Japanese names

Japanese culture emphasizes simplicity and elegance. You can see this in the clean lines of Japanese architecture, the exquisite detail of Japanese gardens, and the minimalist beauty of Japanese baby names. Name meanings are significant in Japanese culture, and names have distinctive meanings depending on the kanji characters used. Japanese names are often composed of one to three kanji characters, which can lend different meanings to the same name. Many beautiful Japanese name meanings relate to the natural world. Take Akira, which means "bright" and "clear;" Haru, which means "born in the spring;" and Sakura, which means "cherry blossom." Names that represent virtues are also common in Japan. For example, Rin means "dignified" or "ethical," and Yuko can mean "helpful child" or "gentle child." In Japanese culture, first names are intimate: People often use last names to address acquaintances and first names only with people they're close to. Choosing a Japanese name is a lovely way to pay tribute to Japanese culture, or honor your family's history if you have ties to the Land of the Rising Sun.