200+ Japanese Baby Boy Names: Strong, Serene & Meaningful

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In Japanese, the same sound can be written with different kanji, each carrying its own meaning — which is exactly why parents can pick a name that sounds gentle but points to something strong, like a mountain, a light, or steady water. That flexibility is what makes strong-and-serene such a natural pairing: names that read as calm on the surface often carry meanings rooted in resilience or protection once you look at the kanji behind them. Below, you’ll find both traditional and modern picks, each with its kanji, romaji, and meaning spelled out so you can see exactly what you’re choosing.

🔍 Curious how popular a name is?

Check any name's popularity trend since 1880 with our free Baby Name Popularity Checker.

Popularity below is calculated from Social Security Administration data through 2024, the most recent year on record.

Here’s what’s in store –

Names Rooted in Nature and Landscape

Names That Mean Strength, Courage, and Honor

Modern, Short, and Trending Names

Names Inspired by Light, Sun, and Sky

Traditional and Vintage Names

Names That Mean Wisdom, Peace, and Virtue

Names with Beautiful Sounds (Two and Three Syllables)

Nature-Element Names: Fire, Water, Stone, Star

This list was built for families outside Japan who love the language and culture and want to honor it thoughtfully — not pull from the same handful of anime characters everyone recognizes. You’ll find names a Tokyo grandmother would smile at, names trending right now in Osaka kindergartens, and a few softer, gender-neutral choices that have become popular with millennial Japanese parents. Each entry includes the most common kanji writing, the romaji (the Latin-alphabet spelling), and what the name actually means.

A quick note on kanji: most Japanese names can be written several different ways, with different characters changing the nuance even when the sound stays the same. The kanji shown here are the most common or most beautiful versions, but a family can absolutely choose another. The meaning travels with the characters, not the sound.

A note on pronunciation, too: Japanese vowels are short and pure. Ren rhymes with “hen,” not “wren.” Haru is “hah-roo,” two crisp syllables. Yui is “yoo-ee.” Once you hear them spoken once, they tend to stick.

Names Rooted in Nature and Landscape

These are the names that feel like a slow exhale — pulled from mountains, rivers, forests, and skies. They’ve been popular in Japan for centuries because they tie a child to something larger and older than any one family.

Haruki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hah-ROO-kee · hɑːˈruːki
Meaning: spring tree (meaning depends heavily on which kanji are chosen)
Popularity: #9,280 and falling (#8,481 → #9,280, 2024)

Famously borne by novelist Haruki Murakami, with a literary, gentle masculinity.

Riku

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: REE-koo · ˈriːkuː
Meaning: commonly written with the kanji for ‘land’ or ‘continent’; meaning varies by the kanji chosen
Popularity: #4,391 and rising (#4,850 → #4,391, 2024)

Solid, grounded, and one of the most popular Japanese boy names of the last decade.

Kaito

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent)
Pronunciation: KY-toh · ˈkaɪtoʊ
Meaning: Ocean + big dipper
Popularity: #2,030 and rising (#2,205 → #2,030, 2024)

Has a wide, expansive feel — like a kid born to wander.

Yamato

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yah-MAH-toh · jɑːˈmɑːtoʊ
Meaning: origin uncertain; possibly related to ‘yama’ (mountain); conventionally written with kanji (大和) that literally mean ‘great harmony’
Popularity: #14,241 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Also the ancient poetic name for Japan itself.

Sora

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SOH-rah · ˈsoʊrə
Meaning: sky
Popularity: #2,300 and rising (#2,431 → #2,300, 2024)

Soft and gender-neutral; one of the most popular newborn names in Japan right now.

Ren

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent)
Pronunciation: ruh-NAY · rəˈneɪ
Meaning: Lotus
Popularity: #1,145 and falling (#1,081 → #1,145, 2024)

Short, clean, and consistently in Japan’s annual top ten.

Kaede

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KAH-eh-deh (Japanese final ‘e’ is ‘eh’) · kɑːɛdeɪ
Meaning: maple (tree)
Popularity: #7,501 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Works for boys and girls, evoking deep autumn red.

Yuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-kee · ˈjuːki
Meaning: snow (from the common kanji 雪); some spellings instead give ‘happiness’ (幸)
Popularity: #6,800 and rising (#8,893 → #6,800, 2024)

Quiet and luminous; common across genders.

Haru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: HAH-roo · ˈhɑːruː
Meaning: most commonly associated with ‘spring’ (春) or ‘clear weather’ (晴); the meaning varies by the kanji chosen
Popularity: #4,926 and falling (#3,926 → #4,926, 2024)

Warm one-syllable name with a hopeful feel.

Itsuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: eet-SOO-kee · i.tsɯ̥.ki
Meaning: tree or timber
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Tall, steady, and slightly old-fashioned in a beautiful way.

