There is a custom called “Otoshidama（お年玉）” in Japan. It is a pocket money that parents and relatives give to children in the New Year. At that time, we will pass the cash in an envelope called ‘Otoshidama-bukuro（お年玉袋）’.
There is a chance of getting rich quick for kids with many relatives. However, in many cases, parents confiscate it while saying “I will save money for your future”. Of course it does not allow children to have a lot of money, and to make money circulate among relatives.
But in the past it was a custom that gives rice cake instead of cash.