500+ Japanese Names That Start With L — Boys, Girls and Unisex
Japanese names that start with L sit at a fascinating crossroads of culture, phonetics, and global creativity. Since the Japanese language uses an R sound rather than L, every name in this collection is rooted in authentic Japanese names beginning with R, adapted into L-style spellings loved by parents, writers, and name enthusiasts worldwide.
The beauty of these names lies in their layered meanings. Each one draws from kanji characters tied to nature, virtue, and beauty, giving a child not just a name but a cultural story. Whether you are drawn to soft floral names, bold warrior names, or poetic unisex choices, this guide covers them all, with kanji, pronunciation, and meaning for every entry.
Top 10 Japanese Names Starting With L — Quick Picks
Japanese Boy Names That Start With L
Japanese boy names adapted to L carry strength, nature symbolism, and classical virtue. Most originate from R-initial names rooted in samurai tradition, Shinto mythology, and poetic imagery. If you love strong Japanese boy names, you will find many more among our Japanese boy names with meanings collection.
- Laiden
Meaning: God of thunder
Pronunciation: Lai-den
Kanji: 雷電 - Laito
Meaning: One who arrives, light
Pronunciation: Lai-toh
Kanji: 来人 - Laiki
Meaning: Divine energy
Pronunciation: Lai-kee
Kanji: 雷気 - Lairen
Meaning: Thunder lotus
Pronunciation: Lai-ren
Kanji: 雷蓮 - Laiga
Meaning: Thunder fang
Pronunciation: Lai-gah
Kanji: 雷牙 - Laima
Meaning: Thunder horse
Pronunciation: Lai-mah
Kanji: 雷馬 - Laizen
Meaning: Thunder meditation
Pronunciation: Lai-zen
Kanji: 雷禅 - Laiji
Meaning: Thunder child
Pronunciation: Lai-jee
Kanji: 雷児 - Laikuto
Meaning: Music person
Pronunciation: Lai-koo-toh
Kanji: 楽人 - Lakei
Meaning: Wise respect
Pronunciation: Rah-kay
Kanji: 礼敬 - Liku
Meaning: Land, shore
Pronunciation: Lee-koo
Kanji: 陸 - Likuto
Meaning: Land person
Pronunciation: Lee-koo-toh
Kanji: 陸人 - Likuma
Meaning: Land horse
Pronunciation: Lee-koo-mah
Kanji: 陸馬 - Likuya
Meaning: Land arrow
Pronunciation: Lee-koo-yah
Kanji: 陸哉 - Lyuu
Meaning: Dragon
Pronunciation: Lyoo
Kanji: 龍 - Lyuusei
Meaning: Dragon star
Pronunciation: Lyoo-say
Kanji: 龍星 - Lyuuto
Meaning: Dragon person
Pronunciation: Lyoo-toh
Kanji: 龍人 - Lyuuma
Meaning: Dragon horse
Pronunciation: Lyoo-mah
Kanji: 龍馬 - Lyuuki
Meaning: Dragon radiance
Pronunciation: Lyoo-kee
Kanji: 龍輝 - Lyuunosuke
Meaning: Dragon aide
Pronunciation: Lyoo-no-soo-keh
Kanji: 龍之介 - Lyuuichi
Meaning: Dragon first son
Pronunciation: Lyoo-ee-chee
Kanji: 龍一 - Loki
Meaning: Good fortune, tree
Pronunciation: Loh-kee
Kanji: 楽樹 - Lokito
Meaning: Joyful person
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-toh
Kanji: 楽人 - Lota
Meaning: Thick, prosperous
Pronunciation: Loh-tah
Kanji: 朗太 - Lotaro
Meaning: Bright first son
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-roh
