The New Year (Shogatsu / 正月) is one of Japan’s most cherished cultural traditions. Among the many customs that make this season special, Otoshidama (お年玉) — the practice of giving money to children — stands out as a highlight for many families and young visitors to Japan.
I’ll explain what otoshidama is, current average amounts by age, and useful gift ideas including Amazon envelopes and KLOOK kimono rentals for travelers!
🧧 What Is Otoshidama?
Otoshidama is the Japanese custom of gifting money to children during the New Year celebration.
Traditionally, money is placed in a special decorative envelope (pochibukuro / ポチ袋), and handed to children by parents, grandparents, or relatives.
Even in the age of digital payments like PayPay, most families still prefer to use cash in envelopes to preserve the tradition.
👉 Amazon recommendation:
💴 Average Otoshidama Amounts by Age
| Age Group | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baby – Preschool | ¥1,000–¥3,000 | Receive smaller amounts |
| Elementary School | ¥3,000–¥5,000 | |
| Middle School | ¥5,000–¥10,000 | |
| High School | ¥10,000+ | Older teens often receive the highest amounts |
| University / Adult | Often still given in family | Some families continue into university age |
📌 In our family, we use the following fixed amounts:
- Baby–Preschool: ¥1,000
- Elementary: ¥3,000
- Middle School: ¥5,000
- High School: ¥5,000
- University & above: ¥10,000
These amounts help make preparation easier and ensure fairness.
🏫 Celebration Gifts for School Entry
In addition to otoshidama, many families gift money for major milestones like entering kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school, or university.
📌 Typical Entrance Gift Amounts:
- Kindergarten Enrollment: ~¥5,000
- Elementary School Enrollment: ~¥10,000
- Middle School Enrollment: ~¥10,000
- High School & University Enrollment: ¥20,000–¥30,000
Cash in a special envelope adds a personal and meaningful touch, making the young person feel truly celebrated.
👉 Amazon recommendation:
🏦 Tips for New Year Preparation
With increased demand around the New Year, banks and ATMs with shin-satsu (fresh, crisp bills) tend to have long lines starting mid-December.
If you plan to give otoshidama in new bills, it’s best to prepare early.
💡 Many families still avoid digital payments for otoshidama and entrance gifts, preferring to use cash in beautifully designed envelopes to honor tradition.
✈️ A Tip for Travelers Visiting Japan During New Year
If you are traveling in Japan during the New Year season and have a chance to interact with Japanese families or children, it is a lovely idea to prepare a small otoshidama, even a modest amount.
Giving a few coins or a small bill in a pochibukuro is not expected, but it is often warmly appreciated and brings big smiles.
It shows respect for Japanese culture and creates a special moment of connection that many locals remember fondly.
You don’t need to give much — the gesture itself is what truly matters.
👘 Bonus for Travelers — Kimono Rental on Your Japan Trip
If you’re visiting Japan during the holiday period, wearing a kimono for New Year shrine visits or family photos is an unforgettable experience.
I love wearing Kimono with my daughter so much!
👉 KLOOK Recommendation:
Klook.com🎯 Conclusion
The practice of otoshidama reflects the warmth of Japanese family traditions, blending fun, culture, and thoughtful generosity. Whether you’re celebrating at home or traveling to Japan during the New Year, understanding these customs — and choosing the right envelopes or experiences — helps make those moments memorable!
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