Japanese names often carry deep meanings, and many of them are inspired by animals. These names can reflect different traits, characteristics, or qualities associated with specific animals. For example, a name inspired by a tiger might symbolize strength and bravery, while one based on a butterfly could evoke beauty and transformation.
Today, we will look at some fascinating Japanese names that mean animal. Whether you are interested in Japanese culture or looking for a unique name, this list will showcase a variety of options. From common choices to more unusual ones, each name tells its own story and carries special significance.
Japanese Names That Mean Animal
1. Inu
The name Inu means ‘dog’ in Japanese. It symbolizes loyalty and companionship, embodying traits often associated with man’s best friend.
2. Tora
Tora means ‘tiger’ and signifies strength and courage. This name reflects the bold characteristics of a tiger.
3. Usagi
Usagi means ‘rabbit’ and symbolizes gentleness and quickness, representing the traits of this adorable creature.
4. Kawauso
Kawauso translates to ‘otter.’ The name embodies playfulness and intellect, often seen in these energetic animals.
5. Nezumi
Nezumi means ‘mouse’ in Japanese. It can reflect resourcefulness and adaptability, qualities that mice are known for.
6. Umiushi
The name Umiushi means ‘sea cattle’ or ‘manatee.’ It represents gentleness and calmness, similar to the traits exhibited by these marine animals.
7. Kame
Kame means ‘turtle’ and symbolizes longevity and endurance, traits that are significant in Japanese culture.
8. Taka
Taka means ‘hawk.’ It signifies sharp vision and freedom, reflecting the majestic nature of these birds of prey.
9. Risu
Risu means ‘squirrel.’ This name represents playfulness and energy, reflecting the lively behavior of squirrels in nature.
10. Yamauma
Yamauma translates to ‘mountain horse’ or ‘wild horse.’ It symbolizes freedom and grace, characteristics associated with wild horses.
11. Kitsu
Kitsu means ‘fox.’ In Japanese culture, foxes symbolize cunning and intelligence, making this a clever name choice.
12. Sakana
Sakana translates to ‘fish.’ This name evokes fluidity and adaptability, much like fish in their natural environment.
13. Hitsuji
Hitsuji means ‘sheep.’ It represents gentleness and tranquility, characteristics often associated with these peaceful animals.
14. Kiji
Kiji translates to ‘pheasant.’ This name embodies beauty and elegance, reflecting the striking appearance of the bird.
15. Tanuki
Tanuki means ‘raccoon dog.’ In Japanese folklore, tanukis are known for their playful and mischievous nature.
16. Ahiru
Ahiru means ‘duck’ in Japanese. It symbolizes adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits of these birds.
17. Neko
Neko translates to ‘cat.’ Known for independence and mystery, cats are beloved animals in Japanese culture.
18. Saru
Saru means ‘monkey’ and symbolizes intelligence and playful energy, attributing these traits to the name bearer.
19. Hato
Hato means ‘dove.’ It symbolizes peace and harmony, making it a meaningful name for a gentle person.
20. Kaka
Kaka means ‘crow.’ Strongly associated with intelligence and adaptability, this name reflects the clever nature of crows.
21. Tori
Tori means ‘bird.’ This name represents freedom and inspiration, showcasing the beauty of flight in birds.
22. Inoshishi
Inoshishi translates to ‘wild boar.’ It signifies bravery and strength, often found in this formidable creature.
23. Kofu
Kofu means ‘young goat.’ This name embodies playfulness and agility, characteristics of young goats in nature.
24. Koi
Koi means ‘carp.’ This fish symbolizes perseverance and courage, as it is known for swimming upstream.
25. Ushi
Ushi means ‘cow.’ It represents nourishment and strength, highlighting the importance of cattle in agriculture.
26. Yuki
Yuki can mean ‘snow’ but also implies characteristics of ‘deer’ in certain contexts. It signifies grace and elegance.
27. Gato
Gato means ‘cat’ and reflects independence, curiosity, and a playful nature associated with domestic cats.
28. Okami
Okami means ‘wolf.’ It symbolizes strength and loyalty, reflecting the pack behavior of wolves.
