Did you ever wonder where Japanese names come from? Well, in Japan, it is actually a common practice that they name their newborn which symbolizes something. To get a grasp on how and why they do it, here is a list of 50 cute Japanese girl names that mean flower, to begin with.
It is said that they do this to honor nature and its beauty. To help you understand more, we’ve scoured the web to provide their meaning, pronunciation, and cultural significance. With that being said, these names do not only have a cool-sounding intonation, but they also hold significant meaning to their livelihood.
Famous Japanese Women with Names Meaning Flowers:
It is not only popular in Japan, but is a trend that is being practiced worldwide. In fact, western culture has hundreds of celebrities named after a flower. With that being said, Japan is no exception. The country is filled with multi-talented and influential women. While some may be only known in their country, some have risen to prominent stardom and are recognized worldwide.
- Yuriko Koike – Yuriko Koike is a former governor of Tokyo who has multiple achievements for the benefit of the people. Her name is derived from the word ‘lily’.
- Ayumi Hamasaki – Ayumi means “sweetfish and beauty,” while Hamasaki means “beach cape” and “blossom,” a combination of two flower-related meanings. Ayumi is a popular Japanese singer and actress.
- Yuri Mitsui – A professional race car driver that is known across the world. She is also an actress and a model. Her name is literally translated to ‘lily.
- Sakura Miyawaki – Sakura Miyawaki is a famous Japanese star that is a member of a famous South Korean girl group known as Le Sserafim. The name ‘Sakura’ literally means “cherry blossom”.
- Rika Kihira – Rika is a professional figure skater with a name that can mean many different things. One meaning is the word ‘fragrance’, which can be roughly translated to a flower.
- Sumire Nakamura – Nakamura is a young Japanese chess player who holds the title of Woman Candidate Master. Her name can be translated into the word ‘violet’, which can also signify humility and modesty.
- Ayaka Kikuchi – If you’re a fan of J-pop, then you probably already heard of the name Ayaka Kikuchi. She was a member of some famous bands under the names of ‘Under Girls’, ‘Team YJ’, and ‘AKB48’. She also starred in some films and joined in on some variety shows. Her name comes from kanji characters that mean ‘colorful’ and ‘flower’.
- Kana Hanazawa – Kana Hanazawa is both an actress and a singer. She also had a prolific voice-acting career in anime. You might think this is crazy but her name also translates to flower. Her name Hanazawa comes from the kanji ‘花’ and ‘沢’, which means ‘flower’, and ‘swam/marsh’, respectively.
- Mao Asada – Mao Asada is a retired Japanese figure skater who won multiple awards with three gold medals in the Olympics under her belt. If you want an athlete for a child, then maybe you might want to consider taking the name for your daughter.
- Ran Mitake – With the increase of popularity of anime across the world, we can’t help but add an influential fictional character named Ran Mitake from the famous BanG Dream series. Her name translates to ‘orchid’ and ‘beautiful’ in Japanese.
40 Japanese Girl Names That Mean Flowers:
Whether it’s the cutesy intonations of a name, its significance in Japanese culture or its cool adaptation to English vocabulary, we have the list just for you.
20 Cute Japanese Girl Names Related to Flowers:
- Ume
Kanji: 梅
Meaning: Japanese Apricot or Plum blossom
Pronunciations: u-meh
Beliefs: The meaning behind the name comes from the word ‘Ume’ itself. It is a representation of the word ‘spring’ and is used to ward against evil. The name may be a cute one to pronounce, but it has a much more powerful meaning attached to it.
- Himawari
Kanji: 向日葵
Meaning: Sunflower
Pronunciations: Hiy-ma-waa-riy
Beliefs: It is said that the name symbolizes confidence and bravery. This comes from the kanji word 向 meaning confront, defy, approach, and face. The name is perfectly represented by Himawari Akaho, a famous basketball star in Japan.
- Azami
Kanji: 薊
Meaning: Thistle flower
Pronunciations: Aa-Zaa-Miy
Beliefs: Besides thistle, the name can also be translated into ‘Word of the heart’. Another translation can mean ‘the greatest’. This can only tell us one thing, and that is the name ‘Azami’ has an excellent character in the Japanese language.
- Shion
Kanji: 紫苑
Meaning: Aster
Pronunciations: Shi-awn
Beliefs: It is believed that the name ‘Shion’ resonates with the words ‘princess’, ‘lady’, and ‘woman’. While the name perfectly suits a baby girl, it also is popularly used among boys.
- Sakura
Kanji: 桜
Meaning: Cherry Blossom
Pronunciation: sa-ku-ra
Beliefs: This is probably one of the most famous Japanese names known across the world. Sakura has been seen and heard in animes, TV shows, Mangas, movies, and even games. It is said that the name symbolizes spring, renewal, and new beginnings in Japanese culture. Although the name Sakura has been used by many to symbolize the traits it represents, some have taken the name just because it sounds cool and simple.
