A summertime baby name in Japan.

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.

Kiyomi is a Japanese name that means 'sacred and beautiful' or 'clean and beautiful.' It refers to a variety of citrus fruit and is gaining popularity for baby girls in the U.S., with just under 200 girls receiving the name in 2022. Kiyomi combines a meaningful and elegant definition with a unique cultural reference, making it a distinctive choice for parents.

This form of Irina supersedes the original in its native country.

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.

If you're planning to have a younger one.

Commonly used in Japanese families.

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.

An extremely common Japanese name, especially among women.

Distinctive and intriguing relative of Rae.

Niko was used for 17 baby girls in the US last year, and twin sister Nico for another 35 -- though that's still far fewer than the 2700 baby boys who were given either of those two names. There were 1000 baby boys named Niko alone.

Light, bright unisex name. Hikari is more popular for girls in Japan these days.

Dainty and doll-like.

Bright, just like its meaning.

The original Rhiannon has more appeal.

Most common in Japan in the mid-20th century, but to Western ears it doesn't sound dated.