Kanji: 朗太郎 - Lokuro
Meaning: Sixth son
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh
Kanji: 六郎 - Lokusei
Meaning: Sixth star
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-say
Kanji: 六星 - Loren
Meaning: Lotus link
Pronunciation: Loh-ren
Kanji: 蓮 - Lorento
Meaning: Lotus path
Pronunciation: Loh-ren-toh
Kanji: 蓮人 - Loreki
Meaning: Lotus radiance
Pronunciation: Loh-reh-kee
Kanji: 蓮輝 - Loshiro
Meaning: Bright white
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh
Kanji: 朗白 - Losuke
Meaning: Bright aide
Pronunciation: Loh-soo-keh
Kanji: 朗介 - Lota
Meaning: Large and prosperous
Pronunciation: Loh-tah
Kanji: 楼大 - Laishi
Meaning: Thunder warrior
Pronunciation: Lai-shee
Kanji: 雷士 - Laidan
Meaning: Thunder path
Pronunciation: Lai-dahn
Kanji: 雷段 - Lairiku
Meaning: Thunder land
Pronunciation: Lai-ree-koo
Kanji: 雷陸 - Laikyo
Meaning: Thunder capital
Pronunciation: Lai-kyoh
Kanji: 雷京 - Laizo
Meaning: Thunder third
Pronunciation: Lai-zoh
Kanji: 雷三 - Laijiro
Meaning: Thunder second son
Pronunciation: Lai-jee-roh
Kanji: 雷二郎 - Laikiro
Meaning: Thunder son
Pronunciation: Lai-kee-roh
Kanji: 雷郎 - Laisei
Meaning: Thunder star
Pronunciation: Lai-say
Kanji: 雷星 - Laita
Meaning: Thunder, large
Pronunciation: Lai-tah
Kanji: 雷大 - Laiken
Meaning: Thunder sword
Pronunciation: Lai-ken
Kanji: 雷剣 - Laiko
Meaning: Thunder lake
Pronunciation: Lai-koh
Kanji: 雷湖 - Laikei
Meaning: Thunder celebration
Pronunciation: Lai-kay
Kanji: 雷慶 - Laikuro
Meaning: Thunder ninth
Pronunciation: Lai-koo-roh
Kanji: 雷九郎 - Laihachi
Meaning: Thunder eight
Pronunciation: Lai-hah-chee
Kanji: 雷八 - Laishiro
Meaning: Thunder white
Pronunciation: Lai-shee-roh
Kanji: 雷白 - Laifuku
Meaning: Thunder fortune
Pronunciation: Lai-foo-koo
Kanji: 雷福 - Laigetsu
Meaning: Thunder moon
Pronunciation: Lai-geh-tsoo
Kanji: 雷月 - Laikaze
Meaning: Thunder wind
Pronunciation: Lai-kah-zeh
Kanji: 雷風 - Laihoshi
Meaning: Thunder star
Pronunciation: Lai-hoh-shee
Kanji: 雷星 - Laishin
Meaning: Thunder mind
Pronunciation: Lai-sheen
Kanji: 雷心 - Laikawa
Meaning: Thunder river
Pronunciation: Lai-kah-wah
Kanji: 雷川 - Laiyama
Meaning: Thunder mountain
Pronunciation: Lai-yah-mah
Kanji: 雷山 - Laishuu
Meaning: Thunder autumn
Pronunciation: Lai-shoo
Kanji: 雷秋 - Laiharu
Meaning: Thunder spring
Pronunciation: Lai-hah-roo
Kanji: 雷春 - Laifuji
Meaning: Thunder wisteria
Pronunciation: Lai-foo-jee
Kanji: 雷藤 - Laisora
Meaning: Thunder sky
Pronunciation: Lai-soh-rah
Kanji: 雷空 - Laikumo
Meaning: Thunder cloud
Pronunciation: Lai-koo-moh
Kanji: 雷雲 - Laihana
Meaning: Thunder flower
Pronunciation: Lai-hah-nah
Kanji: 雷花 - Laikuni
Meaning: Thunder nation
Pronunciation: Lai-koo-nee
Kanji: 雷国 - Laino
Meaning: Thunder field
Pronunciation: Lai-noh
Kanji: 雷野 - Laiumi
Meaning: Thunder sea
Pronunciation: Lai-oo-mee
Kanji: 雷海 - Laimori
Meaning: Thunder forest
Pronunciation: Lai-moh-ree
Kanji: 雷森 - Laiiwa