- Hana
Kanji: 花
Meaning: flower
Pronunciation: ha-na
Beliefs: Have you ever heard the titles ‘Hana Yori Dango’ or ‘Aku no Hana’? Well, now that you have, these titles have flowers in them, and they both are distinguished TV series. This just goes to show how popular the word is, yet it still is being used by many.
- Ran
Kanji: 蘭
Meaning: orchid
Pronunciation: ra-n
Beliefs: The name Ran is undeniably a simple, yet beautiful name that directly means “orchid” in Japanese. Orchids have different representations in Japanese culture, and a few notable ones are ‘elegance’, ‘refinement’, and ‘good luck’. This is also the reason why some orchids were kept in temples and other significant establishments.
- Ayame
Kanji: 菖蒲
Meaning: iris
Pronunciation: a-ya-me
Beliefs: Iris flower is said to represent hope, promise, wisdom, and admiration, just to name a few. In other cultures, it is used to symbolize strength and clarity. Nevertheless, the characteristics the name ‘Ayame’ carries are impressive, and could also be the reason why most anime characters adopted the name.
- Yuriko
Kanji: 百合子
Meaning: lily
Pronunciation: yu-ri-ko
Beliefs: Yuriko is a popular name in Japan and has many different meanings depending on how it is used. The name however is translated as ‘Lilies’ originally and is a symbol of purity, innocence, and beauty in Japanese culture.
- Kanna
Kanji: 神無月
Meaning: flowering tree in October
Pronunciation: kan-na
Beliefs: Kanna is a unique and beautiful name that directly means “flowering tree in October” in Japanese. The name is associated with the autumn season and symbolizes the beauty of nature. If you feel nature is a big part of your life, then taking the name Kanna for your baby girl might be a good choice.
- Ayumi
Kanji: 歩美
Meaning: sweetfish and beauty
Pronunciation: a-yu-mi
Beliefs: The name Ayumi is known to be associated with nature’s beauty and symbolizes the connection between humans and the natural world. Naming your child Ayumi could signify your appreciation for nature and your hopes for your child’s beauty and grace.
- Sumire
Kanji: 菫
Meaning: violet
Pronunciation: su-mi-re
Beliefs: Sumire is a beautiful name that directly means “violet” in Japanese. Violets are a symbol of modesty, faithfulness, and love in Japanese culture. There’s nothing simple about the name ‘Sumire’, and no matter what your reason for taking the name, it will surely turn heads when they hear the name.
- Tsubaki
Kanji: 椿
Meaning: camellia
Pronunciation: tsu-ba-ki
Beliefs: The flower that the name is associated to is said to symbolize love, affection, and gratitude. Other than that, it is a name that is not often heard, even in Japan. That means the name is up for grabs for uniqueness and significance.
- Ren
Kanji: 蓮
Meaning: lotus
Pronunciation: re-n
Beliefs: Taking the name ‘Ren’ means inspiring your baby to blossom every day, while still remembering where she came from. If you didn’t know by now, knowing and respecting one’s roots is a favorable characteristic for a person.
- Momo
Kanji: 桃
Meaning: peach
Pronunciation: mo-mo
Beliefs: Who doesn’t like the name ‘Peach’, really? Moreover, it is a symbol of longevity, happiness, and good luck in Japanese culture. According to Japanese legend, the name Momo was a demon that has the power of a genie, granting wishes. If that doesn’t catch your attention, then maybe nothing will.
- Renka
Kanji: 蓮花
Meaning: lotus flower
Pronunciation: ren-ka
Beliefs: There are those few selections that you almost always remember when it comes to names. Renka is just one of those names. It is simple, yet holds a deeper meaning such as purity, enlightenment, and new beginnings. It’s definitely one of the favorites out there.
- Fuyumi
Kanji: 冬美
Meaning: winter beauty
Pronunciation: fu-yu-mi
Beliefs: The name Fuyumi is such a feminine name that it exudes beauty and elegance. In fact, the name literally means ‘beauty’, which is a perfect fit. You might read or hear the name a few times from TV shows and films, but that doesn’t mean it’s overused.
- Kikyo
Kanji: 桔梗
Meaning: bellflower
Pronunciation: ki-kyo
Beliefs: Humility, gratitude, and sincerity are what you can expect from the name ‘Kikyo’. Not only is the name unique and pleasant to hear, but it also has some deep history within the Japanese culture. If symbolism is something that you feel is important to someone’s name, then this may be the name you’ve been looking for.