Tsubasa

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tsoo-BAH-sah · tsuːˈbɑːsə
Meaning: wings
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name that sounds like flight; popular with creative families.

Hayate

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hah-YAH-teh · hɑːˈjɑːtɛ
Meaning: a swift, sudden gust of wind
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Crisp and energetic without being aggressive.

Asahi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-SAH-hee · ɑːˈsɑːhiː
Meaning: morning sun
Popularity: #7,268 and falling (#5,952 → #7,268, 2024)

Carries the optimism of a brand-new day.

Mizuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mee-ZOO-kee · mi.zɯ.ki
Meaning: Beautiful moon, lush tree
Popularity: #11,782 and falling (#10,091 → #11,782, 2024)

Soft and poetic; sometimes used for girls too.

Daichi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: dy-CHEE · daɪˈtʃiː
Meaning: great earth or vast land
Popularity: #9,952 as of 2019 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Big-hearted, grounded name with a satisfying weight.

Kazuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-ZOO-kee · kɑːˈzuːki
Meaning: varies by kanji; commonly rendered ‘harmony tree’
Popularity: #13,240 and falling (#10,249 → #13,240, 2024)

Akio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: AH-kee-oh · ˈɑːkioʊ
Meaning: commonly glossed as ‘bright man’, though the precise meaning depends on the kanji used
Popularity: #4,060 and falling (#3,472 → #4,060, 2024)

Quietly distinctive; great for a fall baby.

Natsuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: naht-SOO-kee · nɑːtˈsuːki
Meaning: Summer hope
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Bright and seasonal, used across genders.

Fuyuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: foo-YOO-kee · fuːˈjuːki
Meaning: winter tree
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Rare, atmospheric, beautifully cold.

Takumi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tah-KOO-mee · tɑːˈkuːmi
Meaning: craftsman, artisan
Popularity: #10,748 and rising (#12,064 → #10,748, 2024)

A name that quietly promises skill and care.

Sho

Origin: Japanese (reading shared by several different kanji)
Pronunciation: SHOH · ʃoʊ
Meaning: Soar, fly
Popularity: #8,837 and falling (#8,166 → #8,837, 2024)

Short, modern, and full of motion.

Rin

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: RIN · ˈrɪn
Meaning: meaning depends on which kanji is used to write it (e.g. ‘bell’, ‘dignified/cold’, ‘reason’); no single fixed meaning
Popularity: #7,148 and rising (#11,949 → #7,148, 2024)

Crisp single-syllable name with elegant restraint.

Yuto

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent given name)
Pronunciation: YOO-toh · ˈjuːtoʊ
Meaning: Far-reaching star
Popularity: #6,158 and rising (#12,200 → #6,158, 2024)

Has consistently topped baby-name charts since the 2010s.

Aoi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-OH-ee · ɑːˈoʊ.i
Meaning: hollyhock; or, written with a different character, “blue” or the green of new leaves
Popularity: #8,978 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Used widely for boys and girls; evokes early spring.

Hikari

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-KAH-ree · hiˈkɑːri
Meaning: light
Popularity: #7,024 and rising (#8,649 → #7,024, 2024)

Gentle and luminous; works as a quiet, gender-neutral choice.

Tatsuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: taht-SOO-kee · tɑːtˈsuːki
Meaning: standing tree
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Iwao

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ee-WAH-oh · iwao
Meaning: boulder or crag
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A vintage name with the steadiness of a mountain.

Mori

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: MOR-ee · ˈmɔːri
Meaning: forest
Popularity: #8,100 and rising (#10,434 → #8,100, 2024)

One short syllable that holds a whole landscape.

Names That Mean Strength, Courage, and Honor

These names lean into traditional masculine virtues without sounding heavy or aggressive. A lot of them have warrior or samurai-era roots but feel completely at home on a modern preschooler.

Takeshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tah-KESH-ee · tɑːˈkɛʃiː
Meaning: warrior-like, fierce (commonly written with the kanji 武, ‘martial’)
Popularity: #13,956 and falling (#13,941 → #13,956, 2024)

A classic mid-century name; think *the brave one*.

Isamu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ee-SAH-moo · iːˈsɑːmuː
Meaning: courage, bravery
Popularity: #11,363 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Old-fashioned in the way *Henry* is in English — coming back into fashion.

Tatsuo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: taht-SOO-oh · tɑːtˈsuːoʊ
Meaning: accomplished man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has the quiet confidence of a name you grow into.

Katsu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KAHT-soo · ˈkɑːtsuː
Meaning: victory
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Punchy, single-syllable, often used as a name element (Katsuo, Katsuhiro).

Kenshin

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent)
Pronunciation: KEN-shin · ˈkɛnʃɪn
Meaning: commonly ‘humble’ plus ‘faith/trust’ (kanji-dependent)
Popularity: #13,264 and falling (#8,596 → #13,264, 2024)

Borne by the famous 16th-century daimyo Uesugi Kenshin.

