A 66-year-old man in Japan won 600 million yen in a lottery but hid the windfall from his wife, secretly spending millions on luxury goods before setting up insurance for his family.
Frugal Lifestyles Saved Millions
Before the win, the man, referred to by Japanese media as “S” to preserve anonymity, worked for a large manufacturing firm and then retired. Together with his wife he received a combined monthly pension of 300,000 yen (about 7,000 PLN).
The couple saved a total of 27 million yen, largely through an exceptionally frugal lifestyle, as reported by Japanese outlets.
Lottery Jackpot
The 66‑year‑old spent mornings at a local café, buying lottery tickets after breakfast. One day he won a 600 million yen jackpot.
He concealed the win from his family, especially his thrifty wife. He disclosed only a 5 million yen win earmarked for a home renovation.
Over six months, he secretly spent about 18 million yen on a luxury car, exclusive resorts, and trips around Japan, masking his actions by riding the subway to a parking lot and wearing old clothes.
Winning Shifts Life
The sudden change and secrecy made him feel lonely and guilty, recalling his father’s solitary life and bankruptcy.
He concluded his negative mood began after his win, remarking “the odds of winning are lower than a lightning strike,” according to the South China Morning Post.
He invested almost 500 million yen in insurance, naming his wife and children as beneficiaries to protect their future.
