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Learn all about Japanese Names

Do you want to know how to write your name in Japanese?

We’ll be honest with you—one of the questions we get asked the most on JapanesePod101 is on — yes, you guessed it — names. The most frequently asked questions include:

  • “How do you write an English name in Japanese?”
  • “Is it possible to make a nickname up and ask native Japanese speakers to use it?”
  • “Are there any Japanese names that sound like English names?”

For those who want to have their name in Japanese, we have made it simple for you to write your name today. Yes, today! This post is your one-stop guide regarding Japanese names!
 

Ask Us How to Write Your Name in Japanese!

Write your name in Japanese!

Want to know how to write your name in Japanese? Just ask us! We’ll write your name in Japanese.

  • Write your name in the English alphabet. Our Japanese teachers might not be able to read it otherwise.
  • If your name is pronounced differently from the spelling, please let us know the pronunciation.

How can you ask? First, log in to JapanesePod101. Then, simply leave a comment on this page.
 

 

Related Lessons

Writing Series
Writing in Japanese
 
Introduction to Japanese
Introduction to Japanese
 
Japanese Pronunciation
Japanese Pronunciation
 
Learn Japanese Every Day
Every DayJapanese
 

Table of Contents

  1. How to Write Your Name in Japanese
  2. How to Make Up Your Japanese Nickname
  3. Related Lessons

 

1. How to Write Your Name in Japanese

Top

 

Japanese people use Katakana to write English names. To write your English name in the Japanese alphabet, first you need to know the basics of Katakana.

The easiest way is to find a Katakana letter that corresponds to the pronunciation of your Japanese name. For example, if your name is “Maya,” look for the Katakana character for ma, which is マ, then the other character for ya, which is ヤ. You just need to put them together and write マヤ for “Maya.”

Japanese Alphabet Letters

Here are some English names in Katakana.

  • Noah ノア (Noa)
  • Jacob ジェイコブ (Jeikobu)
  • Micheael マイケル (Maikeru)
  • Daniel ダニエル (Danieru)
  • Olivia オリビア (Oribia)
  • George ジョージ (Jōji)
  • Thomas トーマス (Tōmasu)
  • Kimberly キンバリー (Kinbarī)

If you cannot find your name on this list or want to make your name in Katakana by yourself, here’s our video series for you. Check out How to Write in Japanese: Hiragana & Katakana and learn how to write Katakana for your English name.

This will help you learn the Japanese alphabet and start writing your name in Japanese by yourself!

 

2. How to Make Up Your Japanese Nickname

Top

How to Make Up Your Japanese Name
 

If you want to have your own Japanese name that sounds like a typical name that any native speaker could read and understand without problems, don’t worry.

Here’s a list of Japanese names hand-picked by our team. Pick the one that you like and use it as your Japanese name.

 

A. Japanese First Names

- a. Japanese Female Names

  • ミサキ (Misaki)
  • タケノ (Takeno)
  • ユイ (Yui)
  • ヒロコ (Hiroko)
  • ヒマリ (Himari)
  • シオリ (Siori)
  • ミオ (Mio)
  • ナツコ (Natsuko)

- b. Japanese Male Names

  • ダイチ(Daichi)
  • エイタ(Eita)
  • ヤマト(Yamato)
  • ケント(Kento)
  • ユウキ(Yūki)
  • リョウタ (Ryōta)
  • イツキ (Itsuki)
  • ワタル (Wataru)

B. Japanese Last Names

For those who want to have your own Japanese last name too, here’s the list of popular Japanese last names.

  • ワタナベ　(Watanabe)
  • ナカムラ　(Nakamura)
  • タカハシ　(Takahashi)
  • コバヤシ　(Kobayashi)
  • ササキ　（Sasaki)
  • サトウ　(Satō)
  • スズキ　(Suzuki)
  • タナカ　(Tanaka)
  • イトウ　(Itō)
  • ヤマモト　(Yamamoto)

 

3. Related Lessons

Top

Writing Series
 
In this video series, you will learn the Japanese alphabet, known as Kana We will teach you Hiragana and Katakana using simple steps, showing you the correct stroke order, helpful tricks for memorization, and proper usage in common Japanese words. If you want to get started reading and writing Japanese, this is THE place to start.

Go to Writing Series

 

Introduction to Japanese
 
Want to learn Japanese? Don’t know where to start? This is it. The Introduction to Japanese series is perfect for those who know zero Japanese but want to take that first step. In this series, you’ll learn all about the Japanese language, as well as grammar, writing and phrases to get you started.

Go to Introduction Series

 

Japanese Pronunciation Guide
 
Ready to sound like a native Japanese speaker? Join us in the Ultimate Japanese Pronunciation Series! You’ll learn the ins and outs of perfect Japanese pronunciation. You’ll learn the common mistakes learners make, how to avoid them, and the nuances that only native speakers are aware of.

