
It is the fifth most common surname in Japan. The surname Ito was adopted by descendants of Fujiwara no Hidesato, a warrior of the Fujiwara clan descended from Fujiwara no Kamatari (614–69), a senior minister of Emperor Tenji, the 38th emperor. They primarily took the name Ito by combining the first kanji character “伊” … Read More

This is another surname with the same pronunciation but different kanji characters. Unlike the common Yamamoto in Japan (where the second character is “本” meaning “book”), this one uses “元” meaning ‘origin’ or “source.” Its origin is said to be primarily from the area around Okinawa, where the Ryukyu Kingdom once existed, extending to … Read More

Tanaka is the 4th most common Japanese surname in Japan. The etymology is for rice fields and cultivation. The surname “Tanaka” originates from geographical features or place names such as “in the middle of rice fields” or “near rice fields.” It spread widely across Japan, particularly in regions where rice cultivation flourished, resulting in … Read More

This etymology came from India in Buddhism. What used to be called “naraka” in Sanskrit was transcribed and transmitted to China to become “naraku”. In China, Naraka meant an underground prison, so it was omitted and became hell. It is said that the words “hell” and “naraku” were introduced to Japan. Japanese said “Ji … Read More

The name “Otaru” originates from the Ainu word “Otarnai,” meaning “river in the sand,” which was used to describe this area in ancient times. Otaru, one of Japan’s premier tourist cities. Otaru, a beautiful coastal city in Hokkaido. Developed as the “Commercial Capital of the North” since the Meiji era, Otaru boasts numerous retro … Read More

There are two types of kanji for this surname. Their origins seem to differ depending on the era and location. Origin of this surname Originating from Ogata-cho, Bungo-Ono City, Oita Prefecture. A place name recorded during the Nara period. It is said to have begun when Ōmiwa no Yoshiomi entered Ogata-go in 886 (Ninna … Read More

Bovid mammals. Livestock are domesticated goats that live in rocky mountains in West Asia. Similar to sheep, but with long necks and many males and females with horns, males have long-haired tufts on their chin. Generally, the properties are in warm order and form a flock. You can eat foliage and keep it even … Read More
