29. Numa
Numa means ‘mountain lion.’ This name embodies fierce independence and strength, representing the majestic big cat.
30. Tsubame
Tsubame translates to ‘swallow.’ Known for their swift movements and beauty, swallows represent freedom and grace.
31. Aki
Aki can mean ‘autumn’ but can also mean ‘falcon.’ It symbolizes strength in flight and keen eyesight.
32. Hiro
Hiro means ‘large’ or ‘big,’ sometimes used in relation to elephants, known for their size and intelligence.
33. Mame
Mame means ‘bean,’ but it’s also used as a term for small animals, representing cuteness and smallness in nature.
34. Kamo
Kamo means ‘wild goose.’ It symbolizes freedom and migration, mirroring the seasonal journey of these birds.
35. Akane
Akane means ‘deep red’ but can also be associated with ‘crane,’ symbolizing longevity and happiness in Japanese culture.
36. Mizu
Mizu means ‘water,’ often relating to fish or aquatic life, embodying adaptability and movement.
37. Aho
Aho can have interesting connotations, sometimes alluded to as ‘beast,’ suggesting wildness and untamed nature.
38. Hikan
Hikan means ‘goldfish.’ Goldfish symbolize good fortune and happiness in Japanese culture.
39. Raion
Raion translates to ‘lion.’ It’s a name that symbolizes bravery, courage, and royalty, reflecting the lion’s character.
40. Kitsu
Kitsu meaning ‘fox,’ represents cunningness and quick intelligence. Foxes in folklore are mystical creatures.
41. Tatsu
Tatsu means ‘dragon.’ In Japanese culture, dragons represent strength and protection.
42. Yagi
Yagi means ‘goat.’ It symbolizes balance and sure-footedness, known for their climbing abilities.
43. Tori
Tori means ‘bird’ and stands for freedom and creativity, just like the flight of birds in nature.
44. Shika
Shika means ‘deer’ and symbolizes gentleness and grace, often cherished in Japanese landscapes.
45. Ibis
This name refers to the ibis bird, known for its beauty and gracefulness in water, symbolizing purity.
46. Fukurou
Fukurou means ‘owl.’ It represents wisdom and mystery, embodying the nocturnal nature of owls.
47. Hikkake
Hikkake refers to ‘hummingbird.’ It symbolizes energy and agility, reflecting the bird’s quick and delicate movements.
48. Buta
Buta means ‘pig.’ This name signifies strength and resilience, as pigs are strong and versatile animals.
49. Yado
Yado means ‘guest’ but can be related to ‘animal’ that represents a welcoming trait.
50. Himo
Himo can mean ‘string,’ but also, it may refer to delicate creatures, symbolizing gracefulness in animals.
51. Hono
Hono means ‘flame,’ associated with fireflies which symbolize beauty in the night.
52. Chou
Chou means ‘butterfly.’ It represents change and transformation with its beautiful metamorphosis.
53. Kitsu-ne
Kitsu-ne means ‘fox spirit.’ It symbolizes cunningness, magic, and mystery in folklore tales.
54. Inaka
Inaka means ‘rural area,’ often representing the natural habitat of various animals.
55. Tsuru
Tsuru translates to ‘crane.’ This name embodies elegance and long life, a symbol of good fortune.
56. Shishi
Shishi means ‘lion dog,’ symbolizing protection and a fierce spirit.
57. Kankuro
Kankuro means ‘to carry,’ often associated with a strong animal-like work ethic.
58. Amagoi
Amagoi can symbolize ‘toads,’ which are often considered mystical creatures in folklore.
59. Akiko
Akiko can mean ‘bright child’ but often denotes ‘child-like’ characteristics, like small animals.
60. Kamitsukiyomi
This term references mythical creatures like ‘kitsune,’ known for their fox-like nature.
61. Jyuri
Jyuri means ‘jewel’ and is reminiscent of vibrant, colorful fish and their beauty.
62. Tsumi
Tsumi means ‘sin,’ but also relates to the natural predatory instincts in animals.
63. Yogiri
Yogiri means ‘fog,’ symbolic of creatures like owls that thrive in mystic conditions.
64. Raijin
Raijin refers to ‘thunder god’ but encapsulates the power of animals in nature.
