Pop Japan

Japan has a traditional and unique way of welcoming the New Year which everyone looks forward to -- the Fukubukuro Season! 

This is when the stores get rid of their old items by putting them in loot bags and marking down the price by up to 50% or more. These bags are called Fukubukuro or the Lucky Bags. Each bag contains different items, like clothes for men and women, jewelry, cosmetics and other items depending on the store. They are usually sealed to prevent knowing what’s inside the bag, giving the thrill of shopping during this season. But today, there are stores who blatantly state what’s inside the bag so the customers will have an idea about what to buy. 

The Fukubukuro Hunting Season usually starts on the first day of January. Sometimes other stores start at the second day or third day, depending on their schedule, and some even last for five days. This is the time when you can witness the stores get crowded with shoppers, hoping to pick up a lucky bag, with items marked down to a lower price. Some even stay the night before the official day starts. That’s how excited they can be for this event!

If you’re planning to join the Fukubukuro next year, here are some useful tips you should remember so you won’t lose your way:

1. Check the opening dates of the store you want to visit. 

Just like what is stated above, not all the stores have the same schedule for the opening of the Fukubukuro. Check the schedule of the stores you would want to visit beforehand. 

2. Go early.

The early bird catches the lucky bags. Go early and go home lucky. 

3. Check the prices.

Here’s a hint: the higher the price, the higher the chance you’ll get an expensive item inside. It’s still discounted, though. So, check, check, check.  

4. Do not open the bag. 

To experience the thrill of buying a fukubukuro, you should not open the bag. While there are some stores today that lets the customers know what’s inside their fukubukuro, it’s much better to get surprised with what’s inside your bag.

5. Roam around the store.

Do not be afraid to roam around the store to find a lucky bag to buy. Take your time, but not for too long. 

6. Choose wisely.

Choosing what to buy can get really pretty confusing, especially if you’re the type who likes to surprise yourself with your purchase. Don’t just pick up a random bag you see. Choose wisely. Consider the price and the brand before you make it to the cashier. Not all the shoppers get to be lucky with their purchase. There’s actually a term used for those unlucky purchase people make --  utsubukuro or the unlucky bags. 

The fukubukuro hunting season is an exciting way of shopping without hurting your pocket. Not only do the locals enjoy this season, many tourists also get to participate in this shopping buzz every start of the year, hoping to acquire their Fukubukuro as well. Get your New Year Shopping done with Fukubukuro! 

Banner photo by Nesnad. Licensed under Creative Commons.