Your name in Japanese
Write Your Name in Japanese – Free Katakana Converter
Curious to see how your name looks in Japanese? Use our tool to instantly convert your name into Katakana, the alphabet used in Japan for foreign names.
My Name in Japanese
If you’re searching for my name in Japanese, you’re probably wondering how your own name is written using Japanese characters.
Foreign names are written in Katakana, the Japanese script used for non-Japanese words and names. Our free Katakana converter shows you exactly how your name looks in Japanese, instantly.
Try it now:
What is Katakana?
Katakana (カタカナ) is one of the two main syllabaries in the Japanese writing system. It’s mainly used to write foreign names, international brands, and loanwords. Each symbol represents a sound, making it a phonetic writing system.
For example, “James” becomes ジェームズ and “Olivia” becomes オリビア — the meaning doesn't change, but the pronunciation is faithfully preserved.
Popular examples:
- Emily → エミリー
- James → ジェームズ
- Olivia → オリビア
- Alexander → アレクサンダー
Our converter works with all names — whether they’re English (Liam → リアム), French (Élise → エリーズ), Italian (Giulia → ジュリア), or German (Lukas → ルーカス). No matter your culture, you’ll get an accurate Japanese transcription.
How Do You Translate a Name into Japanese?
Many people search for the translation of their name in Japanese. In reality, foreign names are not translated literally — instead, they are written in Katakana, the Japanese script used for foreign sounds.
This means the “translation” is actually a phonetic transcription. Your name is written according to how it sounds, using the closest Japanese syllables.
If you’re looking to know how your name is written in Japanese, our converter instantly gives you the correct form used in Japan.
📚 From Wikipedia:
Katakana (カタカナ) is one of the two Japanese syllabaries, mainly used to transcribe foreign words, names, onomatopoeia, and scientific terms. Each character corresponds to a syllable in Japanese.
Source: Wikipedia – Katakana
Why Write Your Name in Japanese?
Writing your name in Japanese isn’t just fun — it’s a way to connect with the culture. Whether for a tattoo, a personalized gift, or just curiosity, seeing your name in katakana gives it a unique flair.
It’s also perfect for artists, travelers to Japan, or anyone looking to add a special touch to their identity or creations.
Engrave Your Name in Japanese
Once your name is converted, have it engraved on a personalized Japanese necklace. A meaningful, elegant, and one-of-a-kind gift.
See the personalized jewelryRead more about our story or check out our general FAQ.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write my name in Japanese?
To write your name in Japanese, it is transcribed phonetically using Katakana. Simply enter your name in our Katakana converter to instantly see your name in Japanese.
Is this a translation or a transcription?
This is a phonetic transcription — your name is written based on how it sounds, using Japanese syllables.
Can any name be converted?
Yes, our tool works with all names, including rare or compound names.
How can I be sure it’s accurate?
Every engraving is manually reviewed by our expert. You’ll receive a confirmation email before production to ensure the transcription is correct.
They Loved Seeing Their Name in Japanese
“I got my daughter’s name engraved on a necklace — she loved it! 🥰”
– Emily, USA
“Perfect for my tattoo. The katakana version looks awesome.”
– Jack, UK
“A great tool for Japan lovers. Highly recommended 👍 ”
– Anna, Germany
Glossary of Japanese Terms
- Katakana (カタカナ) – Syllabic script used to write foreign words and names.
- Hiragana (ひらがな) – Script used for native Japanese words.
- Kanji (漢字) – Chinese characters used in Japanese writing.
Most Common Japanese Surnames
Japanese family names often have meanings linked to nature, landscapes, or geographic origins. Here are some of the most common Japanese surnames, along with their kanji and literal meanings.
| Rank | Surname | Kanji | Meaning | Number of Japanese |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Satō | 佐藤 | Supporting wisteria | 1,928,000 |
| 2 | Suzuki | 鈴木 | Bell tree | 1,707,000 |
| 3 | Takahashi | 高橋 | High bridge | 1,416,000 |
| 4 | Tanaka | 田中 | In the middle of the rice field | 1,336,000 |
| 5 | Watanabe | 渡辺 | Crossing the region | 1,134,000 |
| 6 | Itō | 伊藤 | This wisteria | 1,080,000 |
| 7 | Yamamoto | 山本 | Base of the mountain | 1,077,000 |
| 8 | Nakamura | 中村 | Central village | 1,059,000 |
| 9 | Kobayashi | 小林 | Small forest | 1,019,000 |
| 10 | Saitō | 斉藤 | Harmonious wisteria | 980,000 |
In Japanese, the family name always comes first (e.g., Tanaka Hiroshi). If you want to see how your surname or first name looks in Japanese, use our converter at the top of this page.
Have a special request?
Want to engrave something other than a name? Or have a unique design idea?
Feel free to reach out — we can create something 100% custom for you.
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