Japanese Girl Names

A simple, importable Japanese name that is used for both males and females and carries a multitude of meanings depending on which character is used to denote it. While most westerners pronounced it rye-oh, its real pronunciation is closer to ree-uh. A similar male name, Ryu, means "dragon."

Unfamiliar Asian choice that can work for a parent in search of something really different.

Similarity to the English name Jean could be a plus in a Japanese-American or Chinese-American family.

Kiaria is pretty but sure to prove confusing given all the more familiar Kiara and Keira variations out there.

Japanese name with a special crossover/creative touch via its association with the colorful paintings of acclaimed Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo.

Naoko is a common Japanese name with an admirable meaning, which, depending on how it's written, can translate to obedient, straight, honest, or green child. Naoko can also be spelled Nahoko.

Tora is the female version of Tor or Thor, the name of the Norse god of thunder. Actress Jeanne Tripplehorn chose it for her daughter.

Barbie's Asian equivalent.

Frequently cited as an example of cruel baby naming, à la Ima Hogg.

One of the better-known Japanese names.

Hanako has a delicate sound and quaint meaning -- but there's a catch. According to widespread urban legend in Japan, Hanako is the name of the ghost of a little girl who haunts school bathrooms, who sometimes answers if you call her name.

Commonly used in Japan, and so much more distinguished than Jen.

Dainty and doll-like.

Pronunciation would not be obvious to Americans.

Popular name in Japan, wouldn't work too well outside that culture.

Simple, Zen-like name of a mythological forest elf.

A traditional possibility for a Japanese or Japanese-American child born in April or May.

The childhood name of the heroine of Memoirs of a Geisha is pretty and accessible. Chiyiko is a pet form.

Well-used in Japan, this name refers to the suzu, a tiny metal bell often placed in a silk charm bag and attached to a girl's undergarment so that a lovely tinkling sound is heard as she moves, and originally thought to frighten demons.

Kyoto is a Japanese city name not yet on the map for babies, but why not?