What is Haru Saifu? Why Buying a New Wallet in February Brings Good Fortune

In Japan, there is a special day in February called Risshun (立春), which marks the beginning of spring according to the traditional calendar. Although the weather is still chilly, this day has long been celebrated as a symbolic milestone for the start of a new season.

Many people take this opportunity to buy a new wallet in early February to coincide with Risshun. It is believed that starting the year with a fresh wallet brings good fortune and financial luck.

There is also a fascinating linguistic reason behind this tradition. The Japanese word for "Spring" is Haru. Coincidentally, the word for "to swell" or "to be full" is also pronounced Haru.

Because of this pun, a wallet bought in spring is called a Haru Saifu—literally a “swollen wallet,” symbolizing a wallet that is full of money. Over time, this wordplay linked the season of spring with the idea of increasing wealth and prosperity.

Choosing Colors and Feng Shui: The Meaning of Gold and Green

Color is an important consideration for many when choosing a Haru Saifu. According to feng shui, gold symbolizes wealth, while green is believed to encourage money to grow, much like plants in nature. These colors are especially popular choices for spring wallets. Selecting a color based on its symbolic meaning adds an extra layer of fun to shopping. Of course, the most important factor is to pick a color and design that you genuinely love, so you’ll enjoy using your wallet every day.

Organization is Key: Tidy Wallets Attract Luck

Even more important than the date or color is the condition of the wallet itself. A worn-out wallet, or one stuffed with old receipts, loyalty cards, or bills shoved in haphazardly, is said to block financial luck. 

In today's cashless world, it is best to carry a wallet that holds only essential cards and a small amount of cash, keeping everything neat and organized. Treating your wallet with care is considered the first step toward attracting good fortune.

Find Your Favorite Wallet at Ikedaya!

At Ikedaya, we offer a wide range of wallets, from simple, practical designs to gorgeous pieces crafted using traditional Japanese leather techniques. You can purchase them at our online shop, or if you visit Japan, be sure to stop by one of our physical stores. All locations offer tax-free shopping for international visitors.