Meaning: Thunder rock
Pronunciation: Lai-ee-wah
Kanji: 雷岩 - Laikoku
Meaning: Thunder black
Pronunciation: Lai-koh-koo
Kanji: 雷黒 - Laisou
Meaning: Thunder concept
Pronunciation: Lai-soh
Kanji: 雷想 - Laitora
Meaning: Thunder tiger
Pronunciation: Lai-toh-rah
Kanji: 雷虎 - Laiwashi
Meaning: Thunder eagle
Pronunciation: Lai-wah-shee
Kanji: 雷鷲 - Lairyuu
Meaning: Thunder dragon
Pronunciation: Lai-ryoo
Kanji: 雷龍 - Laiou
Meaning: Thunder king
Pronunciation: Lai-oh
Kanji: 雷王 - Laishou
Meaning: Thunder general
Pronunciation: Lai-shoh
Kanji: 雷将 - Laiyuu
Meaning: Thunder courage
Pronunciation: Lai-yoo
Kanji: 雷勇 - Laibu
Meaning: Thunder warrior
Pronunciation: Lai-boo
Kanji: 雷武 - Laisamu
Meaning: Thunder cold
Pronunciation: Lai-sah-moo
Kanji: 雷寒 - Laion
Meaning: Thunder sound
Pronunciation: Lai-on
Kanji: 雷音 - Laikei
Meaning: Thunder respect
Pronunciation: Lai-kay
Kanji: 雷敬 - Lairan
Meaning: Thunder orchid
Pronunciation: Lai-rahn
Kanji: 雷蘭 - Laihei
Meaning: Thunder peace
Pronunciation: Lai-hay
Kanji: 雷平 - Laiwa
Meaning: Thunder harmony
Pronunciation: Lai-wah
Kanji: 雷和 - Laimei
Meaning: Thunder bright
Pronunciation: Lai-may
Kanji: 雷明 - Laichi
Meaning: Thunder wisdom
Pronunciation: Lai-chee
Kanji: 雷知 - Laiko
Meaning: Thunder child
Pronunciation: Lai-koh
Kanji: 雷子 - Laiyu
Meaning: Thunder gentleness
Pronunciation: Lai-yoo
Kanji: 雷優 - Laian
Meaning: Thunder peaceful
Pronunciation: Lai-ahn
Kanji: 雷安 - Laishin
Meaning: Thunder faith
Pronunciation: Lai-sheen
Kanji: 雷信 - Lairen
Meaning: Thunder bond
Pronunciation: Lai-ren
Kanji: 雷縁 - Laikoh
Meaning: Thunder light
Pronunciation: Lai-koh
Kanji: 雷光 - Lyuushin
Meaning: Dragon heart
Pronunciation: Lyoo-sheen
Kanji: 龍心 - Lyuuken
Meaning: Dragon sword
Pronunciation: Lyoo-ken
Kanji: 龍剣 - Lyuuou
Meaning: Dragon king
Pronunciation: Lyoo-oh
Kanji: 龍王 - Lyuuzan
Meaning: Dragon mountain
Pronunciation: Lyoo-zahn
Kanji: 龍山 - Lyuuha
Meaning: Dragon wave
Pronunciation: Lyoo-hah
Kanji: 龍波 - Lyuuhi
Meaning: Dragon fire
Pronunciation: Lyoo-hee
Kanji: 龍火 - Lyuuhana
Meaning: Dragon flower
Pronunciation: Lyoo-hah-nah
Kanji: 龍花 - Lyuukaze
Meaning: Dragon wind
Pronunciation: Lyoo-kah-zeh
Kanji: 龍風 - Lyuusora
Meaning: Dragon sky
Pronunciation: Lyoo-soh-rah
Kanji: 龍空 - Lyuugawa
Meaning: Dragon river
Pronunciation: Lyoo-gah-wah
Kanji: 龍川
Japanese boy names built on thunder (雷/Rai) and dragon (龍/Ryuu) kanji reflect the classical warrior aesthetic of feudal Japan, where strength and nature were seen as inseparable virtues in a man’s character.
Japanese Girl Names That Start With L
Girl names adapted to start with L carry the hallmark softness of Japanese feminine naming: jasmine, blossom, snow, and grace. These names are drawn from R-initial originals and paired with the kanji that best preserve their meaning. You can explore even more floral and poetic options in our guide to Japanese names that mean flower.
