How Japanese names work
A Japanese name has a family name (myōji) and a given name (namae). Family names are inherited, and the most common, like Sato, Suzuki and Takahashi, are each shared by well over a million people. Given names are chosen by parents, often for the meaning and sound of the kanji.
Most common Japanese surnames
| Romaji | Kanji |
|---|
| Sato | 佐藤 |
| Suzuki | 鈴木 |
| Takahashi | 高橋 |
| Tanaka | 田中 |
| Watanabe | 渡辺 |
| Ito | 伊藤 |
| Yamamoto | 山本 |
| Nakamura | 中村 |
| Kobayashi | 小林 |
| Kato | 加藤 |
Honorifics
In conversation, names are usually followed by an honorific: -san (polite, for most people), -kun (often for boys or younger men), -chan (affectionate, for children and close friends) and -sensei (teachers and doctors).
Writing a story set somewhere else? Try the character name generator or the random name generator.
Last reviewed October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Are these real Japanese names?
Yes. Family names come from the most common surnames in Japan, shown with their usual kanji. Given names are popular real names (30 male and 30 female) shown in romaji (Latin letters).
Why is the family name first?
In Japan, the family name traditionally comes first, so Tanaka Yui means Yui of the Tanaka family. When writing in English, many people switch to given name first (Yui Tanaka). The generator shows both orders.
Why are there no kanji for the given names?
Japanese given names can be written with many different kanji, each with its own meaning. Haruto, for example, has dozens of spellings. Rather than guess, the generator shows given names in romaji only.
Can I use these for a story, game or anime character?
Yes. They are common real names, so they suit realistic characters. For an unusual feel, you could pair a rarer surname with a classic given name.
Are these names unisex?
A few, like Yuki, Hinata and Sora, are used for both boys and girls. Choose "Any" to mix both lists.