User-created list
By ScarlettRobin · Updated May 2023
Across 5 pages
of 5
Japanese
"flower stem"
Attractive but slight Asian alternative, with a 1970s nickname feel.
"the righteous way"
One of the most familiar Japanese names thanks to the first commoner to become empress of Japan and to New York Times book empress Michiko Kakutani.
"blessing"
An Asian name not widely known in the West.
"prosperous"
One of the better-known Japanese names.
"to shine"
Pronunciation would not be obvious to Americans.
"next child"
Distinctive and intriguing relative of Rae.
"treasure, jewel"
A lovely Japanese alternative to Tamara.
"thousand questions"
A popular Japanese name used for the young heroine of the animated film, "Spirited Away."
"plum-blossom child, patient"
Unfamiliar Asian choice that can work for a parent in search of something really different.
"good girl; ocean child"
There are many in Japan, but for most Americans there's only one Yoko. Yoko Ono writes her name with characters meaning "ocean" and "child".
"worker's field"
Not as familiar as some other Asian imports; has a strong unisex feel.
"stone"
Connotes a strong, solid character.
"rice-field stork"
Tazu has a certain snazzy appeal.
"generation jewel"
Japanese name with a special crossover/creative touch via its association with the colorful paintings of acclaimed Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo.
"fortunate"
Kiaria is pretty but sure to prove confusing given all the more familiar Kiara and Keira variations out there.
"pretty child"
Dainty and doll-like.
"lapis lazuli"
Naming babies after precious gems as a protection against evil spirits is an ancient Japanese tradition.
"fortunate child"
What parent wouldn't love this meaning?
"jewel child"
Two similarly delicate names, Tamako and Tamaki, can be found in the Japanese community.
Japanese or Chinese
"tenderness, gentleness; gold"
Similarity to the English name Jean could be a plus in a Japanese-American or Chinese-American family.