Masaru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-SAH-roo · məˈsɑːruː
Meaning: victory
Popularity: #9,336 as of 1992 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Slightly softer than Katsu but carries the same meaning.

Goro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: GOH-roh · ɡoʊ.roʊ
Meaning: fifth son
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A vintage name that’s quirky-cool in a Wes Anderson way.

Tetsuya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tet-soo-YAH · ˌtɛtsuːˈjɑː
Meaning: Wise, philosophical
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Studious feel; a great name for a quiet kid.

Hideo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-DEH-oh · çiˈdeoʊ
Meaning: excellent hero
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Famous bearer: game designer Hideo Kojima.

Susumu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: soo-SOO-moo · suːˈsuːmuː
Meaning: to advance, progress
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A forward-looking name parents have given for generations.

Tsuyoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tsoo-YOH-shee · tsuːˈjoʊʃi
Meaning: Strong (強 or 剛)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Simple, direct, and traditionally masculine.

Mamoru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-MOH-roo · mɑːˈmoʊruː
Meaning: to protect or defend
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A devoted, guardian-feeling name.

Osamu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: oh-SAH-moo · oʊˈsɑːmuː
Meaning: discipline; to govern or study (meaning varies with the kanji chosen)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

The author of *No Longer Human*, Osamu Dazai, gave it literary weight.

Tadashi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tah-DAH-shee · tɑːˈdɑːʃiː
Meaning: correct, righteous; also glossed as loyal, faithful
Popularity: #8,862 and falling (#8,182 → #8,862, 2024)

Honorable and old-school in the best way.

Hayao

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hah-YAH-oh · hɑːˈjɑːoʊ
Meaning: falcon man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Famous bearer: Hayao Miyazaki.

Ryuu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: RYOO · ɾʲɯː
Meaning: dragon
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Bold, ancient, and surprisingly easy to say.

Tatsuya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: taht-SOO-yah · tɑːtˈsuːjə
Meaning: To reach, accomplish
Popularity: #9,676 as of 2007 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Optimistic and forward-leaning.

Yuuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-kee · ˈjuː.kiː
Meaning: courage
Popularity: #12,284 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

One of the most popular boys’ names in Japan today.

Makoto

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-KOH-toh · mɑːˈkoʊtoʊ
Meaning: truth or sincerity
Popularity: #9,511 and falling (#7,135 → #9,511, 2024)

Gender-neutral and morally weighty without being preachy.

Daisuke

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: dy-SOO-kay · daɪˈsuːkeɪ
Meaning: great help (kanji-dependent)
Popularity: #12,659 as of 2012 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Famously borne by baseball pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Kenji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KEN-jee · ˈkɛndʒi
Meaning: commonly ‘healthy/wise second son’ (varies by kanji chosen)
Popularity: #855 and falling (#827 → #855, 2024)

Warm, common, and easy for English speakers to say.

Shinji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHIN-jee · ˈʃɪn.dʒi
Meaning: true, second son
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has a serious, thoughtful character.

Yoshio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yoh-SHEE-oh · joʊˈʃiː.oʊ
Meaning: righteous man
Popularity: #12,090 as of 2021 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage and dignified, common in the early 1900s.

Akira

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-KEER-uh · ɑːˈkɪərə
Meaning: bright, clear-minded (meaning depends on the kanji used)
Popularity: #2,499 and rising (#2,654 → #2,499, 2024)

Director Akira Kurosawa made this one globally familiar.

Tadao

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tah-DAH-oh · tɑːˈdɑːoʊ
Meaning: loyal, faithful man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

An old-fashioned name with a beautiful kanji.

Hiroshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-ROH-shee · hiːˈroʊʃi
Meaning: Generous, prosperous
Popularity: #7,931 and falling (#5,755 → #7,931, 2024)

Mid-century classic with deep meaning.

Joji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: JOH-jee · d͡ʒo̞ːd͡ʑi
Meaning: yielding and modest
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Quietly noble in a self-effacing way.

Saburo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: sah-BOO-roh · saːbuːɾoː
Meaning: third son
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage and increasingly rare; great if you have a sense of family lineage.

These are the names you’ll actually hear at a Tokyo park today — single-syllable or two-syllable names that feel airy, modern, and slightly minimalist. Several of them work beautifully on bilingual kids.

A consistent top-ten name for over a decade.

Currently the #1 boys’ name in Japan in several recent years.

Sota

Origin: Japanese (modern given name, meaning depends on kanji chosen)
Pronunciation: SOH-tah · ˈsoʊtə
Meaning: Sudden, big
Popularity: #10,726 and rising (#12,043 → #10,726, 2024)

Has a fresh, breezy feel.

