211 Japanese Boy Names & Their Meanings
In this Article
- Popular Japanese Baby Boy Names
- Cute Japanese Names for Boys
- Unique Japanese Names for Baby Boy
- Common and Cool Japanese Names for Boys
- Short and Long Japanese Names for Boys
- Powerful Japanese Baby Boy Names
- Numerical Japanese Names for Boys
- Japanese Baby Boy Names That Mean Fire and Water
- Japanese Baby Boy Names Meaning Dark
- Celestial Japanese Baby Boy Names
- Mythology Based Japanese Boy Names
- What Was the Tradition Behind the Baby Naming Process in Japan?
- FAQs
- Infographic: Japanese Boy Names With Meanings
Being a parent is a big responsibility. If you’ve recently given birth to a child, as a new parent, you’ll have enough responsibilities towards your bundle of joy, deciding an attractive name for him being one of them. Modern times call for modern names, and we know as a millennial parent, you’ll want a unique (and meaningful) name for your child. So how about selecting a name from a different culture? Pretty unique, right? We bring you a list of Japanese boy names to help you pick the best name for your kiddo! And trust us, whether or not you’re from Japan, you will like these Japanese names.
Popular Japanese Baby Boy Names
Here are some rare Japanese boy names. Pick the one you like the most!
1. Aki
Bright and clear
2. Akihiko
A bright, intelligent child
3. Ankoku
A bright pioneering spirit
4. Botan
The peony flower, which is a symbol of honour and wealth
5. Dai
A traditional Japanese name for baby boy which means large
6. Fuji
Beautiful; this name is also given to boys to honour the majestic mountain
7. Haru
A person born in the spring; sunlight
8. Haruki
A person born during the spring season
9. Hiroshi
A traditional Japanese name which means generous
10. Issey
First-born child
11. Iwai
A stony wall or a well made of stones
12. Jiro
Second child
13. Juro
Best wishes, long life
14. Kane
A warrior
15. Kaneko
A golden child
16. Kai
This name in the Maori and Navajo Indian dialect refers to food and the willow tree
17. Kenji
Strong and vigorous; intelligent second child
18. Maro
Me or myself
19. Mei
Delicate and beautiful
20. Mieko
A beautiful, blessed child
21. Nishimura
A beautiful western village
22. Nobu
It means to have faith in something or to prolong a relationship
23. Oda
A great field
24. Oki
Female name that means ocean centred.
25. Raidon
It means Japanese God of Thunder
26. Raijin
Japanese God of thunder and lightning
27. Ren
Gender a neutral name that means Lotus.
28. Rio
A fragrant white flower like the cherry blossom or Jasmine
29. Seiji
Just and lawful
30. Shinjiro
True and pure
31. Suzuki
A bell shaped tree
32. Tora
This unisex name means tiger
33. Takashi
Noble
34. Yuuma
Male name of Japanese origin that means leisurely or true
35. Yukio
The name means snow-boy and is apt for boys born around the Christmas season. A variation of the name is Yuki.
Cute Japanese Names for Boys
Modern first names in modern Japan include Japanese boy names meaning fire, names that connote whether they are the first, second or third born like Ichiro meaning the firstborn son or Jiro meaning the second-born son. If you want a cute name for your son, take a look at the list given below.
1. Arata
Fresh and new
2. Aoi
Hollyhock flower or the colour blue
3. Aoki
Green tree
4. Akira
Clear and bright
5. Chikyu
Long time and green ground
6. Daku
Daku is a Japanese verb meaning “a long embrace”
7. Daiki
This name in Japanese means born for the great glory
8. Dosei
Nature’s soil
9. Eiji
A popular name for the second son, it means prosperity, peace, and eternity
10. Endo
This name is the ancient name of Lake Hamana of Japan.
