Japanese Boy Names

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

Well used in Japan, appreciated for its powerful meaning.

Pleasing crossover possibility.

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

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

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.

Interesting name with a cool, upbeat sound.

Popular Japanese name exemplified by the distinguished conductor Seiji Ozawa.

Kazuo is a boys' name well-used in Japan though not well-known in the U.S. Kazuo Ishiguro is the author of Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go. The emphasis is on the first syllable.

Japanese-born fashion designer Issey Miyake, known for his techno-clothes, could provide baby naming inspiration.

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

The surname of the 44th US President has been been adopted as a first, for girls as well as boys, by admiring parents around the world. And the O beginning even makes it fashionable. Though Barack Obama's name derives from the Luo people of Kenya, Obama is also a Japanese place name and a surname that means "little beach."

Has good vibes via the stork's intimations of longevity.

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

Strong and vital Asian birth order name.

Iku is an easily assimilated Japanese name.

Perfect for a child of Japanese Irish heritage.