- Lina
Meaning: Jasmine, village
Pronunciation: LEE-nah
Kanji: 里奈 - Liko
Meaning: Jasmine child
Pronunciation: LEE-koh
Kanji: 莉子 - Lumi
Meaning: Lapis lazuli beauty
Pronunciation: LOO-mee
Kanji: 瑠美 - Lika
Meaning: Fragrant flower
Pronunciation: LEE-kah
Kanji: 莉花 - Lia
Meaning: Gentle beauty
Pronunciation: LEE-ah
Kanji: 莉愛 - Lena
Meaning: Graceful, honored
Pronunciation: LEH-nah
Kanji: 礼奈 - Lana
Meaning: Orchid
Pronunciation: LAH-nah
Kanji: 蘭 - Liharu
Meaning: Spring jasmine
Pronunciation: LEE-hah-roo
Kanji: 莉春 - Liyuki
Meaning: Gentle snow
Pronunciation: LEE-yoo-kee
Kanji: 莉雪 - Lime
Meaning: Pure bud
Pronunciation: LEE-meh
Kanji: 莉芽 - Lihana
Meaning: Flower of love
Pronunciation: LEE-hah-nah
Kanji: 莉花菜 - Liori
Meaning: Weaving jasmine
Pronunciation: LEE-oh-ree
Kanji: 莉織 - Liena
Meaning: Blooming grace
Pronunciation: LEE-eh-nah
Kanji: 莉恵奈 - Lihime
Meaning: Jasmine princess
Pronunciation: LEE-hee-meh
Kanji: 莉姫 - Lihona
Meaning: Bright harmony
Pronunciation: LEE-hoh-nah
Kanji: 莉穂菜 - Liriko
Meaning: Child of melody
Pronunciation: LEE-ree-koh
Kanji: 莉里子 - Litsumi
Meaning: Clear beauty
Pronunciation: LEE-tsoo-mee
Kanji: 莉澄美 - Lise
Meaning: Truthful blossom
Pronunciation: LEE-seh
Kanji: 莉清 - Liana
Meaning: Graceful child
Pronunciation: LEE-ah-nah
Kanji: 莉杏 - Lemi
Meaning: Shining beauty
Pronunciation: LEH-mee
Kanji: 煌美 - Lako
Meaning: Child of happiness
Pronunciation: LAH-koh
Kanji: 楽子 - Lekko
Meaning: Joyful light
Pronunciation: LEK-koh
Kanji: 楽光 - Lumiya
Meaning: Lapis shrine
Pronunciation: LOO-mee-yah
Kanji: 瑠宮 - Lumu
Meaning: Lapis sea
Pronunciation: LOO-moo
Kanji: 瑠海 - Lumiko
Meaning: Lapis child
Pronunciation: LOO-mee-koh
Kanji: 瑠美子 - Lumina
Meaning: Lapis flower
Pronunciation: LOO-mee-nah
Kanji: 瑠美奈 - Lumiha
Meaning: Lapis wave
Pronunciation: LOO-mee-hah
Kanji: 瑠美波 - Lona
Meaning: Lotus field
Pronunciation: LOH-nah
Kanji: 蓮野 - Loriko
Meaning: Lotus child
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-koh
Kanji: 蓮里子 - Lorimi
Meaning: Lotus beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-mee
Kanji: 蓮美 - Lorihan
Meaning: Lotus flower
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-hahn
Kanji: 蓮花 - Loriha
Meaning: Lotus wave
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-hah
Kanji: 蓮波 - Lono
Meaning: Bright field
Pronunciation: LOH-noh
Kanji: 朗野 - Lomi
Meaning: Bright beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-mee
Kanji: 朗美 - Lonami
Meaning: Bright wave
Pronunciation: LOH-nah-mee
Kanji: 朗波 - Lonaho
Meaning: Bright sail
Pronunciation: LOH-nah-hoh
Kanji: 朗帆 - Lorika
Meaning: Bright flower
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-kah
Kanji: 朗花 - Loriko
Meaning: Bright child
Pronunciation: LOH-ree-koh
Kanji: 朗子 - Lokimi
Meaning: Joy beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-mee
Kanji: 楽美 - Lokina
Meaning: Joy flower
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-nah
Kanji: 楽花 - Lokiko
