TL;DR
Apple will run a New Year Sale in Japan from January 2–5 with Apple Gift Cards across product lines and a complimentary limited-edition AirTag for qualifying iPhone purchases. The special AirTag carries a Daruma engraving and is capped at 65,000 units, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
What happened
Apple has launched its annual New Year Sale in Japan, running from January 2 through January 5, covering iPhone, Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods and select accessories. Buyers in qualifying categories receive Apple Gift Cards whose values vary by product: iPhone purchases qualify for cards up to ¥12,000, Macs can receive up to ¥38,000, iPads up to ¥15,000, Apple Watch up to ¥8,000, and AirPods up to ¥12,000. Selected accessories such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod and Magic Keyboard are eligible for gift cards up to ¥8,000. In addition, eligible iPhone buyers can claim a complimentary limited-edition AirTag engraved with a Daruma motif, a traditional Japanese symbol linked to good fortune; Apple says 65,000 of these AirTags are available and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Full terms are posted on Apple’s Japan online store.
Why it matters
- Provides monetary incentives across multiple Apple product lines, increasing potential savings for buyers in Japan.
- The Daruma-engraved AirTag adds a region-specific collectible element, likely to drive early demand among customers.
- A finite run of 65,000 AirTags creates urgency and could affect stock availability during the short promotion window.
- Gift-card amounts vary by device, which may influence purchasing decisions between models and product categories.
Key facts
- Promotion dates: January 2–January 5 (Japan).
- Eligible product categories: iPhone, Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods and select accessories.
- Gift card values: iPhone up to ¥12,000; Mac up to ¥38,000; iPad up to ¥15,000; Apple Watch up to ¥8,000; AirPods up to ¥12,000.
- Select accessories such as Apple TV 4K, HomePod and Magic Keyboard qualify for up to ¥8,000 in gift cards.
- Limited-edition AirTag features a Daruma engraving tied to Japanese tradition.
- Apple has allocated 65,000 Daruma AirTags for the promotion.
- The Daruma AirTags are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Full promotion terms are available on Apple’s Japan online store.
- Apple compared this promotion format to its Back to School offers in other countries.
What to watch next
- Whether the Daruma AirTag allocation sells out early given the limited 65,000 units — not confirmed in the source.
- Exact eligibility details for online vs. in-store purchases and any regional restrictions — not confirmed in the source.
- If Apple extends similar limited-edition items or gift-card offers to other markets in future promotions — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- AirTag: A small Bluetooth-enabled tracking device produced by Apple for locating personal items through a network of Apple devices.
- Daruma: A traditional Japanese talisman, often depicted as a round doll, associated with perseverance, good luck and wish fulfillment.
- Apple Gift Card: A prepaid digital card from Apple that can be used toward Apple products, services, or accessories where accepted.
- First-come, first-served: An allocation method where goods are distributed to customers in the order they request them until the supply is exhausted.
Reader FAQ
When does the New Year Sale run in Japan?
The promotion runs from January 2 through January 5.
Which purchases qualify for the limited-edition AirTag?
Eligible iPhone purchases qualify for the Daruma-engraved AirTag.
How many limited-edition AirTags are available?
Apple allocated 65,000 units for the promotion.
Are details about in-store versus online eligibility provided?
not confirmed in the source
Here are six exciting Apple product launches to look forward to in 2026 Michael Burkhardt Dec 27 2025 AIRTAG JAPAN Apple’s New Year Sale in Japan includes a free limited-edition…
Sources
- Apple’s New Year Sale in Japan includes a free limited-edition AirTag
- Apple Reveals Annual Japanese New Year Promotion …
- Apple Unveils Limited Edition AirTag for Japan's Year …
- Apple offers free AirTag for Japanese New Year festival
Related posts
- Two days left to convert your Stadia controller to Bluetooth and avoid e‑waste
- Apple appeals £1.5bn UK ruling that found App Store fees excessive
- CardPointers revamp for iOS 26 brings AI, Liquid Glass, 50% discount