Go to Pronunciation Guide

 

Every Day Japanese
 
Learn the basics you need to be polite while speaking Japanese. In this fast-paced and fun series you’ll learn the most popular Japanese phrases. We will take you step-by-step through must-know phrases. Plus, you’ll get some special tips on how to be extra authentic when interacting with native Japanese speakers.

Go to Every Day Series
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3984 Comments
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😄 😞 😳 😁 😒 😎 😠 😆 😅 😜 😉 😭 😇 😴 😮 😈 ❤️️ 👍

JapanesePod101.com Verified
March 19th, 2018 at 07:19 PM
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What's your name? Leave a comment. We'll write your name in Japanese katakana 😄


P.S. If your name is pronounced differently from the spelling, please let us know the pronunciation too.

Sephira
November 24th, 2024 at 10:00 AM
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My name is "Polly" but I go-by "Sephira"


I love how your programs give PDFs! I am a tactile learner so having PDFs to print has been a huge help! Thank you!

Nishita
November 20th, 2024 at 04:51 PM
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Loved the site, just amazing👍

April
November 19th, 2024 at 09:31 PM
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Fun fun fun! 🫶🏻🙇🏼‍♀️

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:54 PM
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Hi Nicolas!

To write "Nicolas Mercier" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ニコラ メルシエ (Nikora Merushie).

It’s such an elegant name, and we’re glad to help translate it for you!


Hi Verena!

To write "Verena Bahr" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ヴェレナ バー (Verena Bā).

Your name translates beautifully into Japanese, and we hope you love it!


Hi Sandy!

To write "Sandy Likar" in Japanese katakana, you can use: サンディ リカール (Sandi Rikāru).

It’s always a delight to see names translated into Japanese characters!


Hi Juwairiya!

To write "Juwairiya" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ジュワイリヤ (Juwairiya).

Your name looks stunning in Japanese, and we’re happy to share this with you!


Hi Aykut!

To write "Aykut" in Japanese katakana, you can use: アイカット (Aikatto).

It’s such a distinctive name, and we’re thrilled to translate it for you!


Hi Gautier!

To write "Gautier" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ゴーティエ (Gōtie).

We’re so glad to have helped with your name!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") 😄

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:51 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Sebastian!

To write "Sebastian McGinnis" in Japanese katakana, you can use: セバスチャン マッギニス (Sebasuchan Magginisu). For your nickname "Bash," you can use: バッシュ (Basshu).

We hope you enjoy seeing both your full name and nickname in Japanese!


Hi Thomas!

To write "Thomas Wayne Smalling" in Japanese katakana, you can use: トーマス ウェイン スモーリング (Tōmasu Wein Sumōringu).

Thank you for your kind words, and we’re glad to help with this translation!


Hi Tim!

Thank you for sharing your name! To write "Tim Reinhard" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ティム ラインハルト (Timu Rainharuto).

We’re excited to share this with you and hope you enjoy seeing it in Japanese!


Hi James!

To write "James White" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ジェームズ ホワイト (Jēmuzu Howaito).

It’s such a classic name, and it looks great in Japanese!


Hi Shane!

To write "Shane Griffin" in Japanese katakana, you can use: シェーン グリフィン (Shēn Gurifin).

We’re happy to help you see your name in Japanese characters!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") 👍

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:48 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Magdalene!

To write "Magdalene Ng" in Japanese katakana, you can use: マグダレン グ (Magudaren Gu).

Your name looks wonderful in Japanese characters, and we hope you enjoy it!


Hi Genesis!

To write "Genesis" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ジェネシス (Jeneshisu).

It’s such a unique and powerful name, and we’re happy to share it in Japanese!


Hi Jeanette!

Good morning to you too! To write "Jeanette" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ジャネット (Janetto).

We hope this brightens your day and helps with your curiosity!


Hi Karen!

To write "Karen" in Japanese katakana, you can use: カレン (Karen).

It’s a name that translates beautifully into Japanese!


Hi Samayala!

To write "Samayala" in Japanese katakana, you can use: サマヤラ (Samayara).

We hope you enjoy seeing how your unique name looks in Japanese!


Hi Pulak!

To write "Pulak" in Japanese katakana, you can use: プラク (Puraku).

It’s always fun to see how names take shape in Japanese!


Hi Yuvraj!

To write "Yuvraj" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ユヴラジ (Yuvuraji).

Thank you for your question—we’re glad to provide this for you!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") 😄

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:45 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Alelie!

Thank you for sharing your excitement! To write "Alelie V. Simbulan" in Japanese katakana, you can use: アレリー V. シンブラン (Arerī V. Shinburan).

We’re thrilled to help you see your name in Japanese!


