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Japanese first names for girls and boys with meanings

The choice of a Japanese first name possesses a unique symbolic richness, deeply rooted in the writing and sonority of the language. Whether for a newborn, a fictional character or through simple cultural curiosity, understanding the meaning behind these names opens a door to Japanese aesthetics. Each first name constitutes a wish or value that one desires to transmit to the person who bears it.

Writing in kanji allows for offering several meanings to the same pronunciation, making each name potentially unique. The selection of characters often responds to aesthetic, seasonal or moral criteria. Here is a detailed exploration of the most popular first names and their meanings, classified by themes and genders.

Criteria for choosing a first name in Japan

The attribution of a name in Japan follows specific cultural rules that go beyond simple sound preference. One of the most studied aspects is the number of character strokes, called seimei handan. Parents often calculate the balance between the strokes of the family name and those of traditional first names to ensure it brings luck to the child.

Current trends and cultural influences

Fashions evolve rapidly in Japan, influenced by literature, manga or public personalities. Whilst first names with two kanji were previously the norm, first names composed of a single character are gaining popularity, particularly for boys. Pop culture also plays a role, such as the first name “Ren” popularised by the manga NANA, or the fluctuating impact of famous sportspeople on parental choices.

Top 10 popular feminine first names

Current feminine first names often favour gentleness, nature and affective bonds. The sonority aims to be fluid and the chosen kanji often evoke poetic or floral images. These names dominate recent birth rankings in Japan.

Girls’ names related to nature and seasons

Nature is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Many parents choose a name according to the birth season or Japanese celebrations close to the date, such as cherry blossom flowering or autumn harvests.

Feminine first names evoking light and beauty

Aesthetic and luminous concepts are omnipresent in feminine first name choices. The kanji for “beauty” (美), “light” (明) or “sun” (陽) return frequently, often combined to form more complex meanings.

Feminine first names symbolising feelings and virtues

Beyond visual aesthetics, many first names express moral qualities, feelings or hopes for the child’s personality. Love, bonds and harmony are central themes.

Top 10 popular masculine first names

Modern masculine first names tend towards short and striking sounds. The meanings often revolve around greatness, vast nature (sky, sea) or human connection. Simple kanji (single character) are particularly in vogue.

Boys’ names inspired by elements and strength

Physical strength, speed and greatness are classic attributes for masculine first names. References to natural elements such as wind, earth or sun serve to illustrate this vigour.

Masculine first names evoking integrity and excellence

Parents often wish to transmit values of honesty, justice and success through their son’s first name. Characters for “truth”, “justice” or “excellence” are therefore frequently used.

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The importance of kanji variations

The same sound can be written in multiple ways, radically changing the meaning of the first name. This is an essential particularity of Japanese that allows for extensive personalisation. The first name “Asuka” perfectly illustrates this orthographic flexibility.