11. Eriko
A child
Fifth; this name is usually given to the fifth-born child
13. Hachirou
The eighth son
14. Hideo
A well-accomplished person
15. Iwao
It means rock
16. Katsu
Victorious; Katsuo, Katsumi and Katsuro are a few variations of this name
17. Kioshi
The name stands for purity
18. Makato
One who is true and sincere
19. Masaaki
A wise man
20. Michi
This name means the pathway
21. Naoki
An honest person
22. Osamu
A person who is logical and disciplined
23. Oshan
Creative or light headed
24. Raiden
Japanese God of thunder and lightning
25. Ryuu
This name invokes the dragon spirit
26. Satoshi
This popular name means the wise man blessed with wit and clarity of thoughts
27. Shin
This name has various meanings; it means a gentleman, belief, humble, advancing, new, true, etc.
28. Show/Sho
One who can fly or soar to great heights
29. Sora
The Japanese term for the sky and implies the vastness of positive thoughts
30. Tadao
The name means the loyal one or a great friend
31. Takeo
In Japanese, it means the valiant warrior
32. Takeshi
A warrior
33. Tsukiyomi
As per Japanese mythology amd Shinto religion, it is the name of the moon God.
34. Umi
Mother or sea
35. Wakusei
Japanese term for planets
Unique Japanese Names for Baby Boy
If you are in search of some unique Japanese names for your baby boy, we’ve got that too. Check out the list below and take a pick. Your son will carry the name with him forever, so choose wisely.
1. Aito
A darling child
2. Asahi
Morning, sunlight
3. Akio
Similar to Akiro the name means the glorious one or the hero who brings glory
4. Anzhong
Creative, educated and confident
5. Daisuke
A great friend or a helper
6. Enkai
Deep ocean water
7. Hajime
The beginning
Excellence
9. Hikaru
Radiance, a blessed child.
10. Hisashi
The name means longevity in Japanese
11. Isamu
Courage
12. Isao
The name suggests great merit and honour to the bearer
13. Itsuki
A tree
14. Izanagi
In Japanese mythology it was the name of the creator Deity
15. Junichi
An obedient son
16. Kaede
The name is taken from the name of the maple tree in Japanese.
17. Katashi
This means firmness and is used across cultures to denote the disciplined one.
18. Ken
This name is used for a boy with the qualities of being studious, strong and healthy and modest.
19. Kazuhiko
The harmonious prince who is also prosperous
20. Kei/Kou
It means respect, lucky, excellence, and wise
21. Kenta
A boy who is big, strong, and healthy
22. Kin
Gold
23. Masaru
The victorious one
24. Matsumoto
Base of the pine tree
25. Minori/ Minoru
The term refers to the truth or the true one
26. Nichirin
Ring of the sun or solar
27. Saburo
The third son
28. Shohei
Respect
29. Takao
The name is meant to denote the hero who is both prosperous and noble-hearted
30. Takumi
This means the adroit and adept one who is skillful
Common and Cool Japanese Names for Boys
Explore a blend of tradition and trend with these common and cool Japanese names for boys, each carrying unique significance.
1. Fuyuhiko
“Winter Prince.” This name combines the elegance of winter with the strength associated with royalty.
2. Fuyuhiro
“Vast Winter.” It reflects the grandeur and expansiveness of the winter season.
3. Fuyuyoshi
“Winter Righteousness.” This name embodies a sense of moral integrity and virtue associated with winter.
4. Rin
“Dignified.” It signifies a person with a composed and dignified demeanor, evoking a sense of inner strength.
5. Shuta
“Cultivated Hero.” This name combines the qualities of wisdom and bravery, symbolizing a cultivated and heroic individual.
6. Sogo
“Harmony and Greatness.” It represents a person who strives for harmony and greatness in all aspects of life.
7. Shugo
“Guardian.” This name conveys the sense of protection and watchfulness, symbolizing a guardian-like presence.
8. Touki
“Radiant Brilliance.” It signifies a person who shines brightly, exuding a sense of radiance and brilliance.
9. Yuma
“Courageous Horse.” This name combines the attributes of bravery and strength, symbolizing a courageous and powerful individual.
10. Ritsu
“Law or Discipline.” It embodies a sense of order and discipline, reflecting a person with a strong sense of justice.
