The Vibrant Heart of Sapporo: Susukino

• Helloこんにちは
  [konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [hai]
• Noいいえ
  [iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [douzo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [arigatou gozaimasu]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [genki desu. anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せていただきたいです。
  [menyuu o misete itadakitai desu]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [niku wa tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [tasukete!]
• Go away!去って！
  [satte!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [michi ni mayotte imasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです...
  [kaitai desu...]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensive高すぎます
  [takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半
  [juuji han]
• Morning朝
  [asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [gogo]
• Evening夜
  [yoru]
• Yesterday昨日
  [kinou]
• Today今日
  [kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [ashita]
• 1一
  [ichi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [san]
• 4四
  [yon]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [roku]
• 7七
  [nana]
• 8八
  [hachi]
• 9九
  [kyuu]
• 10十
  [juu]

• Where's a/the...?どこに...がありますか？
  [doko ni... ga arimasu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [juusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で教えてもらえますか？
  [chizu de oshiete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の...はいつですか？
  [tsugi no... wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)切符(へ...)
  [kippu (e...)]

Susukino's history dates back to the late 19th century, when Sapporo was established as a city in 1868. Initially a rural area, it began to develop as the city expanded, becoming known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment district. The name 'Susukino' is derived from the Japanese word 'susuki', meaning pampas grass, which was abundant in the area.

In the early 20th century, Susukino transformed into a bustling entertainment hub. The establishment of izakayas, bars, and theaters attracted both locals and visitors. By the 1920s, it had become the largest red-light district in Hokkaido, featuring numerous geisha houses and entertainment venues that catered to a diverse clientele.

After World War II, Susukino experienced a boom in economic activity. The reconstruction efforts led to a surge in entertainment establishments, and the area became synonymous with nightlife in Sapporo. The iconic Susukino Fountain, built in 1958, became a landmark, symbolizing the district's vibrant atmosphere.

Susukino has played a vital role in shaping Sapporo's cultural identity. The area is known for its annual festivals, including the Sapporo Snow Festival, which features ice sculptures and attracts tourists from around the world. Additionally, Susukino is famous for its ramen shops, particularly the 'Ramen Yokocho' alley, showcasing Hokkaido's culinary heritage.

Today, Susukino continues to thrive as a center for nightlife and entertainment, blending traditional elements with modern influences. The district is home to a variety of establishments, from karaoke bars to high-end restaurants, reflecting Sapporo's diverse cultural landscape. As urban development progresses, Susukino remains a key destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the vibrant spirit of Sapporo.

Susukino is conveniently located in central Sapporo and can be easily reached from various neighborhoods. From Sapporo Station, take the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line directly to Susukino Station, which takes about 5 minutes. Alternatively, local buses also connect Susukino to other parts of the city, making it accessible from places like Odori and Maruyama.

Susukino is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore on foot. The subway system is efficient, with Susukino Station serving as a key hub on the Namboku Line. Bicycles can also be rented from various bike-sharing services around the area. Taxis are available and reasonably priced for those who prefer not to walk or use public transport.

Susukino is generally safe for tourists; however, caution is advised in certain areas, particularly late at night. While violent crime is rare, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots. Avoid alleys and poorly lit streets after dark, and be mindful of your belongings in bars and clubs.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance, 119 for fire and ambulance services. The nearest hospital is Sapporo Medical University Hospital, which is equipped for emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance for medical coverage. Familiarize yourself with the nearest police station and hospital locations upon arrival.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting traditional establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices, particularly in temples. Public Transport: Do keep quiet and give up your seat for the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting locals. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local ramen and consider sitting at the counter in izakayas. Don’t engage in loud conversations or show excessive affection in public.

To experience Susukino like a local, visit the bustling Ramen Alley for authentic noodle dishes. Try to explore the area in the evening, as the neon lights and nightlife bring a unique atmosphere. Engage with local bartenders or chefs for recommendations on hidden gems. Participating in seasonal festivals can also provide insight into local culture and traditions.