Sapporo is a great city to explore and if you don't want to spend all your money on accommodation then consider staying at The Stay Sapporo, one's of Sapporo's newest Hostels. The Stay opened in mid-2015 and is built in a converted office building, which they have done a great job converting to a hostel.
The Stay offers a range of different dorm and private rooms to suit the budget traveler. Dorm rooms fit 7-8 people and are well kitted out with a reading light and power ports for each individual bed. Some rooms are also fitted with privacy curtains which is always an added bonus. Private rooms are available in Doubles or 3-6 people bunk style rooms. The Doubles are not suitable for claustrophobic couples though as the rooms are just big enough for the bed and a little bit of room left over to fit your bags behind the door. The room was well heated in winter and was fine for our needs, as you are in Sapporo to explore--not sit in your room. The hostel is spread over 10 floors and with only around 4 guest rooms per floor, it doesn't get noisy as some hostels can. Each floor has toilets and showers so you don't usually have to wait too long (if at all) to use them. And like many Japanese accommodations, shampoo, conditioner, and body soap is provided which is always a handy extra when traveling.
Common rooms are found on two different floors, so there is no shortage of space to relax in the hostel. The 3rd floor has a larger common area including a kitchen, dining area, and lounge area. This is also where you will find the reception desk to check-in, and the elevator always stops on this floor as a security precaution. The 10th floor has another smaller common area with a kitchen, dining room, and a tatami mat area if you want the traditional Japanese dining experience. You will also find a bath up here that you can use in the evenings for a small extra charge as well as laundry machines. Wi-Fi is available for free throughout the building to stay connected.
One of the best things about staying at The Stay Sapporo is that you are just a 5-10 minute walk from Susukino which is Sapporo's entertainment district and has no shortage of bars, restaurants, shops, and other adult entertainment options. Convenience stores are also found close by and there is a cafe/bar on the ground floor of the hostel that has reasonably priced food as well.
Many of Sapporo's other attractions including Odori Park, Old Hokkaido Government Building, and the Sapporo Clock Tower are all within walking distance and anything further afield you can access easily with the public transport around the hostel including the subway line which has a stop in Susukino.
The Stay Sapporo is a great option for any travelers on a budget that want to be close to everything that Susukino has to offer without being right in the middle of it.