First Names - Turn Any Name Into Japanese

How to use this page

This content is written for visitors directly under the search tool. It explains each field, gives step-by-step guidance, practical tips, and examples — everything a parent, writer, or designer needs when evaluating Japanese given names.

Step-by-step: Interpreting a name entry

Find by reading or meaning. Search romaji (e.g., Haruto), kana, or English keywords (e.g., “light”, “peace”).
Check the kana (reading). Kana shows how the name is pronounced and is authoritative for reading.
Compare kanji variants. Different kanji produce different meanings while keeping the same pronunciation.
Listen to the audio. Use the player to check pitch and vowel length — helpful for international use.
Save & compare. Use Fav/Save to shortlist and export for sharing or registration.

What each field means

Romaji

Latin-alphabet form used for forms and international contexts.

Kana (reading)

Hiragana or katakana showing exact pronunciation.

Kanji

Characters that give the name meaning. Variants affect nuance and visual balance.

Popularity

Metrics such as views or households indicate relative commonness. Useful but not exhaustive.

Naming conventions & cultural context

Japanese names combine sound and meaning. A single reading can be represented by many kanji; selection depends on meaning, legibility, and tradition. Modern naming favors shorter, readable kanji and internationally friendly pronunciations, while some families preserve generational characters or stroke-count customs.

Choosing kanji — a practical checklist

Definite meaning: prioritize the theme you want (nature, virtue, strength).
Readability: prefer common kanji to avoid future misspellings.
Stroke economy: simpler kanji are easier to write and input digitally.
Legal check: verify kanji are permitted for registration in Japan.

Examples: how entries map to meaning

Takayuki Romaji: Takayuki — Kana: たかゆき — Kanji variants: 隆之 (noble / of) or 貴幸 (precious / happiness). Variant A reads traditional; Variant B emphasizes wellbeing.

Quick reference

Short pointers and an accessible FAQ for immediate visitor support.

Accessibility & pronunciation

Audio uses native pronunciations. Romaji uses Hepburn by default. For formal recordings, consult a native speaker.

Legal & registration

If registering a name in Japan, confirm the kanji are on the government list and check your local municipal office for exact rules.

Quick tips

Say the full name out loud with the family surname.
Write the kanji by hand to ensure neatness and legibility.
Avoid overly obscure kanji unless you have a reason.

FAQ

Multiple kanji combinations can be used. "Correct" depends on the meaning you want and whether the kanji are permitted. Use the details panel to compare variants and consult local registration rules.

Rare kanji are sometimes permitted but may cause input/display issues and frequent corrections. Prefer common characters for ease of use.

Popularity metrics aggregate available datasets and site activity. They give context but are not exhaustive demographic counts.

Invented readings are used creatively, but they can complicate official registration. Always check with authorities before finalizing.

Japanese First Names