Key Facts
• In 2026, average New Year’s cash gift budget drops to ¥24,039.
• Previous averages: ¥25,099 in 2024, ¥24,775 in 2025.
• Survey by Intage of 5,000 people aged 15–79.
• Budget by recipient age group:
| Age Group | Most Common Budget Range (¥) | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Under elementary | 1–1,000 | 43.7 |
| Lower elementary | 2,001–3,000 | 31.6 |
| Upper elementary | 4,001–5,000 | 39.5 |
| Middle school | 4,001–5,000 | 51.6 |
| High school | 9,001–10,000 | 51.3 |
• Over 90% still give cash in envelopes.
• Reasons for cash: conveys gratitude, stronger emotional impact.
• 38.5% of children now prefer cashless payments, up 8 points from last year.
• Cashless preference highest since 2023 survey.
• Cashless New Year’s gifts may soon become mainstream.
Summary
The traditional New Year’s custom of giving cash gifts to children is evolving. Despite a slight decrease in the average amount given in 2026, influenced by rising prices, the majority of parents still prefer handing over cash in envelopes, valuing its emotional significance. However, children’s preferences are shifting rapidly, with 38.5% now favoring cashless payments, marking a significant increase from previous years. The budget for gifts varies by the child’s school level, with amounts rising notably for high school students. This trend suggests that digital payment methods for New Year’s gifts could become the norm in the near future, reflecting broader societal shifts toward cashless transactions.
