Female Japanese Names
- Ayu
Origin:
IndonesianMeaning:
"very feminine, beautiful"Description:
A common Indonesian name that is sometimes (as with Mary here) joined with another, as in 'Ayu' and 'Tyas,' which becomes 'Ayuningtyas' and means beautiful heart.
- Ayumi
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"walking beauty; sweetfish"
- Natsu
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"born in the summer"Description:
A summertime baby name in Japan.
- Haru
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"born in the spring; clear weather"Description:
A springtime baby name appropriate for either sex.
- Sayuri
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"small lily"
- Yoriko
Description:
Yoriko is a feminine Japanese name written with various kanji combinations, often including 'yori' (依) meaning 'dependence' or 'reliance' and 'ko' (子) meaning 'child,' a traditional suffix for female names in Japan. The name can convey meanings like 'reliable child' or 'dependent child,' though specific interpretations vary based on the chosen characters. Popular throughout the 20th century in Japan, its usage has declined somewhat as modern parents opt for names with fewer syllables and alternative endings. Outside Japan, Yoriko remains recognizable but uncommon, maintaining its distinctive cultural identity. The name represents traditional Japanese naming conventions while offering a melodic sound that travels well across language barriers.
- Ruriko
Description:
Ruriko is a feminine Japanese name with rich cultural significance. Typically written in kanji characters, its meaning can vary depending on the specific characters used, but common interpretations include 'village child' (瑠璃子) or combinations that reference gems like lapis lazuli with other positive traits. The name carries a traditional Japanese aesthetic while being relatively accessible to non-Japanese speakers. In Japan, Ruriko gained popularity during the mid-20th century and has connections to several notable cultural figures, including actresses and literary characters. Outside Japan, the name remains uncommon but has gained some recognition through Japanese cultural exports like anime and literature. Ruriko offers parents seeking a name with Japanese heritage a melodious option with authentic cultural roots.
- Akiko
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"bright child"Description:
This popular Japanese name has many various meanings (bright, clear, autumn), depending on the combination of kanji used to spell it. The final element is the character ko, meaning "child", which features in many Japanese feminine names. Akiko is one of the best unique names for autumn babies.
- Rai
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"next child"Description:
Distinctive and intriguing relative of Rae.
- Sadako
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"Child of integrity"Description:
Best known to the West through the story of Sadako and the thousand paper cranes, which tells the story of Sadako Sasaki, this name has become synonymous with peace.
- Madoka
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"tranquil"
- Sada
Origin:
Hebrew variation of Sarah; also JapaneseMeaning:
"chaste"Description:
The late actress Sada Thompson introduced this obscure but usable form.
- Ume
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"plum"
- Haruko
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"born in spring"Description:
A traditional possibility for a Japanese or Japanese-American child born in April or May.
- Fumiko
Description:
Fumiko is a Japanese feminine name rich in cultural significance. It combines the elements 'fumi' meaning 'writing' or 'literature' and 'ko' meaning 'child,' a common suffix in traditional Japanese female names. The name suggests a person who is scholarly, artistic, and connected to literary traditions. Fumiko became known internationally through notable bearers like Japanese author Fumiko Enchi. In Western countries, the name remains relatively uncommon, primarily used within Japanese diaspora communities. Fumiko carries the beautiful cultural heritage of Japan while bestowing the virtues of creativity and intellect upon its bearer.
- Shizuku
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"waterdrop"
- Hanako
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"flower child"Description:
Hanako has a delicate sound and quaint meaning -- but there's a catch. According to widespread urban legend in Japan, Hanako is the name of the ghost of a little girl who haunts school bathrooms, who sometimes answers if you call her name.
- Yui
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"superior garment"Description:
Very popular girls' name in Japan not quite as easy to transport westward as the also-popular Rin.
- Misaki
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"beautiful blossom; cape"
- Mayu
Origin:
JapaneseMeaning:
"genuine excellence; cocoon"Description:
Common Japanese name with a pleasant meaning, no matter how you write it.
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