65. Matsu
Matsu means ‘pine tree,’ closely associated with animals that dwell within forests.
66. Kumakichi
Kumakichi symbolizes ‘bear,’ embodying strength and survival instincts.
67. Gumi
Gumi means ‘group,’ often symbolic of animal herding behavior.
68. Tomoe
Tomoe symbolizes balance, often depicted with nature and animals.
69. Seki
Seki means ‘seat’ but can symbolize the presence of animals in someone’s life.
70. Riku
Riku means ‘land’ and often refers to terrestrial animals.
71. Chika
Chika means ‘near,’ which can relate to affectionate animals.
72. Tono
Tono translates to ‘feudal lord,’ symbolizing authority and strength like in animal kingdoms.
73. Toko
Toko means ‘abundant,’ emblematic of the blessings animals bring to lives.
74. Kumo
Kumo means ‘spider,’ often representing cunning and creativity.
75. Suna
Suna means ‘sand,’ home to tiny creatures that thrive in that environment.
76. UO
UO translates to ‘ fish,’ symbolizing life and movement beneath water.
77. Tori-no
Tori-no means ‘bird of.’ This phrase often represents freedom and the charm of nature.
78. Kitsuura
Kitsuura incorporates ‘fox’ associating with creativity and cleverness.
79. Jyun
Jyun means ‘allow,’ often connected with welcoming animals.
80. Hirohime
Hirohime means ‘princess,’ imbibing grace associated with animals.
81. Muneo
Muneo implies protection, symbolizing tender moments with caring animals.
82. Shiro
Shiro means ‘white,’ often linked to purity in pets.
83. Himeka
Himeka means ‘princess,’ resonating with the regal nature of certain animals.
84. Sunae
Sunae means ‘sand,’ home to tiny creatures that thrive in sandy habitats.
85. Kaito
Kaito translates to ‘ocean flying,’ embodying grace in seafaring animals.
86. Yutaka
Yutaka means ‘abundant,’ often symbolic of flourishing animal life.
87. Kyouko
Kyouko means ‘cooperative child,’ symbolizing teams in animal communities.
88. Hayate
Hayate means ‘gale wind,’ suggesting animals like birds that fly on the wind.
89. Kurun
Kurun implies ‘dove,’ often linked to peace and gentleness.
90. Sakae
Sakae means ‘prosperity,’ often reflective of prosperous animal habitats.
91. Aiko
Aiko means ‘beloved child,’ similar to loved pets in households.
92. Kage
Kage means ‘shadow,’ representing elusive or nocturnal creatures.
93. Akira
Akira means ‘bright,’ embodying shining clarity that can describe animal abilities.
94. Daiki
Daiki means ‘great glory,’ symbolizing respect among animal behaviors.
95. Toshin
Toshin means ‘refrigeration,’ often implying coolness and survival like in aquatic life.
96. Takami
Takami means ‘high ridge,’ typically where many wild creatures thrive.
97. Riku
Riku means ‘land,’ symbolizing fur-covered land animals.
98. Kiyoshi
Kiyoshi translates to ‘pure,’ reminding of the beloved purity in animals.
99. Tadao
Tadao means ‘loyal man,’ resonating with the loyalty of dogs.
100. Kohei
Kohei means ‘peace,” often connected to gentle animals.
101. Fuki
Fuki means ‘to blow,’ symbolizing the flight of birds.
102. Naru
Naru means ‘to become,’ relating to growth and transformation like animals.
103. Yoshi
Yoshi means ‘good,’ connected with well-behaved pets.
104. Kaho
Kaho can imply beauty, as animals often showcase impressive visual traits.
105. Katsu
Katsu means ‘to win.’ It reflects strength and agility like in hunting animals.
106. Shouko
Shouko means ‘bright child,’ evoking youthful innocence in animals.
107. Chika
Chika means ‘wisdom,’ often tied to intelligent creatures like dolphins.
108. Yuuma
Yuuma means ‘gentle,’ symbolizing soft animals like rabbits.
109. Rima
Rima means ‘song,’ often related to the harmony of animals.
110. Ranya
Ranya means ‘to soar,’ resonating with eagle-like attributes.