11. Shuto
“Cultivated Fighting Spirit.” This name combines the qualities of wisdom and determination in the pursuit of excellence.
12. So
“Blue or Pale.” It conveys a sense of calm and tranquility, evoking imagery of serene skies or gentle waters.
13. Tatsuki
“Achievement and Tree.” This name symbolizes growth, accomplishment, and the strength associated with a sturdy tree.
14. Touji
“Winter Administrator.” It combines the imagery of winter with the role of an administrator or leader.
15. Fuyuki
“Winter Tree.” This name evokes the imagery of a strong, enduring tree in the winter landscape.
16. Osuke
“Cultivated.” It signifies a person who is refined and cultivated, embodying qualities of wisdom and sophistication.
Short and Long Japanese Names for Boys
From brief and snappy to grand and illustrious, explore this list of attractive Japanese boy names, each with distinct charm and significance.
1. Fuyuhito
“Winter Person.” This name evokes imagery of a person who embodies the essence and qualities of winter.
2. Fuyuichirou
“First Son of Winter.” It signifies a special connection to winter, often associated with a firstborn.
3. Kyō
“Capital City.” This name carries a sense of grandeur and significance, reflecting importance and prominence.
4. Masahiko
“Elegant Prince.” It combines the attributes of grace and royalty, symbolizing a prince with refined elegance.
5. Shinsuke
“True Assistance.” This name embodies the qualities of genuine support and helpfulness, reflecting a reliable nature.
6. Shun
“Swift and Talented.” It signifies a person of great skill and agility, often associated with swiftness and excellence.
7. Takahiro
“Noble and Abundant.” This name conveys a sense of nobility and abundance, symbolizing a person of high stature.
8. Tōru
“Pierce Through.” It signifies a person with a determined and resolute nature, often associated with perseverance.
9. Yuki
“Happiness.” This name embodies the concept of joy and contentment, symbolizing a life filled with happiness.
10. Yuta
“Brave and Thick.” It combines attributes of courage and strength, often associated with a sturdy and bold nature.
11. Hideyoshi
“Excellent Luck.” This name signifies a person blessed with outstanding fortune and success in various endeavors.
12. Hirohito
“Abundant and Benevolent.” It embodies the qualities of generosity and abundance, often associated with a kind heart.
13. Kazuyuki
“Harmony and Happiness.” This name combines the concepts of unity and joy, symbolizing a harmonious and joyful life.
14. Nao
“Honest and Straightforward.” It signifies a person with a sincere and direct nature, often associated with integrity.
15. Nobutoshi
“Faithful and Wise.” This name embodies qualities of loyalty and wisdom, reflecting a person of trustworthiness.
16. Shō
“Soar.” It symbolizes a person with the ability to rise above challenges and reach great heights.
17. Yori
“Reliable.” This name signifies a person who is trustworthy and dependable, often associated with reliability and trustworthiness.
Powerful Japanese Baby Boy Names
Discover a collection of formidable Japanese baby boy names, each imbued with strength, authority, and a profound sense of significance.
1. Daichi
Japanese name meaning “great wisdom” or “large earth.”
2. Fumihito
Japanese name signifying “man of abundant beauty” or “person of profound beauty.”
3. Fuyuta
A Japanese name with a possible meaning of “winter rice paddy” or “rice field in winter.”
4. Haruma
Japanese name translating to “spring” (haru) and “true” or “genuine” (ma), symbolizing the arrival of genuine spring.
5. Katsurō
Japanese name composed of “victory” (katsu) and “son” (ro), conveying the idea of a victorious or successful son.
6. Naruhito
Japanese name meaning “a person who will become accomplished” or “a person who will achieve greatness.”
7. Nobuyuki
Japanese name signifying “faith” or “trust” (nobo) and “happiness” or “joy” (yuki), expressing the concept of trustworthy happiness.
8. Seriya
A unique name with no widely recognized meaning in Japanese. It could be a creative or personalized name.