Haruto

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hah-ROO-toh · hɑːˈruːtoʊ
Meaning: soars with the sun (meaning depends heavily on which kanji are chosen)
Popularity: #9,281 and falling (#6,309 → #9,281, 2024)

Hugely popular in the 2020s.

Yuma

Origin: two unrelated origins: Quechan (Indigenous American) and Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-mah · ˈjuː.mə
Meaning: Calm truth
Popularity: #15,176 and rising (#15,237 → #15,176, 2024)

Soft and contemporary.

Origin: Japanese or Polynesian (Māori/Hawaiian) — two unrelated origins
Pronunciation: AH-oh · ˈaːoʊ
Meaning: blue-green (Japanese) or, unrelated, cloud/daylight/world (Polynesian)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

One of the newest favorites among Japanese millennials.

Tsumugi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tsoo-MOO-gee · tsuːˈmuːɡi
Meaning: Pongee silk
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Originally feminine but increasingly unisex.

Itto

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: EET-toh · ˈiːtoʊ
Meaning: One soar
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Crisp and aspirational.

Hinata

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-NAH-tah · hiˈnɑːtə
Meaning: Toward the sun
Popularity: #4,495 and falling (#3,294 → #4,495, 2024)

Soft, gender-neutral, very current.

Kanata

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-NAH-tah · kanata
Meaning: distant or far off
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has a wistful, open-horizon quality.

Mio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: MEE-oh · ˈmiːoʊ
Meaning: Beautiful life
Popularity: #6,823 and rising (#8,343 → #6,823, 2024)

Used for boys and girls in modern Japan.

Nagi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: NAH-gee · naɡi
Meaning: calm, lull
Popularity: #8,110 and rising (#9,413 → #8,110, 2024)

Sou

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SOH · soʊ
Meaning: pale blue-green
Popularity: #7,998 as of 1997 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sleek single syllable.

Touma

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: TOH-mah · ˈtoʊmɑː
Meaning: Winter horse (冬馬); other kanji spellings exist
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sophisticated and slightly literary.

Issei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: EES-say · ˈiːseɪ
Meaning: one star
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Elegant and singular.

Rui

Origin: Portuguese; Japanese; Chinese (three distinct, unrelated origins)
Pronunciation: RWAY · ˈrweɪ
Meaning: Base, fort
Popularity: #2,297 and rising (#2,763 → #2,297, 2024)

A short name with grit.

Eito

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: AY-toh · eːto
Meaning: Sparkling star
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Trending hard with parents in their 30s right now.

Kai

Origin: Germanic/Scandinavian (also popularly linked to Hawaiian)
Pronunciation: KY · ˈkaɪ
Meaning: possibly from Latin Caius, or a Frisian pet form of Gerard/Cornelius/Nicholas (‘warrior’); popularly reinterpreted in the US as Hawaiian for ‘sea’
Popularity: #76 and falling (#61 → #76, 2024)

Travels beautifully across cultures.

Yui

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-ee · ˈjuːi
Meaning: bond, connection (kanji-dependent, most commonly 結)
Popularity: #5,764 and rising (#6,154 → #5,764, 2024)

Gender-neutral and quiet.

Aki

Origin: Finnish
Pronunciation: AH-kee · ˈɑːki
Meaning: Autumn
Popularity: #5,885 and rising (#7,301 → #5,885, 2024)

Three letters, full season.

Jin

Origin: Korean
Pronunciation: JIN · dʒɪn
Meaning: Benevolence
Popularity: #2,602 and falling (#2,203 → #2,602, 2024)

A virtue name with a quick, modern sound.

Nao

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: NAH-oh · na.o
Meaning: honest, straightforward
Popularity: #10,457 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Gender-neutral and refreshingly plain.

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOH · joʊ
Meaning: Sunlight
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

One of the shortest names on this list.

Another kanji choice for the same beloved sound.

Names Inspired by Light, Sun, and Sky

Light is one of the most beloved name themes in Japanese — sun, dawn, brightness, and clarity all show up across centuries of naming. These tend to be warm, hopeful choices.

Hikaru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-KAH-roo · hiːˈkɑːruː
Meaning: light, radiance
Popularity: #11,374 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by the chess prodigy Hikaru Nakamura.

Akihiko

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-HEE-koh · ɑːkiˈhiːkoʊ
Meaning: bright boy or prince
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Stately and classic.

Mitsuo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: meet-SOO-oh · mitsɯo
Meaning: shining man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A mid-century favorite.

Hideki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-DEH-kee · çiˈdeki
Meaning: excellent tree
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has a polished, accomplished feel.

Terumi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: teh-ROO-mee · te̞ɾɯ̟ᵝmi
Meaning: Shining sea
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Less common, beautifully visual.

Akimitsu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-MEET-soo · ɑːkiˈmiːtsuː
Meaning: bright light
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name that practically glows.

Hiroaki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-roh-AH-kee · çiˈɺo.a.ki
Meaning: wide brightness
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Distinguished and warm.