- Sumika
Kanji: 澄花
Meaning: clear flower
Pronunciation: su-mi-ka
Beliefs: Sumika is one of the more common names in Japan, but still holds a deeper meaning. The name actually has multiple symbolism, and these are ‘magnificent’, ‘beautiful’, ‘distinguished’, and ‘flourishing’. Take your pick, you definitely can’t go wrong with any of them.
- Kozue
Kanji: 梢
Meaning: treetops
Pronunciation: ko-zu-e
Beliefs: Kozue is actually a gender-neutral name, but nevertheless, sounds charming and cheerful either way. The name is known to represent the words ‘affection’ and ‘romance’. With that being said, your daughter can grow up as a romantic when taking it for themselves. Nothing wrong with that if you ask me.
10 Uncommon Japanese Flower Names for Girls with Meaning:
- Hikari
Kanji: 光
Meaning: Light and flower
Pronunciation: Hee-ka-ree
Beliefs: Radiance, brightness, and illumination. These are the words that best describe the name ‘Hikari’. It is said that the name conveys a highly charged personality, and come to think about it, it somehow reflects its literal meaning.
- Satsuki
Kanji: 皐
Meaning: May flower
Pronunciation: Sat-soo-kee
Beliefs: In Japanese culture, the name ‘Satsuki’ represents the ‘early moon’ or the ‘5th month’. As you may know, the 5th month is ‘May’, which sometimes can be referred to as the flower. While it does have multiple meanings and translations, it doesn’t change the fact that the name is attractive.
- Tsukiko
Kanji: 月子
Meaning: Moon and flower
Pronunciation: Tsuw-kiy-kow
Beliefs: While the name Tuskiko generally means ‘moon’ and ‘child’, there are other variations in kanji that can be associated with flowers. It is said it signifies one’s ‘heart’s desire’ and ‘destiny’. But seeing how it’s unique and how beautiful it sounds, some people don’t really care what they symbolize and mean.
- Manami
Kanji: 愛美
Meaning: Love, beauty, and flower
Pronunciation: Ma-na-mee
Beliefs: Just by looking at the multiple meanings of the word ‘Manami’, one might instantly fall in love with the name. Not only does it sound good, but it also has symbolic meanings that one can relate to.
- Ayaka
Kanji: 綾香
Meaning: design and fragrance
Pronunciation: a-ya-ka
Beliefs: Ayaka is a unique and beautiful name that directly means “design and fragrance” in Japanese. The name signifies a sense of elegance, creativity, and beauty.
- Yuri
Kanji: 百合
Meaning: lily
Pronunciation: yu-ri
Beliefs: The word ‘Yuri’ is one of Japanese more treasured names. It is a timeless one that has existed for centuries and has been used throughout different media platforms. The name is so popular that it still is being used to this day.
- Kiku
Kanji: 菊
Meaning: chrysanthemum
Pronunciation: ki-ku
Beliefs: The name ‘Kiku’ is a name that has crossed overseas and reached other countries. It has multiple derivations such as ‘Kiko’, ‘Keiko’ and a lot more others. While it signifies ‘Joy and Happiness’ in Japanese culture, other cultures know it as a symbol of ‘hope’. No matter which country you pick, it has a significant meaning that parents can be proud of.
- Mikan
Kanji: 蜜柑
Meaning: mandarin orange
Pronunciation: mi-kan
Beliefs: Mikan is a unique and charming name that directly means “mandarin orange” in Japanese. Mandarin oranges are a symbol of good fortune, happiness, and prosperity in Japanese culture. Naming your child Mikan could signify your hopes for your child to have a prosperous and fortunate life.
- Botan
Kanji:牡丹
Meaning: peony
Pronunciation: bo-tan
Beliefs: Botan is a beautiful and unique name that directly means “peony” in Japanese. Peonies are a symbol of wealth, honor, and romance in Japanese culture. Naming your child Botan could signify your hopes for your child to have these qualities.
- Kanon
Kanji: 花音
Meaning: Flower Blossom
Pronunciation: kah-nohn
Beliefs: Aside from its flower meaning, there are other Kanji variations of the word ‘Kanon’. Some of them may mean elegance or grace, while some can mean peace and calm. Whatever interpretations you might prefer, you can go no wrong with this name.
These uncommon Japanese flower names offer a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for a name that stands out. Each name carries its own cultural significance and symbolism, making them more than just a simple name.

10 Japanese-English Baby Names for Girls That Mean Flower:
- Kaede
Kanji: 楓
Meaning: maple leaf
Pronunciation: ka-e-de
Beliefs: If you’re looking for an unusual name that means flower, then you might want to consider the name ‘Kaede’. Coming from the word ‘maple leaf’, it symbolizes peace, harmony and tranquillity. For years, it has been gaining popularity due to its adaptation in animes and mangas.
