お年玉(としだま)

Etymology

Originally referred to rice cakes (餅(もち)) given to children at New Year, symbolizing the spirit of the year's deity. The custom evolved to giving money.

Cultural note

• Given in small decorative envelopes called ポチ袋(ぶくろ) or お年玉袋(としだまぶくろ)
• 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
• Rough amounts: 500–1,000円(えん) for a 幼児(ようじ) (toddler), 1,000–3,000円(えん) for a 小学生(しょうがくせい), 3,000–5,000円(えん) for a 中学生(ちゅうがくせい), 5,000–10,000円(えん) for a 高校生(こうこうせい)