Teruo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: teh-ROO-oh · te̞ɾɯ̟ᵝo̞
Meaning: Shining man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage gem worth reconsidering.

Mitsuhiro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: meet-soo-HEE-roh · mitsɯçiɾo
Meaning: vast light
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sweeping, generous feel.

Akihito

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-HEE-toh · ˌɑːkiˈhiːtoʊ
Meaning: bright benevolence
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by Emperor Akihito.

Hideaki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-deh-AH-kee · çide.açi
Meaning: shining excellence
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Studious and refined.

Yoichi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yoh-EE-chee · joʊˈiː.tʃi
Meaning: First sun
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Perfect for a first son.

Akifumi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-FOO-mee · ɑːkiˈfuːmi
Meaning: bright writing or clear text
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

For families that love books.

Mitsuru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: meet-SOO-roo · mitsɯɾɯ
Meaning: to satisfy or become full
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Yoshihiko

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yo-shee-HEE-ko · jo̞ɕiçi̥ko̞
Meaning: righteous young man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Aristocratic and warm.

Akinori

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-NOH-ree · ɑːkiˈnoʊri
Meaning: bright principle or rule
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has the feel of someone people look up to.

Terutoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: teh-roo-TOH-shee · te̞ɾɯ̥to̞ɕi
Meaning: shining and clever (照 shine + 敏/俊 quick, bright)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sharp and luminous.

Hiroto

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-ROH-toh · hiːˈroʊtoʊ
Meaning: big flight
Popularity: #13,046 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Top-ten boys’ name in recent years.

Akiyoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-YOH-shee · ɑːkiˈjoʊʃi
Meaning: bright goodness or clear justice
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Gentle and morally grounded.

Mitsuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: meet-SOO-kee · mi.tsɯ̥.ki
Meaning: Bright hope
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sometimes used for girls too.

Akihisa

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-kee-HEE-sah · ɑːkiˈhiːsə
Meaning: enduring brightness
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Beautiful name for a baby with long-living grandparents.

Teruyuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: teh-roo-YOO-kee · te̞ɾɯjɯ̟ki
Meaning: shining, bright (照 or 輝)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage and rare.

Asuka

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: AH-soo-kah · ˈɑːsuːkɑː
Meaning: Tomorrow’s fragrance
Popularity: #15,982 as of 2018 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Gender-neutral, deeply hopeful.

Yoshimitsu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yo-shee-MEET-soo · jo̞ɕimi̥tsɨᵝ
Meaning: righteous light
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A samurai-era name with poetry built in.

Traditional and Vintage Names

These are the names you’d find on a 1960s family registry — your child’s Japanese grandfather might have one of them. They feel like vintage suits in the way Theodore or Walter do in English: classic, slightly formal, and ready to be loved again.

Shigeru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: shee-GEH-roo · ʃiˈɡɛruː
Meaning: flourishing, lush
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Norio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: NOH-ree-oh · ˈnoʊrioʊ
Meaning: law-abiding man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Steady, traditional, dignified.

Kenzo

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent)
Pronunciation: KEN-zoh · ˈkɛnzoʊ
Meaning: healthy/strong, second element kanji-dependent
Popularity: #586 and rising (#619 → #586, 2024)

Designer Kenzo Takada made it globally familiar.

Toshio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-SHEE-oh · toʊˈʃiːoʊ
Meaning: Quick-witted, talented man (敏 or 俊 + 夫 ‘man’)
Popularity: #12,165 as of 2001 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Mid-century classic.

Yasuo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yah-SOO-oh · ja.sɯ.o
Meaning: Peaceful man
Popularity: #12,180 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

One of the most common Showa-era names.

Minoru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mee-NOH-roo · minoɾɯ
Meaning: to bear fruit; expresses hope for a fruitful, successful life
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name with a quiet productivity to it.

Tsutomu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tsoo-TOH-moo · tsuːˈtoʊmuː
Meaning: To strive, to exert oneself (勉)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage and earnest.

Noboru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: noh-BOH-roo · noʊˈboʊruː
Meaning: to rise, ascend
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Aspirational old-school name.

Kiyoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kee-YOH-shee · kiːˈjoʊʃi
Meaning: pure and clean
Popularity: #9,448 and falling (#7,533 → #9,448, 2024)

Soft and elegantly old-fashioned.

Masayuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-sah-YOO-kee · mɑːsɑːˈjuːki
Meaning: righteous happiness or true good fortune
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sincere, classic.

Takashi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tah-KAH-shee · tɑːˈkɑːʃi
Meaning: noble, prosperous
Popularity: #12,136 and falling (#12,132 → #12,136, 2024)

One of the most beloved 20th-century names.

Nobuyuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: noh-boo-YOO-kee · no̞bɯ̟ᵝjɯ̟ᵝkʲi
Meaning: faithful and happy
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A classic warrior name.

