Otoshidama
Japanese Name:
お年玉
Romaji Name:
otoshidama
Description
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Otoshidama is a traditional Japanese custom during the New Year, where children receive money in small decorated envelopes called pochibukuro from their parents, relatives, or close family friends. The amount usually depends on the child’s age and the giver’s relationship with the family. It is similar to the practice of giving “lucky money” during Lunar New Year in other Asian countries. Otoshidama is considered both a celebration of the New Year and a way to wish children good fortune for the year ahead.
History
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Otoshidama is usually translated in English as “New Year’s gift money” or simply “New Year’s money.”
In Japan, otoshidama is a traditional custom where adults give money to children during the New Year holiday. The money is placed in a special decorated envelope called a "pochibukuro" and is usually given by parents, grandparents, or other close relatives.
The amount of money depends on the child's age and the family’s customs. Children often look forward to receiving otoshidama as part of the New Year celebration.
The custom comes from old Japanese traditions of offering money or gifts to wish for good fortune in the coming year. Over time, it became focused on children, similar to how kids receive gifts during Christmas in Western cultures.