Meaning: Joy child
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-koh
Kanji: 楽子 - Lokiha
Meaning: Joy wave
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-hah
Kanji: 楽波 - Lokiyo
Meaning: Joy generation
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-yoh
Kanji: 楽代 - Lokiori
Meaning: Joy weave
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-oh-ree
Kanji: 楽織 - Loharu
Meaning: Bright spring
Pronunciation: LOH-hah-roo
Kanji: 朗春 - Lofuyu
Meaning: Bright winter
Pronunciation: LOH-foo-yoo
Kanji: 朗冬 - Lofumi
Meaning: Bright sentence
Pronunciation: LOH-foo-mee
Kanji: 朗文 - Lohanami
Meaning: Bright flower wave
Pronunciation: LOH-hah-nah-mee
Kanji: 朗花波 - Lohoshi
Meaning: Bright star
Pronunciation: LOH-hoh-shee
Kanji: 朗星 - Lomichi
Meaning: Bright path
Pronunciation: LOH-mee-chee
Kanji: 朗道 - Lohana
Meaning: Bright flower
Pronunciation: LOH-hah-nah
Kanji: 朗花 - Lohime
Meaning: Bright princess
Pronunciation: LOH-hee-meh
Kanji: 朗姫 - Lonobu
Meaning: Bright faith
Pronunciation: LOH-noh-boo
Kanji: 朗信 - Lokage
Meaning: Bright shadow
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-geh
Kanji: 朗陰 - Lotsuki
Meaning: Bright moon
Pronunciation: LOH-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 朗月 - Loran
Meaning: Orchid bloom
Pronunciation: LOH-rahn
Kanji: 蘭 - Lorana
Meaning: Orchid flower
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nah
Kanji: 蘭花 - Loraniko
Meaning: Orchid child
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nee-koh
Kanji: 蘭子 - Loranimi
Meaning: Orchid beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nee-mee
Kanji: 蘭美 - Loraniha
Meaning: Orchid wave
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nee-hah
Kanji: 蘭波 - Loraniharu
Meaning: Orchid spring
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nee-hah-roo
Kanji: 蘭春 - Limoha
Meaning: Bud wave
Pronunciation: LEE-moh-hah
Kanji: 莉芽波 - Limoko
Meaning: Bud lake
Pronunciation: LEE-moh-koh
Kanji: 莉芽子 - Limoka
Meaning: Bud flower
Pronunciation: LEE-moh-kah
Kanji: 莉芽花 - Limotsuki
Meaning: Bud moon
Pronunciation: LEE-moh-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉芽月 - Lihoshi
Meaning: Jasmine star
Pronunciation: LEE-hoh-shee
Kanji: 莉星 - Litsuka
Meaning: Clear fragrance
Pronunciation: LEE-tsoo-kah
Kanji: 莉香 - Litsubana
Meaning: Clear flower
Pronunciation: LEE-tsoo-bah-nah
Kanji: 莉花 - Liori
Meaning: Jasmine weave
Pronunciation: LEE-oh-ree
Kanji: 莉織 - Litsumi
Meaning: Clear beauty
Pronunciation: LEE-tsoo-mee
Kanji: 莉澄 - Litsuho
Meaning: Clear sail
Pronunciation: LEE-tsoo-hoh
Kanji: 莉帆 - Lihanami
Meaning: Jasmine wave
Pronunciation: LEE-hah-nah-mee
Kanji: 莉波 - Liharutsuki
Meaning: Spring moon jasmine
Pronunciation: LEE-hah-roo-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉春月 - Liharuha
Meaning: Spring wave jasmine
Pronunciation: LEE-hah-roo-hah
Kanji: 莉春波 - Lihoshiko
Meaning: Star child jasmine
Pronunciation: LEE-hoh-shee-koh
