1.
New Year's money gift
money given to children by adults during the New Year holiday period
お年玉をもらう。
To receive New Year's money.
姪っ子にお年玉を渡した。
I gave New Year's money to my niece.
お年玉は専用の袋に入れて渡すのがマナーだ。
It's proper etiquette to give New Year's money in a special envelope.
ETYMOLOGY:
Originally referred to rice cakes (餅) given to children at New Year, symbolizing the spirit of the year's deity. The custom evolved to giving money.
CULTURE:
- Given in small decorative envelopes called ポチ袋 or お年玉袋
- Typically given to children and young relatives
- Amount varies by the child's age and relationship
- Usually given during the first few days of January
TYPICAL AMOUNTS (approximate):
- 幼児 (toddler): 500-1,000円
- 小学生: 1,000-3,000円
- 中学生: 3,000-5,000円
- 高校生: 5,000-10,000円