Yutaka

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yoo-TAH-kah · juːˈtɑː.kə
Meaning: abundant, prosperous
Popularity: #9,806 as of 1992 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Generous-feeling.

Hisashi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-SAH-shee · çiˈsa.ɕi
Meaning: enduring ambition
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Kazuo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KAH-zoo-oh · ˈkɑːzuoʊ
Meaning: first man or harmonious man
Popularity: #10,458 as of 2009 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Masahiro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-sah-HEE-roh · mɑːsɑːˈhiːroʊ
Meaning: broad justice or vast and true
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Common, warm, classic.

Ryouichi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ryoh-EE-chee · ɾʲoːiːtɕi
Meaning: good, first-born
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Distinguished older brother energy.

Shoji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHOH-jee · ˈʃoʊdʒi
Meaning: bright, second son
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Vintage in a charming way.

Tomoaki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-moh-AH-kee · toʊmoʊˈɑːki
Meaning: wise and bright (智明); kanji vary
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Considered and gentle.

Yukio

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yoo-KEE-oh · juːkiːoʊ
Meaning: man of good fortune
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by author Yukio Mishima.

Wataru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: wah-TAH-roo · wɑːˈtɑːruː
Meaning: To cross over (渉)
Popularity: #13,938 as of 2015 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Quietly poetic; suggests journey.

Hiroyuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-roh-YOO-kee · çiˈɺo.jɯ.ki
Meaning: widespread happiness
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Generous and traditional.

Tatsuhiko

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: taht-soo-HEE-koh · tɑːtsuːˈhiːkoʊ
Meaning: accomplished young nobleman
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has aristocratic polish.

Ichiro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: EE-chee-roh · ˈiːtʃiroʊ
Meaning: commonly read as ‘first son’
Popularity: #10,250 and rising (#11,353 → #10,250, 2024)

Names That Mean Wisdom, Peace, and Virtue

For parents drawn to names that name a quality — kindness, calm, intelligence — Japanese offers an enormous range. Many of these double as gentle wishes for the child’s character.

Satoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: sah-TOH-shee · sɑːˈtoʊʃiː
Meaning: wise; clear-thinking
Popularity: #13,821 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

The name behind Pokémon’s Ash (Satoshi in Japanese) and Bitcoin’s mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto.

Tomoki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-MOH-kee · toʊˈmoʊki
Meaning: wise tree (智樹); kanji vary
Popularity: #14,126 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name that combines intellect and groundedness.

Yasu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YAH-soo · ja.sɯ
Meaning: peaceful, calm
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Short and gentle.

Anzu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: AHN-zoo · ˈɑːnzuː
Meaning: Apricot
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Soft, sweet, sometimes unisex.

Junichi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: joon-EE-chee · dʒuːˈniːtʃi
Meaning: pure first son
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Refined and earnest.

Tomohiro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-moh-HEE-roh · toʊmoʊˈhiːroʊ
Meaning: wise and broad (智広); kanji vary
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Common and warm.

Yoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOH-shee · ˈjoʊ.ʃi
Meaning: righteous, good (meaning varies by kanji chosen)
Popularity: #8,930 and falling (#6,203 → #8,930, 2024)

Short, broadly recognizable.

Naoki

Origin: Japanese (meaning depends on the kanji chosen)
Pronunciation: nah-OH-kee · nɑːˈoʊki
Meaning: honest tree (a common rendering using 直樹)
Popularity: #9,570 and rising (#13,549 → #9,570, 2024)

One of Japan’s most popular boys’ names for decades.

Tomoya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-MOH-yah · toʊˈmoʊjə
Meaning: Wise, clever (智 or 知, ‘wisdom’); other kanji such as 友 give ‘friend’
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Has a thoughtful, soft sound.

Masato

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mah-SAH-toh · məˈsɑːtoʊ
Meaning: righteous person
Popularity: #13,360 as of 2020 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Common and virtuous.

Kaname

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-NAH-meh · kaname
Meaning: pivot or vital point
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Suggests someone central, indispensable.

Hisao

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-SAH-oh · çiˈsa.o
Meaning: long-lived man
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name that’s basically a wish for longevity.

Yorito

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YO-ree-to · jo̞ɾito̞
Meaning: Trustworthy person (頼 ‘rely on, trust’ + 人 ‘person’)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Reliable and rare.

Tomoharu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-moh-HAH-roo · to.mo.ha.ɾɯ
Meaning: Wise spring
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A great choice for a March or April baby.

Junpei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: JOON-pay · ˈdʒuːnpeɪ
Meaning: pure and peaceful
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Two beautiful virtues stacked.

Yasunari

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yah-soo-NAH-ree · ja.sɯ.na.ɾi
Meaning: Peaceful achievement (安, 康 or 泰 ‘peace’ + 成 ‘accomplish’)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by Nobel laureate Yasunari Kawabata.

