Meet Hiroto Kiritani, a Japanese millionaire who lives on coupons

Dubai: Hiroto Kiritani, a 75-year-old millionaire fondly dubbed Japan’s ‘God of Freebies,’ has turned his passion for coupons into an art form. Despite amassing substantial wealth from the stock market, Kiritani lives a remarkably frugal life, earning admiration and curiosity worldwide. His unconventional lifestyle, blending financial prudence with a love for free perks, has made him an internet sensation.

Kiritani’s financial journey began as a professional shogi player, a revered expert in the Japanese version of chess. His skill earned him a teaching role at a securities firm, where his curiosity about the stock market took root. Through keen observation and swift learning, Kiritani made his first 100 million yen in investments.

By mid-2024, his fortune had swelled to nearly 600 million yen, with holdings in over 1,000 companies, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

However, his path to prosperity wasn’t without setbacks. The 2008 stock market crash dealt him a heavy blow, wiping out 200 million yen. This loss profoundly shaped his approach to money, leading him to embrace an extraordinarily thrifty lifestyle. Determined to avoid waste, Kiritani began collecting coupons and shareholder perks across industries, including food, clothing, and entertainment.

Kiritani’s daily routine reflects his dedication to maximising the value of every coupon. Riding through Tokyo’s bustling streets on a bicycle purchased with coupons, he races to redeem offers before they expire.

From complimentary meals to free gym memberships, sauna visits, karaoke sessions, and even roller coaster rides, Kiritani makes the most of his collection. His mantra, “Letting coupons expire is shameful,” underscores his unwavering commitment to this lifestyle.

His home, though more spacious than in the past, resembles a cluttered storage room rather than a luxurious residence. Kiritani eschews luxury brands, opting for simple clothes and practical living.

Even his indulgences come with a twist: he watches over 140 movies annually using the more than 300 tickets he receives, often treating theatre seats as a cozy napping spot rather than focusing on the films.

Kiritani’s approach to life has brought him widespread acclaim. His books and television appearances, where he shares tips on frugal living, have inspired younger generations to rethink their relationship with money. For Kiritani, the thrill of leveraging every coupon and extracting maximum value from minimal resources adds excitement and purpose to his life.

In a world often captivated by opulence, Kiritani stands out as a testament to the joys of simplicity and resourcefulness. His story of resilience and ingenuity continues to resonate, proving that wealth isn’t just about accumulation but also about making the most of what one has.