Japanese Boy Names

A very popular unisex name in Japan, Ren is a concise and versatile choice that could work across multiple languages. A rising star in England and Wales where it ranks in the Top 1000, it is also on the rise in the US where it was give to nearly 90 girls and 200 boys in a recent year.

The name of the Japanese god of thunder makes an assertive choice, very much at home in the Western world. Because of the name's similarity to popular baby names Aiden and Jayden, most people will pronounce it RAY-den, but it's more properly RYE-den.

Akira is a popular Japanese name for both sexes that's migrated to the West because of its appearance in manga and video games. Akiro is a related name popular for boys.

Hiro is an apt name for a hero of the show Heroes -- and for our times. Widely used in Japan, sometimes also for girls. Hiroshi is a long form.

A international feeling name of Japanese origin that could be used to refer to a child's place in the family, Kenji has attracted notice in the US as the name of The Food Lab chef, James Kenji López-Alt, know simply as Kenji. It appeared in the latter end of the US Top 1000 in 2023.

This attractive mini-name combines multiple trends: the R initial, vowel-ending boy names, and a fantastical meaning.

This name with a beautiful meaning can be used for girls as well as boys.

Japanese writer Haruki Murakami, well known in the U. S. , might inspire some namesakes.

An appealing Japanese name with a nickname feel.

Kiyoshi is a Japanese male name meaning 'pure', 'clear', or 'quiet'. It combines the elements 'ki' (pure) and 'yoshi' (good, respectful). The name carries connotations of purity of heart and spirit, as well as a calm and serene demeanor. Kiyoshi has been a traditional name in Japan for centuries, often given to boys with hopes they will grow up to be honorable, pure-hearted individuals. While primarily used in Japan, the name has gained some recognition internationally as Japanese culture has become more globally influential. It remains a popular choice for parents seeking a name with meaningful qualities of tranquility and moral integrity.

A very popular Japanese boys' name whose characters refer to the constellation Ursa Major. Short form Hiro might work better in the West, as may another popular Japanese boys' name, Ren.

Commonly used Japanese name -- and not only for a second son.

To honor the majestic mountain.

Minoru is a masculine Japanese name written with various kanji combinations, most commonly meaning 'truth,' 'reality,' 'fruition,' or 'success.' It can also signify 'harvest' or 'bearing fruit,' symbolizing prosperity and achievement. The name has traditional roots in Japan and gained international recognition through notable individuals including artists, athletes, and scholars. Minoru has historical significance in Japanese-American communities, where it remained popular even during challenging periods of Japanese-American relations. The name balances strength with gentleness through its soft consonants and rhythmic sound. While primarily used in Japan and Japanese diaspora communities, Minoru has gained some recognition globally. Parents might choose it for its authentic Japanese heritage, meaningful connotations of truth and accomplishment, and its accessible pronunciation for non-Japanese speakers.

Several artistic Hiroshis make this one of the more plausible Japanese imports.

One Japanese name that feels Western, though not quite American.

Ichiro is a good classic choice for the first boy in a Japanese family.

Shoji is a masculine Japanese name with multiple possible meanings depending on the kanji characters used in writing it. Common interpretations include 'shining ruler,' 'minister,' or 'prosperous peace.' Beyond being a personal name, Shoji also refers to traditional Japanese sliding doors made of translucent paper and wooden frame, adding cultural richness to the name's associations. The name is pronounced with two syllables (SHO-ji) and carries a gentle yet dignified sound. While common in Japan, Shoji remains relatively rare in Western countries, making it distinctive in international contexts. The name connects a child to Japanese heritage and aesthetics, valued for its brevity, clear pronunciation, and cultural significance. Shoji embodies traditional Japanese values of harmony, respect, and natural beauty.

Popular Japanese name exemplified by the distinguished conductor Seiji Ozawa.

As well as Japanese physicist Hideki Yukawa, two Yankees ballplayers, Hideki Irabu and Hideki Matsui, made this name familiar to Americans.