Hiroki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-ROH-kee · hiːˈroʊki
Meaning: broad tree
Popularity: #10,185 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Warm, common, easy on Western ears.

Yoshito

Origin: Japanese (kanji unattested)
Pronunciation: yoh-SHEE-toh · joʊˈʃiː.toʊ
Meaning: Righteous person
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Direct and noble.

Toshiyuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-shee-YOO-kee · toʊʃiˈjuːki
Meaning: Clever, talented (敏 or 俊), often paired with 幸 ‘happiness’
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sharp and joyful.

Tomonori

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-moh-NOH-ree · toʊmoʊˈnɔːri
Meaning: wise principle (智則); kanji vary
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Studious and disciplined.

Kazuhiko

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-zoo-HEE-koh · kɑːzuːˈhiːkoʊ
Meaning: harmonious prince
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Aristocratic without being stuffy.

Mitsuyoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: meet-soo-YOH-shee · mitsɯjoɕi
Meaning: radiant righteousness or bright goodness
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Stately and warm.

Yoshinori

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yo-shee-NO-ree · jo̞ɕino̞ɾi
Meaning: righteous rule/principle
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A statesman’s name.

Tomokazu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: toh-moh-KAH-zoo · toʊmoʊˈkɑːzuː
Meaning: wisdom and unity (智一, ‘wise, first’); kanji vary
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

For a first son with thoughtful parents.

Yasuhiro

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: yah-soo-HEE-roh · ja.sɯ.çi.ɾo
Meaning: peaceful + broad/abundant (exact nuance depends on the kanji chosen)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Generous and steady.

Names with Beautiful Sounds (Two and Three Syllables)

This section is for parents who came to the list with a sound in mind — something melodic, rhythmic, or surprisingly easy for English speakers to say. Each of these is real and well-used in Japan, but they happen to flow particularly nicely outside it too.

Renji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: REN-jee · ˈrɛndʒi
Meaning: lotus, second son
Popularity: #7,605 and falling (#6,807 → #7,605, 2024)

Carries the calm of *Ren* with a stronger landing.

Souta

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SOH-tah · ˈsoʊtɑː
Meaning: swift, sturdy
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Brisk and bright, top-ten in recent years.

Yuuta

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-tah · ˈjuː.tɑː
Meaning: distant/eternal and great
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A perennial favorite.

Kazuto

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-ZOO-toh · kɑːˈzuːtoʊ
Meaning: harmonious person or first to soar
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Quietly cool.

Reito

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: RAY-toh · ˈreɪtoʊ
Meaning: beautiful, dipper-star imagery
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Modern and starry.

Eiji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: AY-jee · ˈeɪdʒi
Meaning: prosperous second
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Classic and warm — Honda founder Soichiro’s brother was Eiji.

Junya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: JOON-yah · ˈdʒuːnjɑː
Meaning: pure
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Smooth and contemporary.

Koji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KOH-jee · ˈkoʊdʒi
Meaning: vast second son or peaceful ruler
Popularity: #4,256 and falling (#3,511 → #4,256, 2024)

Easy across cultures.

Reon

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: RAY-on · ˈreɪɒn
Meaning: beautiful sound
Popularity: #3,494 and rising (#6,808 → #3,494, 2024)

Has a poetic, almost musical quality.

Yuji

Origin: Japanese (kanji unattested)
Pronunciation: YOO-jee · ˈjuː.dʒi
Meaning: Helpful guidance
Popularity: #9,831 and falling (#8,955 → #9,831, 2024)

Warm and well-used.

Toya

Origin: Mixed: Pueblo/New Mexico surname or Japanese
Pronunciation: TOY-uh · ˈtɔɪə
Meaning: Winter night
Popularity: #15,526 as of 2018 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Atmospheric and quiet.

Kazuya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: kah-ZOO-yah · kɑːˈzuːjɑː
Meaning: peace and harmony
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Easygoing and modern.

Riki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: REE-kee · ˈriːki
Meaning: power, strength
Popularity: #10,886 and rising (#11,970 → #10,886, 2024)

Compact and energetic.

Shouhei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHOH-hay · ˈʃoʊheɪ
Meaning: soaring, peaceful
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by baseball star Shohei Ohtani.

Yuusei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: YOO-say · ˈjuː.seɪ
Meaning: gentle life (one of several possible kanji readings)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sweet and grounded.

Kohei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KOH-hay · ˈkoʊheɪ
Meaning: peaceful and calm
Popularity: #11,556 as of 2017 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Reliable, warm, common.

Naoya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: nah-OH-yah · naʊˈjɑː
Meaning: straightforward and honest
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Soft and contemporary.

Ryouta

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: RYOH-tah · ɾʲoːta
Meaning: bright, sturdy
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Cheerful, common, easy.