Kanji: 莉星子 - Linao
Meaning: Jasmine wave
Pronunciation: LEE-nah-oh
Kanji: 莉波 - Linaho
Meaning: Jasmine sail
Pronunciation: LEE-nah-hoh
Kanji: 莉帆 - Linami
Meaning: Jasmine beauty
Pronunciation: LEE-nah-mee
Kanji: 莉波美 - Linaha
Meaning: Jasmine wave bloom
Pronunciation: LEE-nah-hah
Kanji: 莉花波 - Linatsuki
Meaning: Jasmine moon
Pronunciation: LEE-nah-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉月 - Lihoshina
Meaning: Jasmine star flower
Pronunciation: LEE-hoh-shee-nah
Kanji: 莉星花 - Linori
Meaning: Jasmine weave
Pronunciation: LEE-noh-ree
Kanji: 莉織 - Linohana
Meaning: Jasmine blossom
Pronunciation: LEE-noh-hah-nah
Kanji: 莉野花 - Likotsuki
Meaning: Jasmine moon child
Pronunciation: LEE-koh-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉子月 - Likohoshi
Meaning: Jasmine star child
Pronunciation: LEE-koh-hoh-shee
Kanji: 莉子星 - Likohan
Meaning: Jasmine sail child
Pronunciation: LEE-koh-hahn
Kanji: 莉子帆 - Lienaho
Meaning: Blooming grace sail
Pronunciation: LEE-eh-nah-hoh
Kanji: 莉恵帆 - Lienaharu
Meaning: Blooming grace spring
Pronunciation: LEE-eh-nah-hah-roo
Kanji: 莉恵春 - Lienaumi
Meaning: Blooming grace sea
Pronunciation: LEE-eh-nah-oo-mee
Kanji: 莉恵海 - Lienatsuki
Meaning: Blooming grace moon
Pronunciation: LEE-eh-nah-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉恵月 - Likanami
Meaning: Fragrant wave
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-nah-mee
Kanji: 莉花波 - Likaori
Meaning: Fragrant weave
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-oh-ree
Kanji: 莉花織 - Likahoshi
Meaning: Fragrant star
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-hoh-shee
Kanji: 莉花星 - Likatsuki
Meaning: Fragrant moon
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉花月 - Likaumi
Meaning: Fragrant sea
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-oo-mee
Kanji: 莉花海 - Likaharuho
Meaning: Fragrant spring sail
Pronunciation: LEE-kah-hah-roo-hoh
Kanji: 莉花春帆 - Lihimeko
Meaning: Jasmine princess child
Pronunciation: LEE-hee-meh-koh
Kanji: 莉姫子 - Lihimena
Meaning: Jasmine princess flower
Pronunciation: LEE-hee-meh-nah
Kanji: 莉姫花 - Lihimetsuki
Meaning: Jasmine princess moon
Pronunciation: LEE-hee-meh-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 莉姫月 - Lihimeharu
Meaning: Jasmine princess spring
Pronunciation: LEE-hee-meh-hah-roo
Kanji: 莉姫春
Japanese girl names built on the 莉 (jasmine) and 蘭 (orchid) kanji sit at the heart of feminine Japanese naming. These characters appear in thousands of names across Japan, symbolizing refinement, purity, and natural elegance passed down through generations.
Unisex Japanese Names Starting With L
Unisex Japanese names are versatile, often drawn from nature or abstract virtues that carry no gender bias. Names based on sky, moon, river, and season are especially common as gender-neutral choices in modern Japan. Our gender-neutral Japanese names with meanings collection has many more options to explore.
