Japan Post Co. announced the results of the 2025 New Year's lottery on January 20, 2025, during a ceremonial event attended by celebrities including actor Taishi Nakagawa, comedian Junior Chihara, and actress Moyuki Honda, all dressed traditionally. The lottery, tied to the custom of sending New Year greeting cards known as Nengajo, is a long-standing tradition dating back to 1950 and has become synonymous with the holiday for many Japanese families.
The total number of New Year's cards issued this year was 1,068 million, marking a staggering decline of 74.8% compared to the previous year. Despite this drop, the lottery prizes maintain their allure and tradition. According to Japan Post representatives, "The total number of New Year's cards issued has been decreasing, but the chance of winning remains constant."
For the 2025 lottery, the first prize consists of three options: 300,000 yen in cash, 310,000 yen worth of electronic money gift vouchers, or a special collector's set of unique stamps from 2024 along with 200,000 yen. Notably, this year also introduced exclusive tickets to the upcoming Osaka Kansai Expo, available to 240 lucky winners from the lottery.
The second prize, dubbed the "hometown delivery package," is well-liked and features regional specialty products. The third prize offers the New Year's Gift Stamp Sheet, themed around auspicious motifs, ensuring it appeals to collectors and families alike.
While the excitement surrounding the lottery remained, the rise of digital communications, such as email and social media, has considerably diminished the number of physical New Year greetings exchanged. From 4.9 million greeting cards sent out last year, estimates for 2025 predict only about one million due to recent increases in postal rates as well, which recently climbed from 63 yen to 85 yen per card, encouraging younger generations to opt for electronic greetings instead.
The lottery draw took place at Japan Post headquarters. Participants dressed ceremonially added to the event's festive atmosphere. Nakagawa, speaking at the event, expressed enthusiasm, saying, "We are excited to participate in this traditional event," emphasizing the significance of retaining such culturally rich customs.
Even with the changing times, Japan Post maintains the same odds for winning. The first prize remains set at one winning ticket for every million issued, the second prize at one for every 10,000, and the third at one for every 100, with totals confirmed from last year. This consistency offers players and families hope, regardless of the decreasing number of cards.
The prize redemption period for winners runs from January 21 until July 22, 2025. Winners must bring their winning tickets to post offices within this timeframe, equipped with personal identification for the larger cash prizes. Instructions for redeeming prizes are outlined clearly on the Japan Post website.
While these traditions face challenges from technology and changing communication habits, the New Year's lottery remains integral to Japanese culture. Its ability to evolve and adapt ensures its permanence even as society shifts. Each January, families eagerly await the results, preserving the joy and thrill of anticipation, echoing the timeless spirit of New Year celebrations across the country.
This year's event reaffirms the commitment of Japan Post to keep the spirit of New Year's festivities alive, fostering connections among families and communities through both tradition and innovation. The future may see reimagined formats to adapt to society's change, yet the essence of sharing happiness remains.