Matthew Caesar wrote:
> First off, I'm about 5'8, with size 10 feet, which are a...28 in Japan, I
> think.  I don't think I'll have trouble with clothing (32 waist), but will I
> have problems finding shoes (specifically winter boots)?

No problem with either.

> I'm also looking for a foreigner-friendly gym.  I'd like to work out while I'm
> over there, and it'd be nice to know of a good gym.  I have no experience with
> gyms, so if the group of people there are nice too and willing to help, that'd
> be awesome.

Hokudai itself has some very foreigner/student friendly facilities. Try 
those first.

> Thirdly, anyone have any restaurant/bar recommendations?  I'm a glutton, and I
> love good food.  I always hear about how good the food is in Hokkaido, and I
> can't wait to see if that's true or not.

There is plenty to choose from. Sapporo also has better tourism 
literature (including restaurant/bar info) than just about any city in 
Japan - Tokyo included. Probably because they need the tourists more. 
Ask any of the students and you'll quickly find the low down.

If its beer you like, try
http://www.ezo-beer.com/index-e.html (a bit pricey though, and the food 
ain't much).

Also, pick up a copy of Xene and other rags when you arrive.

-- 
"A large number of aliens have been applying themselves to studying in 
various areas inclusive of studying Japanese" - Masuda Nobuya, Director 
General, Immigration Bureau.