111. Aoi
Aoi means ‘blue,’ often symbolic of aquatic animals.
112. Raito
Raito means ‘light,’ representing creatures like fireflies.
113. Toshio
Toshio translates to ‘man of year,’ associated with mature creatures.
114. Yuuto
Yuuto means ‘gentle,’ symbolizing peace in nature.
115. Raigo
Raigo means ‘thunderlight,’ evoking strength in wildlife.
116. Satsu
Satsu means ‘to kill,’ often linked with predator instincts in animals.
117. Yuma
Yuma translates to ‘abundant,’ reminiscent of forest life.
118. Riku
Riku means ‘land,’ symbolizing fur-covered land animals.
119. Miku
Miku means ‘beautiful sky,’ evoking the viewpoint of soaring birds.
120. Hoshi
Hoshi means ‘star,’ representing creatures that shine bright.
121. Hiroshi
Hiroshi means ‘generous,’ linking with the nurturing aspect of animals.
122. Yusuke
Yusuke means ‘to help,’ related to companion animals.
123. Kazuki
Kazuki translates to ‘harmony,’ symbolizing togetherness in animal packs.
124. Koji
Koji means ‘to rule,’ embodying the authority in animal kingdoms.
125. Juri
Juri means ‘to govern,’ reflecting the leadership in some species.
126. Masaki
Masaki means ‘to become,’ often relating to maturation in animal life.
127. Hayate
Hayate means ‘swift,’ reminiscent of quick animals.
128. Genji
Genji means ‘source,’ referencing natural life that supports ecosystems.
129. Kato
Kato means ‘increase,’ often reflecting growth in animal populations.
130. Kazue
Kazue means ‘harmony,’ embodying balance in animals’ ecosystems.
131. Shiori
Shiori translates to ‘bookmark,’ reminiscent of the guidance in animal movements.
132. Kai
Kai means ‘ocean,’ symbolic of aquatic wildlife.
133. Toshi
Toshi means ‘year,’ representing generational wisdom in animal habits.
134. Setsuko
Setsuko implies ‘child of snow,’ evoking the winter polar bear.
135. Yuya
Yuya means ‘to vanish,’ connecting to elusive creatures.
136. Riku
Riku means ‘land,’ symbolizing earth’s natural creatures.
137. Shun
Shun means ‘to hurry,’ similar to the quick-moving games of animals.
138. Ikuto
Ikuto means ‘to grow,’ reflecting life cycles in nature.
139. Saiga
Saiga refers to ‘antelope,’ symbolizing gracefulness in flight.
140. Ryuu
Ryuu means ‘dragon,’ representing power in the animal kingdom.
141. Jiro
Jiro means ‘second son,’ which is often a common animal name in families.
142. Yoshiyuki
Yoshiyuki means ‘to shine,’ often linked to shiny fish and gliding butterflies.
143. Matori
Matori symbolizes ‘gathering,’ connecting to herd instinct in animals.
144. Suigetsu
Suigetsu means ‘moonlight on water,’ evoking serenity in aquatic life.
145. Kiyu
Kiyu means ‘reason’, indicating the need for survival skills in wildlife.
146. Tsunei
Tsunei represents ‘to sail,’ often connected to migratory birds.
147. Tsubame
Tsubame means ‘swallow,’ embodying freedom and elegant flight.
148. Suzu
Suzu means ‘bell,’ linking to joyful sounds of animal life.
149. Hitoshi
Hitoshi translates to ‘one,’ symbolizing unity in animal families.
150. Korin
Korin means ‘to shine,’ evoking beauty found in nature.
Final Thoughts
Japanese names inspired by animals reflect various characteristics and traits from nature. From strength to agility, these names invoke a deep connection with wildlife, emphasizing the beauty of animals in our lives. Each name encompasses a unique essence and tells a story, waiting to be shared.
Whether you are considering a name for a child or simply interested in Japanese culture, these names symbolize more than just animals; they resonate with traits that we can admire. The wisdom, grace, and loyalty represented in these names open up a world of possibilities.
If you’re intrigued by names that carry meanings, be sure to explore more topics like names that mean animals or even delve into Japanese names that mean fox male for a more specialized look!