Japanese Names & Their Meanings

How Japanese names are built, plus popular given names and surnames with the meaning behind their kanji.

How Names Work Boy Names Girl Names Surnames

How Japanese Names Work

Japanese names are written family name first, given name second, the opposite order from English. Yamada Tarou means the family name is Yamada and the given name is Tarou, even though Western documents sometimes flip the order to match English convention.

Almost every name is written in kanji, and the same kanji can be read several different ways depending on the person. That's why forms and business cards in Japan often include furigana, small hiragana next to the name, even for native speakers.

Popular Boy Names & Meanings

"great flight"
A name wishing for someone who soars toward big dreams.
"lotus"
The lotus grows up beautifully through muddy water, a symbol of strength and purity.
"sun that soars"
Combines the kanji for sun and flight for a bright, ambitious feel.
"calm, unhurried person"
A name for someone easygoing and steady.
"harbor"
A place where people and ships gather, used for someone who brings others together.

Popular Girl Names & Meanings

"sun and greenery"
Warm, lively, and full of growth.
"tie and garment"
Someone who binds people together in warmth.
"blooms well"
Written with different kanji from the cherry blossom word, though it shares the same sound.
"sprout"
New growth and a gentle reliance on others.
"waterway"
A channel that guides boats safely, used for a name that guides others.

Common Japanese Surnames & Meanings

"help and wisteria"
The most common surname in Japan, found in roughly 1 in 60 people.
"bell tree"
Originally referred to a wooden pole used in Shinto rituals.
"tall bridge"
Likely first belonged to families living near a notable bridge.
"inside the rice field"
One of the most literal, geography-based surnames in Japan.
"crossing point"
Traced back to a clan that guarded a river crossing near Osaka.