9. Chihiro
Japanese name meaning “a thousand questions” or “wisdom,” often associated with intellectual curiosity and depth of thought.
10. Fuyuto
A variant of Fuyuta, potentially meaning “winter rice field” or “rice paddy in winter.”
11. Haruya
Japanese name with “spring” (haru) and “valuable” or “precious” (ya), suggesting the arrival of a precious springtime.
12. Hiro
Japanese name meaning “generous” or “tolerant,” representing a person with a broad and accommodating nature.
13. Kazuo
Japanese name combining “harmony” or “peace” (kazu) and “man” (o), conveying the idea of a peaceful and harmonious man.
14. Masashi
Japanese name meaning “true” or “correct” (ma) and “direct” or “straight” (shi), indicating a person with honesty and integrity.
15. Shuji
Japanese name signifying “excel” or “prosper” (shu) and “second” or “son” (ji), suggesting a successful and prosperous son.
16. Toya
Japanese name meaning “door” or “house” (to) and “valuable” or “precious” (ya), symbolizing a precious entry or valuable home.
Numerical Japanese Names for Boys
Delve into a numerical realm with these unique Japanese names for boys, where numbers carry cultural and symbolic significance.
1. Ichiro
“First Son.” Signifies the eldest son in a family, embodying honor and responsibility as the first-born child.
2. Shiro
“Fourth Son.” Reflects the position of being the fourth son in a family, carrying unique familial significance.
3. Goro
“Fifth Son.” Signifies the fifth son in a family, often associated with traits of determination and resilience.
4. Rokuro
“Sixth Son.” Represents the sixth son in a family, carrying a sense of individuality and distinction within the family.
5. Shichiro
“Seventh Son.” Holds the significance of being the seventh son, symbolizing a special position within the family hierarchy.
6. Hachiro
“Eighth Son.” Signifies the eighth son in a family, carrying a sense of uniqueness and distinction within the family.
7. Kuro
“Ninth Son.” Reflects the position of being the ninth son in a family, embodying a sense of individuality and significance.
Japanese Baby Boy Names That Mean Fire and Water
Embark on a journey of elemental symbolism with these Japanese baby boy names, evoking the power and balance of fire and water.
1. Faia
“Fire.” A name that directly translates to “fire,” symbolizing its powerful and transformative nature in various contexts.
2. Hinote
“Ignition.” Signifying the moment of ignition or the spark that initiates a fire, evoking notions of initiation and energy.
3. Hoka
“Blaze.” Reflecting a fierce and intense fire, often associated with determination, passion, and strength of character.
4. Homura
“Flame.” Carrying the essence of a vibrant and lively flame, symbolizing passion, vitality, and a strong inner fire.
5. Kaen
“Inferno.” Signifying a powerful and intense fire, often associated with great strength, passion, and transformative energy.
6. Kaji
“Firefighter.” Reflecting the noble profession of firefighting, symbolizing bravery, dedication, and a commitment to safety.
7. Kaki
“Bonfire.” Evoking the image of a large, communal fire, often associated with gatherings, warmth, and celebration.
8. Kasai
“Conflagration.” Signifying a large and destructive fire, often used metaphorically to represent intense emotions or events.
9. Katon
“Blaze of Fire.” Carrying the imagery of a powerful and intense blaze, symbolizing strength, energy, and passion.
10. Kazan
“Volcano.” Reflecting the powerful force of a volcano, symbolizing both destructive power and potential for renewal.
11. Mosu
“Ember.” Signifying a glowing, smoldering piece of wood or coal, often associated with residual warmth and potential.
12. Takibi
“Campfire.” Evoking the image of a small, comforting fire, often associated with camaraderie, storytelling, and warmth.
13. Yaketsuku
“Scorching.” Signifying intense heat or scorching flames, often associated with passion, fervor, and determination.
14. Yakeru
“Burn.” Reflecting the act of burning, symbolizing transformation, purification, and the release of energy.
15. Enyo
“Inferno.” Carrying the essence of a raging inferno, often associated with intense emotions, power, and transformation.