Shinya

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHEEN-yah · ˈʃiːnjɑː
Meaning: cautious, prudent
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Thoughtful with a great rhythm.

Genta

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: GEN-tah · ˈɡɛntɑː
Meaning: great origin
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Punchy and warm.

Ayumu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-YOO-moo · ɑːˈjuːmuː
Meaning: to walk or advance
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A name about taking your own steps; gender-neutral.

Kenta

Origin: Japanese (kanji-dependent)
Pronunciation: KEN-tah · ˈkɛntɑː
Meaning: healthy and strong (kanji-dependent)
Popularity: #7,513 as of 2022 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Confident and common.

Shun

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHOON · ˈʃuːn
Meaning: commonly written with a character meaning ‘talented’ or ‘outstanding’ (e.g. 俊), though names with this reading can use several different kanji with different meanings
Popularity: #13,872 as of 2023 — not currently in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Crisp single-syllable name with old-fashioned dignity.

Nature-Element Names: Fire, Water, Stone, Star

These names anchor to a single element — usually one beautiful kanji — and tend to feel both minimalist and ancient. Great for parents who want a name with one clear, vivid image at its heart.

Hoshi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: HOH-shee · hoʊʃi
Meaning: star
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Spare and bright.

Tsuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: TSOO-kee · ˈtsuːki
Meaning: moon
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Gender-neutral; quietly luminous.

Iwa

Origin: Hawaiian, Japanese, or Polish (unrelated names sharing a spelling)
Pronunciation: EE-wah · ˈiːwɑː
Meaning: Rock
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Spare and grounded.

Kawa

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KAH-wah · kɑːwɑː
Meaning: river (Japanese kawa)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Less commonly a given name but used in some families.

Take

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: TAH-keh · ˈtɑːkeɪ
Meaning: mountain peak
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

One short syllable that holds altitude.

Arashi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-RAH-shee · aˈɾaɕi
Meaning: storm or tempest
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Bold and weather-charged.

Kazan

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KAH-zahn · ˈkɑːzɑːn
Meaning: volcano
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Rare, dramatic, and very visual.

Umi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: OO-mee · ˈuːmi
Meaning: sea, ocean
Popularity: #8,887 and falling (#7,215 → #8,887, 2024)

Used for boys and girls.

Kumo

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: KOO-moh · ˈkuːmoʊ
Meaning: cloud
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Soft and dreamy.

Niji

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: NEE-jee · ɲidʑi
Meaning: rainbow
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Cheerful and gender-neutral.

Hibiki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hee-BEE-kee · çiˈbʲiki
Meaning: echo or resonance
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

A favorite among musical families.

Tsubame

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: tsoo-BAH-meh · tsuːˈbɑːmeɪ
Meaning: swallow (the bird)
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Lyrical and slightly old-fashioned.

Suzu

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SOO-zoo · ˈsuːzuː
Meaning: bell
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Gentle and ringing; often unisex.

Ryusei

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ryoo-SAY · ɾʲɯːseː
Meaning: shooting star
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Dramatic and beautiful.

Hotaru

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: hoh-TAH-roo · hoʊˈtɑːruː
Meaning: firefly
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Soft, summery, gender-neutral.

Tora

Origin: Old Norse (Scandinavian)
Pronunciation: TOH-rah · ˈtɔːrə
Meaning: derived from Old Norse Þóra, a name linked to the god Thor
Popularity: #10,991 and rising (#13,332 → #10,991, 2024)

Bold without being aggressive.

Taka

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: TAH-kah · ˈtɑːkɑː
Meaning: Hawk
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Sharp and elemental.

Shika

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: SHEE-kah · ˈʃiː.kɑː
Meaning: deer
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Rare and gently woodland.

Ryu

Origin: Japanese; also Korean (romanization of 류, from 柳 ‘willow’ or 劉, a surname character)
Pronunciation: RYOO · ˈrjuː
Meaning: Dragon
Popularity: #1,449 and rising (#2,025 → #1,449, 2024)

A simpler kanji variant of the dragon name.

Mikazuki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: mee-kah-ZOO-kee · mikad͡zɯki
Meaning: crescent moon
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Asagi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: ah-SAH-gee · aˈsaɡi
Meaning: pale greenish-blue
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

The color of dawn-sky water.

Kogarashi

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: koh-gah-RAH-shee · ko̞ɡa̠ɾa̠ɕi
Meaning: cold wintry wind
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Atmospheric and very poetic — would suit a December baby.

Murasaki

Origin: Japanese
Pronunciation: moo-rah-SAH-kee · muːrəˈsɑːki
Meaning: purple
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings

Borne by the author of *The Tale of Genji*; usually feminine but has been used as a unisex name in modern families.

Inazuma

Origin: Japanese
Meaning: lightning
Popularity: Not in the U.S. Social Security rankings