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
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Nory
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex From the north
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Notin
Baby Boy Sign Boy One which is round and nothing less
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Ohagi
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Derived from the plant hagi
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Ohta
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Eyes of the Almighty God; Free from dirt or impurities
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Oka
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Cherry Blossom; Hill
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Okami
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Wolf; Great god; Great spirit
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Ome
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Outgoing
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Orihime
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Weaving Princess
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Orochi
Baby Boy Sign Boy Big snake
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Orochimaru
Baby Boy Sign Boy Serpent
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Osaka
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Large hill or slope
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Oshi
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Thank you; A person's favorite idol or actor
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Oshia
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex God supports; God will save
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Oshin
Baby Boy Sign Boy From a Japanese television series
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Ozai
Baby Boy Sign Boy Powerful; Fire
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Pikachu
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex A sparkling sound made by a mouse
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Pon
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Blessing; Fortunate
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Raden
Baby Boy Sign Boy God of thunder
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Raeden
Baby Boy Sign Boy Thunder God
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Rai
Baby Boy Sign Boy Lightning; Protecting hands
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Raiden
Baby Boy Sign Boy Lightning; God's spirit
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Raidon
Baby Boy Sign Boy God of thunder
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Raijin
Baby Boy Sign Boy A spirit of thunder
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Raizo
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Strong, intelligent, and mysterious
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Ramen
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Japanese noodle soup dish
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Rean
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Loyal and brave
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Reiji
Baby Boy Sign Boy Courteous child; A well-mannered baby; Kind and well-behaved
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Reiki
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex A practice of healing the spirit
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Reiko
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Lovely child
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Reila
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Lively; God has given
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Reimi
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Guardian, loyal, caring
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Renji
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Lotus; Benevolent; Righteous
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Renoa
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Powerful; Unique; Mysterious
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Renya
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Song of God
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Renzo
Baby Boy Sign Boy The third son in the family
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Reo
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Cherry blossom; River
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Reon
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Bell; Orchestra
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Reona
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Lotus in the pond
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Revy
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Shadowy, rebellious, fierce
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Richu
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Bright; Brilliant; Intellectual
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Riho
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Gentle, graceful
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Riken
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Strong, powerful, noble
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Riki
Baby Boy Sign Boy Strength; Power; Powerful leader
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Rikishi
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Sumo wrestler
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Rikiya
Baby Boy Sign Boy Brave leader
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Rikuto
Baby Boy Sign Boy A person of the land
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Rin
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex A cold, severe and dignified person
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Ringo
Baby Boy Sign Boy One who is like an apple
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Rinka
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Simple; Elegant; Flowing
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Rinna
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Joyful and lively
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Rio
Baby Boy Sign Boy One who is like the river
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Riri
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Beautiful; Jasmine
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Rito
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Joyful; Rhythmical; Playful
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Riyona
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Singing; Melody
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Riyu
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Reason; Truth
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Roronoa
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Strong; Fearless; Warrior
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Rui
Baby Boy Sign Boy He who is known for his power and fame
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Ruka
Baby Boy Sign Boy Bright Blue Flower; Spiritual
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Ruki
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Bright blue
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Rydia
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Gift of God
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Ryo
Baby Boy Sign Boy Cool; Refreshing; Distant reality; Dragon
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Ryoma
Baby Boy Sign Boy Lightning, dragon, hero
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Ryona
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Blessed guardian
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Ryota
Baby Boy Sign Boy Clear; Refreshing; Something good
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Ryoto
Baby Boy Sign Boy A person who is like a dragon
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Ryu
Baby Boy Sign Boy To be as mighty as a Dragon
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Ryuji
Baby Boy Sign Boy Dragon's son
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Ryujin
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Dragon god or dragon spirit
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Ryuk
Baby Boy Sign Boy Death God
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Ryuko
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Ddragon child; Child of the dragon
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Ryusei
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Shooting star
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Ryuu
Baby Boy Sign Boy Dragon; A variant of Ryu
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Ryuusei
Baby Boy Sign Boy One who is reborn as holy and prosperous
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Saburo
Baby Boy Sign Boy Third-born Son
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Sacai
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Unique and rare
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Sachi
Baby Boy Sign Boy Happiness; Good luck
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Sachihiro
Baby Boy Sign Boy A broad happiness
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Saiyan
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex A warrior race from outer space
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Sakiya
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Protector; One who brings happiness
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Saku
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Remembrance of the Divine
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Samurai
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Warrior, honor, discipline
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Samuru
Baby Boy Sign Boy His name is God
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Sanae
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Radiance or brilliance
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Sanin
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Bright; Radiant
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Sanji
Baby Boy Sign Boy One who is full of life; Vigor
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Sanyu
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Happiness
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Sarada
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Goddess of knowledge, faith, and purity
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Saryn
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Strong; Graceful
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Sasori
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Scorpion
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Sasuke
Baby Boy Sign Boy A helper
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Satori
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Enlightenment or awakening
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Satoshi
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Clear thinking; Quick learner
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Sayori
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Joyful, cheerful, peaceful
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Sayu
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Swift river
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Sei
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex victory, achievement, successful
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Seiichi
Baby Boy Sign Boy A firstborn son
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Seiji
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Pure; Truthful; Sincere
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Seiua
Baby Boy Sign Boy An arrow star; The almighty pure father figure
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Seiya
Unisex Baby Sign Unisex Serene night
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Seto
Baby Boy Sign Boy White
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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