211 Japanese Boy Names & Their Meaning

211 Japanese Boy Names & Their 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

Ankoku - Japanese Boy Names

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

Dosei - Japanese Boy Names

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

12. Goro/Gorou

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

Enkai - Japanese Boy Names

7. Hajime

The beginning

Excellence

9. Hikaru

Radiance, a blessed child.

10. Hisashi

The name means longevity in Japanese

11. Isamu

Courage

Isamu - Japanese Boy Names

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

Nichirin - Japanese Boy Names

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

Traditional Japanese Baby Boy Names With Meanings - Infographic

Also Read:

Hispanic Boy Names
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Asian Boy Names with Meanings
Popular Chinese Boy Names with Meanings

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Ruchelle has a vast experience working with clients in hospitality, health and wellness, entertainment, real estate, and retail. She aims to utilise her learnings to deliver quality content which will in turn help drive sales and customer engagement.