777 Japanese Baby Boy Names With Meanings

japanese-baby-boy-names-with-meanings

Like most cultures, Japanese baby boy names are influenced by their history, culture, and traditions. These names often combine ancient customs, religious beliefs, and linguistic influences.

The Japanese have been influenced by Chinese culture, which spread particularly during the Tang dynasty (1). It is evident in their use of kanji characters, which were adopted from Chinese script (2). Even though Japanese names are written in kanji, they are still quite distinctive and can easily be differentiated from Chinese names. Many Japanese names for boys are derived from kanji, and the characters chosen often hold symbolic meanings related to nature, virtues, or desired attributes. Most first names in Japan have one, two, or three kanji. Four-syllable names are mostly given to the eldest sons in a family.

Religious beliefs also play a factor in the naming of boys in Japan. Shinto, Japan's indigenous religion (3), has a great influence on naming customs. Many baby boy names are associated with Shinto deities, historical characters, or natural and spiritual elements. Furthermore, Buddhism, which was introduced to Japan via Korea and China (4), also shows its influence in Japanese names. Buddhist names are frequently associated with enlightenment, virtue, or religious notions.

Names in Japanese culture also tend to reflect the parents' hopes for their children. Parents choose names that signify positive attributes or express their aspirations for the child's future success. Positive traits and goals are embodied by names such as Haruki, meaning spring and radiance, and Hiroshi, meaning generous and kind. Some Japanese first names, such as Mayumi, Kaneko, Masuko, and Arata, can also be used as surnames.

Western names have gained popularity in Japan but traditional Japanese names remain highly valued, showcasing Japan's unique naming tradition.

