Japanese Boy Names

Raiden

Japanese, English invented name

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…

Shoji

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…

Kiyoshi

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,…

Hiroshi

Japanese

"generous"

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

Akira

Japanese

"bright, intelligent"

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.

Kenji

Japanese

"second son; healthy + second; wise + second; modest second"

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…

Minoru

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,'…

Akio

Japanese

"bright man"

Japanese name common among older generations.

Botan

Japanese

"peony"

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