Hi Trinh!

To write "Trinh Tran" in Japanese katakana, you can use: チン トラン (Chin Toran).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name translated into Japanese characters!


Hi Wai!

You’re right—your name is unique! To write "Wai Sum Choong" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ワイ サム チョン (Wai Samu Chon).

We hope this helps, and let us know if you have any other questions!


Hi Alex!

To write "Alex" in Japanese katakana, you can use: アレックス (Arekkusu).

It’s a classic and versatile name in Japanese, too!


Hi Norman!

To write "Norman Cyr" (with "Cyr" pronounced as "Sear") in Japanese katakana, you can use: ノーマン シア (Nōman Shia).

We hope you love seeing your name in Japanese!


Hi Lyn (Rin Waka)!

Thank you for your thoughtful and kind message! The kanji you chose, 琳 和歌 (Rin Waka), is both elegant and meaningful. 琳 suggests something precious, and 和歌 refers to traditional Japanese poetry, creating a sophisticated combination. It’s a beautiful choice for a personal name seal (hanko), and it’s perfectly acceptable to use it.

We’re so glad to hear that you find our site helpful and inspiring. If you have more ideas or need additional feedback, feel free to reach out anytime!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") 👍

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:42 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Menchie!

Do you like メンチカツ (Menchikatsu)?😉

It’s always fun seeing how names translate into Japanese!


Hi Alice!

Thank you for sharing your name and the story behind it! To write "Alice Lelong" in Japanese katakana, you can use: アリス ルロン (Arisu Ruron).

We hope this makes signing up on Japanese websites a little easier!


Hi Fiona!

To write "Fiona" in Japanese katakana, you can use: フィオナ (Fiona).

Feel free to use this whenever you need your name in Japanese!


Hi Bryon!

That’s exciting that you’ll be visiting Japan in 2025! To write "Bryon" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ブライオン (Buraion), based on your pronunciation "B-reye-an."

Wishing you an amazing trip in advance!


Hi Honesty!

Great question! To write "Honesty" in Japanese katakana, you can use: オネスティ (Onesuti).

We’re glad to help with a unique name like yours!


Hi Mario!

To write "Mario" in Japanese katakana, you can use: マリオ (Mario).

It’s a simple and beautiful name to see in Japanese characters!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") 😎

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:38 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Ingrid!

That’s so exciting that you’re traveling to Japan! To write "Ingrid Schroder" in Japanese katakana, you can use: イングリッド シュローダー (Inguriddo Shurōdā).

We hope this helps you prepare for your trip!


Hi Fiona!

To write "Fiona" in Japanese katakana, you can use: フィオナ (Fiona).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name written in Japanese!


Hi Loli!

It’s great that you’ll be visiting Japan in 2026! To write "Loli" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ロリ (Rori).

We hope this helps with your preparations!


Hi Stephen!

Thank you for sharing your name and its pronunciation! To write "Stephen Brown" in Japanese katakana, you can use: スティーブン ブラウン (Sutīben Buraun). If you prefer "Steve," it’s スティーブ (Sutību).

We hope this helps and brings a smile to your face!


Hi Nicole!

Thank you for the detailed pronunciation! To write "Nicole Chaperon" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ニコール シャペロン (Nikōru Shaperon).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name in Japanese!


Hi Richard!

To write "Richard Laws" in Japanese katakana, you can use: リチャード ローズ (Richādo Rōzu).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name in Japanese characters!


Hi Felicity!

To write "Felicity" in Japanese katakana, you can use: フェリシティ (Ferishiti).

We’re glad to share this with you!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you") ❤️️

Team JapanesePod101.com

JapanesePod101.com Verified
November 19th, 2024 at 03:33 PM
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Hi Kirsti!

To write "Kirsti" (pronounced "khaastiy") in Japanese katakana, you can use: カースティ (Kāsuti).

We hope this helps and brings a bit of joy to your Japanese learning journey!


Hi Andrew!

To write "Andrew Foster" in Japanese katakana, you can use: アンドリュー フォスター (Andoryū Fosutā).

We hope you enjoy using this in your language exchange apps!


Hi Jane!

To write "Jane Cooper" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ジェーン クーパー (Jēn Kūpā).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name written in Japanese!


Hi Nastaran!

What a beautiful and thoughtful description of your name! To write "Nastaran Yarmohammadi" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ナスタラン ヤルモハンマディ (Nasutaran Yarumohammadi).

We hope you enjoy seeing your name in Japanese characters!


Hi Yasmin!

Thank you for sharing the pronunciation details! To write "Yasmin Wenzel" in Japanese katakana, you can use: ヤスミン ヴェンゼル (Yasumin Venzel).

We hope this helps you visualize your name in Japanese!


ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu, "Thank you")😄

Team JapanesePod101.com