- Liku
Meaning: Land, shore
Pronunciation: LEE-koo
Kanji: 陸 - Loren
Meaning: Lotus
Pronunciation: LOH-ren
Kanji: 蓮 - Lana
Meaning: Orchid
Pronunciation: LAH-nah
Kanji: 蘭 - Losora
Meaning: Sky
Pronunciation: LOH-soh-rah
Kanji: 空 - Lokage
Meaning: Shadow, light
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-geh
Kanji: 陰 - Loumi
Meaning: Sea
Pronunciation: LOH-oo-mee
Kanji: 海 - Lohana
Meaning: Flower
Pronunciation: LOH-hah-nah
Kanji: 花 - Lomi
Meaning: Beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-mee
Kanji: 美 - Lochika
Meaning: Wisdom, scattered
Pronunciation: LOH-chee-kah
Kanji: 知花 - Lokaze
Meaning: Wind
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-zeh
Kanji: 風 - Lohoshi
Meaning: Star
Pronunciation: LOH-hoh-shee
Kanji: 星 - Lotsuki
Meaning: Moon
Pronunciation: LOH-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 月 - Loharu
Meaning: Spring
Pronunciation: LOH-hah-roo
Kanji: 春 - Lofuyu
Meaning: Winter
Pronunciation: LOH-foo-yoo
Kanji: 冬 - Lonami
Meaning: Wave
Pronunciation: LOH-nah-mee
Kanji: 波 - Loran
Meaning: Orchid
Pronunciation: LOH-rahn
Kanji: 蘭 - Lohi
Meaning: Fire
Pronunciation: LOH-hee
Kanji: 火 - Lomori
Meaning: Forest
Pronunciation: LOH-moh-ree
Kanji: 森 - Loyama
Meaning: Mountain
Pronunciation: LOH-yah-mah
Kanji: 山 - Lokawa
Meaning: River
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-wah
Kanji: 川 - Loshio
Meaning: Tide
Pronunciation: LOH-shee-oh
Kanji: 潮 - Lokiri
Meaning: Mist
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-ree
Kanji: 霧 - Loyuki
Meaning: Snow
Pronunciation: LOH-yoo-kee
Kanji: 雪 - Loai
Meaning: Love
Pronunciation: LOH-ah-ee
Kanji: 愛 - Lokibo
Meaning: Hope
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-boh
Kanji: 希望 - Lomichi
Meaning: Path
Pronunciation: LOH-mee-chee
Kanji: 道 - Lokan
Meaning: Feeling, sense
Pronunciation: LOH-kahn
Kanji: 感 - Loima
Meaning: Imagination
Pronunciation: LOH-ee-mah
Kanji: 意馬 - Lokyu
Meaning: Rest, space
Pronunciation: LOH-kyoo
Kanji: 旅 - Lohei
Meaning: Peace
Pronunciation: LOH-hay
Kanji: 平 - Lowa
Meaning: Harmony
Pronunciation: LOH-wah
Kanji: 和 - Loshizen
Meaning: Nature
Pronunciation: LOH-shee-zen
Kanji: 自然 - Lokai
Meaning: Sea, open
Pronunciation: LOH-kai
Kanji: 海 - Lomei
Meaning: Bright
Pronunciation: LOH-may
Kanji: 明 - Loichi
Meaning: One, wisdom
Pronunciation: LOH-ee-chee
Kanji: 一知 - Lokan
Meaning: Crown
Pronunciation: LOH-kahn
Kanji: 冠 - Lohiro
Meaning: Wide
Pronunciation: LOH-hee-roh
Kanji: 広 - Loshun
Meaning: Pure
Pronunciation: LOH-shoon
Kanji: 純 - Loken
Meaning: Sword
Pronunciation: LOH-ken
Kanji: 剣 - Lofuu
Meaning: Wind, style
Pronunciation: LOH-foo
Kanji: 風 - Loyou
Meaning: Sun
Pronunciation: LOH-yoh
Kanji: 陽 - Lokuu
Meaning: Sky
Pronunciation: LOH-koo
Kanji: 空 - Lozan
Meaning: Mountain
Pronunciation: LOH-zahn
Kanji: 山 - Lorin
Meaning: Companion
Pronunciation: LOH-reen
Kanji: 倫 - Lokion
Meaning: Joy sound
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-on
Kanji: 楽音 - Lomao
Meaning: True life
Pronunciation: LOH-mah-oh
Kanji: 真生 - Loshuu
Meaning: Autumn
Pronunciation: LOH-shoo
Kanji: 秋 - Lomao
Meaning: True life
Pronunciation: LOH-mah-oh
Kanji: 真生 - Lonatsu
Meaning: Summer
Pronunciation: LOH-nah-tsoo
