nation's best-known and most-loved chain stores, Tokyu Hands started out serving do-it-yourself enthusiasts. It now deals in goods for every single room in the house. Whether you are looking for finished items or the raw materials to make them yourself, as well as household goods and furniture, this store has it all. One floor is dedicated to hobbies, pets and outdoor activities, another floor handles office equipment, furniture and stationery. You will also find candles, incense sticks and burners and ceramics. To furnish a house or pick up a practical souvenir, try this store first.
Kinokuniya is the second largest outlet for foreign books in Sapporo. The English section here covers a wide range of subjects, including Japanese language textbooks, books on Japan, computers, business, history, philosophy and the arts. The store also stocks a reasonable selection of foreign magazines and newspapers. In addition to English titles, you will find in stock a smaller selection of French, Spanish and German books. There is a comprehensive collection of CDs, DVDs and videos, as well as a conveniently located ticket sales counter for event-goers.