Find Out Why Japanese Men Entrust Their Entire Salary To Their Wives

In Japanese culture, the tradition of men handing over their entire salaries to their wives for household management runs deep, rooted in post-World War II traditions. Here, traditional gender roles dictate women as homemakers and men as primary breadwinners.

This custom gained traction alongside the rise of the ‘salarymen’ culture, where dedicated white-collar businessmen relinquished their earnings to their wives, receiving a monthly allowance, known as “okozukai,” for personal expenses like cigarettes and beer.

Several factors drive this practice. It reflects cultural norms, assigning women the responsibility of managing household finances due to their historical role as homemakers. Additionally, it fosters transparency and trust within marriages as wives allocate funds for expenses like bills, savings, and discretionary spending for their husbands.

Furthermore, practicality plays a role, with the spouse who may be more available during the day—often the wife, especially if she stays home with children—managing daily expenses.

However, this Japanese tradition is evolving, particularly among couples where both partners work. The necessity for dual financial contributions has prompted a shift in household financial management. Despite this, women still oversee a significant portion (74%) of domestic spending, especially in families with small children.

These changes are influenced by shifting salary sizes and the rising cost of living, making it increasingly difficult for families to rely solely on a single income. As societal dynamics continue to evolve, the traditional practice of men handing over their salaries may undergo further transformations to adapt to modern realities.

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