Japanese Name Converter to Translate from English to Japanese
This Japanese Name Converter translates any name from English to Japanese. Our generator tool includes first, middle, and surnames.
Japanese version:
Tanaka Hiroshi
tah-NAH-kah hee-ROH-shee
Hiro-chan, Hiro-kun
How it works
Our Japanese Name Converter uses a large language model to translate names between English and Japanese, accounting for kanji selection, pronunciation variations, and cultural considerations.
The tool provides both kanji characters and readings in hiragana/katakana, helping users understand the written and spoken forms of their translated names.
Japanese Naming Conventions
Traditional Japanese names follow a specific structure:
- Family name (姓 sei or 氏 uji)
- Given name (名 mei)
Japanese names are typically written in kanji characters, with each character carrying meaning and multiple possible readings. Names can also be written in hiragana or katakana, particularly for modern or foreign-derived names. The selection of kanji for names must comply with government-approved characters (常用漢字 jōyō kanji and 人名用漢字 jinmeiyō kanji).
Cultural context and history
Japanese names evolved from a complex system of clan names (氏 uji) and personal names during the classical period. Until the Meiji period (1868), common people often didn’t have surnames, and many families adopted their surnames during the modernization of Japan. The current system of family names first, given names second (姓名 seimei) reflects Chinese influence on Japanese culture.
Modern significance
Today, Japanese naming practices balance tradition with contemporary trends. While many parents choose names with traditional kanji and meanings, there’s a growing trend toward unique character combinations and modern interpretations. Understanding Japanese name conventions is crucial for international business, legal documentation, and cultural integration, particularly given the complexity of kanji usage and readings.
Nicknames & diminutives guide
Japanese nicknames often follow predictable patterns:
- Adding “-chan” (ちゃん) for children and female names
- Using “-kun” (くん) for male names, particularly among peers
- Adding “-san” (さん) as a respectful suffix
- Shortening names (Hiroshi → Hiro, Kazuko → Kazu)
- Using “-tan” (たん) as a cute variation of “-chan”
- Creating abbreviated forms of longer names (Yoshimoto → Yoshi)
