Japanese Girl Names

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.

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

Katana is a male name in Old Persian and a well-used word in Japanese, but as a girls' name is these days found more often as Kitana, the name of a princess in the video game Mortal Kombat II.

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

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

Short and catchy form of traditional Asian name.

Dainty and doll-like.

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."

Sachiko was one of the first Japanese names familiar to Americans when it was used in the 1950s by actress Shirley Maclaine for her daughter, called the adorable short form Sachi. While Sachiko does not rank on the US Social Security baby names list, Sachi was given to 25 girls in the most recent year counted.

One of the most familiar and attractive Japanese names, though rarely heard outside that culture.

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

Parents searching for a simple, peaceful name may be attracted to this one.

A popular Japanese name used for the young heroine of the animated film, "Spirited Away."

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

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

If you're planning to have a younger one.

A lovely Japanese alternative to Tamara.

Tazu has a certain snazzy appeal.

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