Name Gender Meaning
heart image Deidara Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Explosive artist
heart image Denji Baby Boy Sign Boy One with electromagnetic powers
heart image Denki Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Electricity
heart image Doi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Mountain; Earth
heart image Eevee Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Cute and versatile Pokémon
heart image Eijiro Baby Boy Sign Boy Great second son
heart image Eiko Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Child of splendor
heart image Eito Baby Boy Sign Boy A very prosperous person; they are kind hearted
heart image Eizan Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Sharp and intelligent
heart image Emari Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Blessed with grace
heart image Emiya Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Archer, Protector, Skillful
heart image Emori Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Blessed with beauty
heart image Enix Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Unique; Innovative; Forward-thinking
heart image Enmei Baby Boy Sign Boy Bright circle; Life sustaining
heart image Enso Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Circle, Zen, Enlightenment
heart image Escanor Unisex Baby Sign Unisex The shining one
heart image Evee Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Giver of life; To breathe
heart image Fuka Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Breeze or fusion
heart image Fumi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Literature; History
heart image Fumihiro Baby Boy Sign Boy Extensive condemnation
heart image Gaara Baby Boy Sign Boy Self-loving one
heart image Geisha Baby Boy Sign Boy Japanese traditional entertainer
heart image Genkei Baby Boy Sign Boy The one who deserves honor and integrity
heart image Giichi Baby Boy Sign Boy One rule; The righteous one
heart image Gin Baby Boy Sign Boy Silver
heart image Ginjiro Baby Boy Sign Boy Good silver
heart image Gion Unisex Baby Sign Unisex God is gracious
heart image Goemon Baby Boy Sign Boy Strong-willed; Courageous
heart image Goku Baby Boy Sign Boy Awakened to emptiness
heart image Goro Baby Boy Sign Boy Enlightened son
heart image Goten Baby Boy Sign Boy Heavenly sky; Straight; Perfect
heart image Gou Baby Boy Sign Boy A person who is strong and powerful just like a mountain
heart image Habiki Baby Boy Sign Boy Echo; Sound
heart image Hachi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Eight; A bee or flowerpot
heart image Hachirou Baby Boy Sign Boy Eighth Son; A variant transcription is Hachiro
heart image Hajime Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Beginning; Start
heart image Hakaku Baby Boy Sign Boy White Crane
heart image Haku Baby Boy Sign Boy Eldest brother; Soul; White
heart image Hanabi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Fireworks, celebration, beauty
heart image Hanaya Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Flower shop
heart image Hane Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Feather; Wing
heart image Hannya Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Angry, vengeful spirit
heart image Hansuke Baby Boy Sign Boy A very helpful friend
heart image Hanya Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Graceful queen
heart image Hanzo Baby Boy Sign Boy Strong, noble warrior
heart image Harue Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Spring Bough; Sunshine
heart image Haruka Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Distant or far away
heart image Haruki Baby Boy Sign Boy Bright clear weather; Spring child
heart image Haruko Baby Boy Sign Boy Spring child
heart image Haruna Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Joyful or mountain of happiness
heart image Hatsumi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex First beauty
heart image Hayami Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Mountain beauty
heart image Hayate Baby Boy Sign Boy Sudden; Sound of the wind
heart image Hayato Baby Boy Sign Boy Speedy, swift, or fast
heart image Hayne Baby Boy Sign Boy Warrior; Ruler
heart image Hekima Baby Boy Sign Boy Knowledgeable; Clever
heart image Hibana Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Spark
heart image Hibiki Baby Boy Sign Boy Sound; Echo
heart image Hideaki Baby Boy Sign Boy Bright; Excellent
heart image Hideki Baby Boy Sign Boy Excellence; Esteem; Excellent
heart image Hideo Baby Boy Sign Boy Excellent male child; Excellent Man
heart image Hideyoshi Baby Boy Sign Boy Excellent; Outstanding
heart image Hikaru Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Radiance; Light
heart image Himari Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Gentle, sunny, peaceful
heart image Himawari Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Sunflower or Sun's Flower
heart image Hime Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Princess
heart image Hinami Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Delicate, beautiful, charming
heart image Hinode Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Sunrise
heart image Hiroaki Baby Boy Sign Boy Spreading brightness; Radiance and Gloriousness
heart image Hirohito Baby Boy Sign Boy Plentiful benevolence or goodwill; Abundant Benevolence
heart image Hiroki Baby Boy Sign Boy Big; Brightness; Greatness
heart image Hiromi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Exalted, broad view
heart image Hiromichi Baby Boy Sign Boy Broad street; Wilde Street
heart image Hiromitsu Baby Boy Sign Boy Large light; Extensive Radiance
heart image Hironori Baby Boy Sign Boy Benevolent ruler; Tolerant Ruler
heart image Hiroshi Baby Boy Sign Boy Generous; Tolerant
heart image Hiroyuki Baby Boy Sign Boy A lot of happiness; Broad Happiness
heart image Hiryur Baby Boy Sign Boy A dragon who flies; A versatile and spontaneous individual
heart image Hisahito Baby Boy Sign Boy Virtuous; Calm and Everlasting
heart image Hisao Baby Boy Sign Boy Story of life; Life Story
heart image Hisashi Baby Boy Sign Boy Always with you; A long time intention
heart image Hisato Baby Boy Sign Boy A long lived person; One with a long life
heart image Hisoka Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Secretive; Reserved
heart image Hisoki Baby Boy Sign Boy Secretive; Reserved; A variant of Hisoka
heart image Hitachi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Sunrise
heart image Hitomi Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Pupil of the eye
heart image Hitomu Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Wisdom; Intellect; Beautiful
heart image Hitoshi Baby Boy Sign Boy Equal; Level; Even tempered
heart image Hiyori Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Weather
heart image Homura Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Flame; Firelight
heart image Hona Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Bearer of the garden
heart image Hondo Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Warrior or loyal warrior
heart image Honoka Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Harmony or peaceful spirit
heart image Hoshi Baby Boy Sign Boy Star
heart image Hyousuke Baby Boy Sign Boy Helpful soldier; A soldier who is very helpful; A derivative of Hyousuke
heart image Ichigo Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Strawberry or one with a cheerful spirit
heart image Ichika Unisex Baby Sign Unisex First flower
heart image Ichiro Unisex Baby Sign Unisex First son, first born
heart image Iga Baby Boy Sign Boy Strong warrior
heart image Ika Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Fish; Squid
1 2 3 4 8

Picking a Japanese boy name is a great way to experience the country’s beauty and connect to its heritage and linguistic richness. The above names offer a deep view of the tradition and culture of the Japanese community and can fit into modern preferences while upholding traditional values. You can select a name that signifies power or gentler ones that reflect sweet virtues. Whatever your choice may be, this carefully curated list offers pleasant and one-of-a-kind options that carry timeless appeal.