16. Kaimen
“Kindle.” Signifying the act of igniting or kindling a fire, often associated with initiation, inspiration, and beginnings.
17. Kaito
“Sea, Ocean.” Reflecting the vastness and power of the sea, symbolizing strength, depth, and a sense of exploration.
18. Kaiyō
“Ocean, Sea.” Evoking the vast expanse of the ocean, often associated with depth, mystery, and boundless potential.
19. Minakami
“Source of Water.” Signifying the origin or source of a river or stream, often associated with purity and beginnings.
20. Mizu
“Water.” A straightforward name that directly translates to “water,” symbolizing its vital and essential nature in life.
21. Mizuwokakeru
“To Cross Water.” Reflecting the act of crossing or traversing water, often associated with journeys, change, and transition.
22. Suiiki
“Aquatic.” Signifying a connection to water or an aquatic environment, often associated with adaptability and fluidity.
23. Shimesu
“Direct.” Reflecting a sense of guidance or direction, often associated with clarity and purpose in decision-making.
24. Shimizu
“Clear Water.” Signifying water that is pure, clean, and transparent, often associated with purity and clarity of thought.
Japanese Baby Boy Names Meaning Dark
Embrace the enigmatic with these Japanese baby boy names, each carrying the intriguing essence of ‘dark’ and its unique symbolism.
1. Antantaru
“Endless Darkness.” This name symbolizes a profound, eternal darkness, often associated with mystery, depth, and the unknown.
2. Inei
“Shadow.” Reflecting the subtle, elusive presence of shadows, often associated with depth, mystery, and introspection.
3. Kurai
“Dim.” Signifying a state of low light or darkness, often associated with calmness, serenity, and introspection.
4. Kuragari
“Obscurity.” This name embodies the quality of being obscure or unclear, often associated with mystery, depth, and complexity.
5. Kurayami
“Darkness.” It directly translates to “darkness,” symbolizing the state of being without light, often associated with mystery.
6. Yami
“Darkness.” Similar to ‘Kurayami,’ it directly translates to “darkness,” symbolizing the absence of light and associated with mystery.
Celestial Japanese Baby Boy Names
Embark on a celestial journey with these Japanese baby boy names, each inspired by the cosmic wonders of the universe.
1. Hoshi
“Star.” Evokes the brilliance and cosmic wonder of stars, often symbolizing guidance, illumination, and celestial beauty.
2. Mokusei
“Jupiter.” Reflecting the majesty and intrigue of the planet Jupiter, often associated with expansion and exploration.
3. Mūn
“Moon.” Signifying Earth’s celestial companion, often associated with mystery, feminine energy, and cycles of transformation.
4. Myojo
“Morning Star.” Refers to the planet Venus when it appears in the early morning, symbolizing hope, renewal, and guidance.
5. Kikotei
“Comet.” Embodies the wanderers of the cosmos, often associated with change, celestial journeys, and cosmic mysteries.
6. San
“Sun.” Signifying the radiant center of our solar system, often associated with vitality, power, and life-giving energy.
7. Riku
“Land.” Reflecting the earthly realm, often associated with stability, grounding, and our physical connection to the world.
8. Taiyō
“Sun.” Similar to ‘San,’ it signifies the sun’s brilliance and life-giving energy, often associated with vitality and power.
9. Tenmon
“Astronomy.” Embodies the study of the celestial realm, often associated with exploration, wonder, and cosmic knowledge.
10. Tenmongaku
“Astronomy.” Similar to ‘Tenmon,’ it reflects the pursuit of celestial understanding and exploration of the cosmos.
11. Tenpi
“Celestial.” Signifies a connection to the heavens or celestial realms, often associated with transcendence and higher planes.
12. Tsuki
“Moon.” A direct translation, it embodies the lunar influence, often associated with intuition, emotion, and cycles of change.
13. Tsukikage
“Moonlight.” Evokes the gentle, ethereal glow of moonlight, often associated with serenity, reflection, and subtle beauty.