- Kokoro
Kanji: 心秀
Meaning: heart
Pronunciation: ko-ko-ro
Beliefs: There have been a lot of characters in films and TV shows that embraced the name Kokoro, and some are still using it to this day. It is a testament to how meaningful the name is and how good it sounds. Not only that, but it also is simple enough that it can easily be remembered. Its association with flowers may have come from the Kanji variation 秀, which could also mean ‘blooming’ or ‘sprouting’.
- Kanna
Kanji: 環
Meaning: canna lily
Pronunciation: kan-na
Beliefs: There are a lot of Kanji variations for this one, but the most popular one is ‘lily’. There are different symbolisms from other cultures, especially the name is particularly a famous one, but in Japanese culture, it conveys the word ‘harmony’.
- Lily
Kanji: 里來
Meaning: lily
Pronunciation: li-ri
Beliefs: The name evidently means a certain type of flower, making it simple, yet at the same time, elegant. As most Japanese flower names symbolize beauty and peace, this one is no exception. Not only is it a popular name in Japan, but it also is popular in Western communities.
- Rena
Kanji: 玲奈
Meaning: lotus
Pronunciation: re-na
Beliefs: With a definition of literally a flower lotus, there’s not much you can expect from the name, except its symbolism that conveys beauty and reborn. Depending on its Kanji translations, there is other symbolism that can be taken from the name.
- Aya
Kanji: 綾
Meaning: colorful, design
Pronunciation: a-ya
Beliefs: Aya is a beautiful and popular name that indirectly means “flower” in Japanese. The name signifies beauty, creativity, and elegance.
- Yurika
Kanji: 由莉香
Meaning: lily and fragrance
Pronunciation: yu-ri-ka
Beliefs: One of Japan’s unique names that symbolize yet again the word ‘beauty’, except this time it also means just and generous. Depending on how you want to translate the name, you can have different meanings that would suit your taste.
- Sumika
Kanji:
Meaning: quiet flower
Pronunciation: su-mi-ka
Beliefs: Sumika may sound familiar to you if you are a fan of Japanese culture since it is a popular one. It is regularly used as a TV character or in films that usually portray someone who supports the protagonist. It somehow is fitting since the name can also mean radiance and light.
- Kiri
Kanji: 喜
Meaning: misty, foggy
Pronunciation: ki-ri
Beliefs: Kiri is a beautiful and unique name that indirectly means “flower” in Japanese. The name signifies mystery, beauty, and elegance.
- Rina
Kanji: 里奈
Meaning: jasmine
Pronunciation: ri-na
Beliefs: Knowing that the flower ‘jasmine’ symbolizes ‘sensuality’, it is one of the more popular names that are taken due to its femininity. In Japanese culture, it is a well-known symbol of good luck, innocence and purity. A perfect set of representations to describe feminine.
Other Ways to Incorporate Flower Names into Japanese Girl Names:
Combining names in Japan is common practice. You can do the same and use flower names as a component in compound names. You can do it pretty much to all kinds of words, and not just flowers.
Compound names that include flower names as a component: By incorporating the word Hana (Flower) with Yumi (Beauty), you will get a result of Hanayumi, which then translates to a ‘beautiful flower. This method allows for more creativity and flexibility in naming a child while still incorporating the beauty and symbolism of flower names.
Using flower names as inspiration for creating unique and meaningful names: You can get ideas by learning what a word symbolizes and combining it with a word that you chose. It may be a little hard on your first try, but you will get the hang of it. The results are surprisingly wonderful.
How to Choose a Japanese Name Meaning Flowers:
Here are some tips to get you through your search for Japanese names that mean flower.
- The first thing about a name is the sound and how pleasant and appealing it is to our ears. It would also be good if the name can easily be remembered because let’s face it, we don’t want to have names that are easily forgotten.
- The meaning is given when pertaining to Japanese names. They have a lot of definitions, explanations, and symbolism in their names.
- Cultural significance is important because it reflects the cultural context and history behind the name.
You should take note of which websites, books or articles to use since a lot of them out there are simply click baits.
- There are a lot of Japanese baby name books out there that can be bought online. Not only will it tell you the origin and meaning, it also tells you the symbolism behind it.
- You can also check Japanese language and culture websites, such as JapanTalk or Tofugu. These sources can help provide you with in-depth information regarding names.
- If you want to dig deeper, you could also consult an expert on the language and learn how it originated and the history behind the name. It is a lot of work, however, but we’re sure it will be worth your while.
Final Thoughts:
When taking a name’s Kanji form, you will notice that it can mean different things with different symbolisms. So with that being said, before taking a Japanese name for your own child, it might be a good idea to learn about its origin and symbolism first to have at least an idea of how the name came to life.
With our list of 50 cute Japanese girl names as an inspiration, we’re confident that you’ll be able to pick one that is perfectly suitable for your baby daughter. If not, at least have an idea of your next step in your search for these names.