Infographic: Wonderful Japanese Boy Names You Will Love

Japanese names have a unique melodic feel and are usually written in Kanji script. They reflect the rich ancient Japanese culture. Different Kanji characters combine to make one-of-a-kind names. If you're fascinated with Japanese names, this infographic will help you uncover some of the top names for your boy.

lovely japanese names for your boy (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Japanese boy names mean brilliant and future?

Ayahiko, Koushi, and Ayahito are a few Japanese names meaning 'brilliant.' On the other hand, Asuma, Milay, Mirai, Miran, Mirato, and Sakito represent the 'future.' Although these names share specific meanings, other Kanji combinations can also form them, and their meaning can change.

2. Which Japanese baby boy names mean warrior or dragon?

Aohei, Ayuto, Fumiji, Hayaji, Hideshi, Takao, and Riamu are among several names that mean 'warrior' and are associated with qualities like strength, power, and bravery. Ryū, Ryūji, Ryūnosuke, Hakuryū, Ryohei, and Tatsugo, on the other hand, mean 'dragon.' However, it is vital to note that Japanese names can have different interpretations depending on the kanji characters used to write them.

3. What are some Japanese baby boy names with a historical significance or connection?

Yoshimitsu (the name of a 14th-century shogun named Ashikaga Yoshimitsu), Nobunaga (an influential Japanese figure known as ‘The Great Unifier’), Yukimura (the name of a samurai of the Sengoku period), and Ryōma (the name of a samurai who was instrumental in the establishment of the Empire of Japan in the late Edo period) are some names with prominent historical significance.

4. What are some Japanese baby boy names with powerful meanings?

Tsuyoshi (hard, rigid, or strong), Takeshi (strong, healthy), Kenta (healthy, strong, big, or great), and Riki (power, strength) are a few Japanese boy names that carry meanings associated with strength and vitality.

5. What Japanese baby boy names have a positive or uplifting meaning?

Haruki, from the combination of kanji characters 'haru' (光) and "ki" (輝), means 'light' or 'brightness.' On the other hand, Yuuki, from the Kanji character yū' (優), translates to 'excellence,' 'superiority,' and 'hope. Akira, meaning 'bright and clear,' and Hiroshi, meaning 'tolerant' or 'generous,' are Japanese boy names that exude positivity, hope, and exuberance.

6. What are some Japanese baby boy names that are related to sports or athletics?

Takumi (skilled, artisan), Masashi (elegant, will, purpose), and Daichi (big, great, wisdom) are some Japanese boy names with characters that exemplify the factors required to become a successful sportsperson, such as skill, grace, and ambition. Some famous Japanese sportsmen bearing these names include Takumi Obara, a Japanese athlete who competed in the first Olympic triathlon at the 2000 Summer Olympics. Masashi Ebinuma is a Japanese judoka who won a bronze medal in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

7. What are some Japanese baby boy names inspired by nature?

Daichi (great land), Haruki (clear weather, brightness), Aren (mountain), Gaku (mountain), and Akai (ocean) are some Japanese baby boy names associated with nature's beauty and tranquility.

8. Which Japanese baby boy names mean intelligence or wisdom?

Akitoshi symbolizes clarity and wisdom, whereas Daichirō represents intelligence. Jouken means constancy and intelligence, and Kenki refers to intellect. Like these, several other Japanese boy names that translate to wisdom and intellect include Satoshi and Kenzō.

9. What are some Japanese baby boy names that are easy to pronounce and spell?

Hiro, Ken, Kota, Shin, and Yuki are short and sweet Japanese names with straightforward pronunciation and spelling. These names are common in Japan and convenient for non-Japanese speakers to pronounce and remember.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. The Japanese Missions to Tang China
    7th-9th Centuries
  2. Explore Japan Language
    https://web-japan.org/kidsweb/explore/language/index.html
  3. Japanese Religions
    https://spice.fsi.stanford.edu/docs/japanese_religions
  4. Buddhism in Ancient Japan
    https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1080/buddhism-in-ancient-japan/
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Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood. She also specializes in baby names. A postgraduate in Human Resources from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, she likes understanding...read full bio