Mythology Based Japanese Boy Names
Step into a world of ancient legends with these Japanese boy names, each inspired by the rich tapestry of mythology.
1. Fujin
“God of Wind.” Fujin is a deity in Japanese mythology responsible for controlling the winds and storms.
2. Kangiten
“Gods of Bliss.” Kangiten are a pair of elephant-headed deities associated with happiness and marital harmony.
3. Kuebiko
“God of Knowledge.” Kuebiko is a deity known for his wisdom and knowledge, often associated with learning.
4. Okuninushi
“Great Land Master.” Okuninushi is a deity of nation-building, farming, and medicine in Japanese mythology.
5. Omoikane
“God of Wisdom and Intelligence.” Omoikane is a deity revered for his intelligence and problem-solving abilities.
6. Ryūjin
“Dragon God.” Ryūjin is the dragon deity of the sea in Japanese mythology, often associated with maritime affairs.
7. Kōjin
“God of the Kitchen.” Kōjin is a deity honored for safeguarding kitchens and food preparation.
8. Kuraokami
“Rain Dragon God.” Kuraokami is a deity associated with rain, often depicted as a dragon.
9. Suijin
“God of Water.” Suijin is a deity presiding over bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and ponds.
10. Tajimamori
“Mountain Deity.” Tajimamori is a deity revered for protecting and overseeing mountains in Japanese mythology.
11. Takemikazuchi
“God of Thunder and Swords.” Takemikazuchi is a deity associated with martial arts, thunder, and swords.
12. Tenjin
“God of Learning.” Tenjin is a deity revered for his association with scholarship, education, and academic pursuits.
What Was the Tradition Behind the Baby Naming Process in Japan?
The following are the traditions behind naming the baby in Japan:
1. Cultural Significance
The process of naming a baby in Japan is deeply rooted in cultural traditions. It often involves choosing a name with auspicious meanings, considering the family’s heritage, and sometimes even incorporating elements from Japanese folklore or mythology.
2. Kanji Characters
Kanji, which are characters derived from Chinese script, play a crucial role in Japanese names. Parents often select kanji that not only sound pleasing but also convey positive meanings or aspirations for their child’s future. The combination of kanji can give a name a unique and personalized significance.
3. Family and Ancestral Influence
Many families in Japan prefer to pass down names through generations, especially within the same lineage. This practice maintains a sense of continuity and honours ancestors. It also reflects a belief in the enduring connection between generations.
4. Ceremonial Naming
In some cases, a formal naming ceremony, known as ‘namae-ko,’ is held for the child. This event may involve the presence of close family members and religious figures who offer blessings and well wishes for the child’s future. The chosen name is announced during this ceremony, marking an important milestone in the child’s life.
FAQs
1. Do Japanese Boy Names Have Specific Kanji Characters Associated With Them?
Yes, Japanese male names often have specific kanji characters associated with them. These characters are chosen for their meanings and may vary based on cultural, familial, or personal significance to the child and their family.
2. Are Japanese Names Difficult to Pronounce for Non-Japanese Speakers?
Yes, Japanese names can be challenging for non-Japanese speakers to pronounce accurately due to the unique phonetic sounds and syllabic structure of the Japanese language.
3. Can Japanese Boy Names Be Combined With Other Names or Have Middle Names?
Traditionally, Japanese boy names do not incorporate middle names. However, parents may choose to combine names or use multiple kanji characters to create a compound name, adding personal or familial significance.
These are some cute, modern, and unique Japanese names – discuss these names with your partner and select the perfect name for your child. You can also explore other names before you settle for one. If you have a child or are soon going to have one, we know you must be having dozens of names in your mind. But if you want a different name for your child, you should definitely consider the names from the above lists. Browse through our list of Japanese names for boys and go for a unique name for your kiddo!
Infographic: Japanese Boy Names With Meanings
Also Read:
Hispanic Boy Names
Anime Names for Baby Boys
Asian Boy Names with Meanings
Popular Chinese Boy Names with Meanings