Kanji: 夏 - Lofuji
Meaning: Wisteria
Pronunciation: LOH-foo-jee
Kanji: 藤 - Lokusa
Meaning: Grass, herb
Pronunciation: LOH-koo-sah
Kanji: 草 - Loryu
Meaning: Dragon flow
Pronunciation: LOH-ryoo
Kanji: 流 - Lokori
Meaning: Ice
Pronunciation: LOH-koh-ree
Kanji: 氷 - Lohi
Meaning: Light
Pronunciation: LOH-hee
Kanji: 光 - Lokuu
Meaning: Empty sky
Pronunciation: LOH-koo
Kanji: 虚空 - Loin
Meaning: Silver
Pronunciation: LOH-een
Kanji: 銀 - Lokin
Meaning: Gold
Pronunciation: LOH-keen
Kanji: 金 - Loku
Meaning: Black
Pronunciation: LOH-koo
Kanji: 黒 - Loshiro
Meaning: White
Pronunciation: LOH-shee-roh
Kanji: 白 - Loao
Meaning: Blue
Pronunciation: LOH-ah-oh
Kanji: 青 - Loaka
Meaning: Red
Pronunciation: LOH-ah-kah
Kanji: 赤 - Lokiiro
Meaning: Yellow
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-ee-roh
Kanji: 黄色 - Lomidori
Meaning: Green
Pronunciation: LOH-mee-doh-ree
Kanji: 緑 - Lomurasaki
Meaning: Purple
Pronunciation: LOH-moo-rah-sah-kee
Kanji: 紫 - Lotoichi
Meaning: First path
Pronunciation: LOH-toh-ee-chee
Kanji: 道一 - Lorei
Meaning: Grace
Pronunciation: LOH-ray
Kanji: 礼 - Lokoto
Meaning: Word, thing
Pronunciation: LOH-koh-toh
Kanji: 言 - Lotoki
Meaning: Time
Pronunciation: LOH-toh-kee
Kanji: 時 - Lonazo
Meaning: Gentle path
Pronunciation: LOH-nah-zoh
Kanji: 穏道 - Loimi
Meaning: Gentle beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-ee-mee
Kanji: 穏美 - Lorena
Meaning: Lotus flower
Pronunciation: LOH-reh-nah
Kanji: 蓮花 - Lorakko
Meaning: Lotus child
Pronunciation: LOH-rak-koh
Kanji: 蓮子 - Loranami
Meaning: Orchid wave
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nah-mee
Kanji: 蘭波 - Loranami
Meaning: Orchid moon
Pronunciation: LOH-rah-nah-mee
Kanji: 蘭月 - Lohoshi
Meaning: Star, hope
Pronunciation: LOH-hoh-shee
Kanji: 星希 - Lomirai
Meaning: Bright future
Pronunciation: LOH-mee-rai
Kanji: 明来 - Lokibo
Meaning: Joy wish
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-boh
Kanji: 喜望 - Lomidori
Meaning: Green beauty
Pronunciation: LOH-mee-doh-ree
Kanji: 緑美 - Lokawa
Meaning: Small river
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-wah
Kanji: 小川 - Lomori
Meaning: Deep forest
Pronunciation: LOH-moh-ree
Kanji: 深森 - Lofuruike
Meaning: Old pond
Pronunciation: LOH-foo-roo-ee-keh
Kanji: 古池 - Lotanuki
Meaning: Raccoon dog
Pronunciation: LOH-tah-noo-kee
Kanji: 狸 - Lokinoko
Meaning: Mushroom child
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-noh-koh
Kanji: 茸子 - Lohikari
Meaning: Beam of light
Pronunciation: LOH-hee-kah-ree
Kanji: 光輝 - Lokiboshi
Meaning: Joy star
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-boh-shee
Kanji: 喜星 - Lokami
Meaning: Divine
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-mee
Kanji: 神 - Lohikari
Meaning: Light radiance
Pronunciation: LOH-hee-kah-ree
Kanji: 光輝 - Lokaoru
Meaning: Fragrant
Pronunciation: LOH-kah-oh-roo
Kanji: 薫 - Lokiku
Meaning: Chrysanthemum
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-koo
Kanji: 菊 - Losuzume
Meaning: Sparrow
Pronunciation: LOH-soo-zoo-meh
Kanji: 雀 - Lotori
Meaning: Bird
Pronunciation: LOH-toh-ree
Kanji: 鳥 - Loshika
Meaning: Deer
Pronunciation: LOH-shee-kah
Kanji: 鹿 - Lousagi
Meaning: Rabbit
Pronunciation: LOH-oo-sah-gee
Kanji: 兎 - Lokuma
Meaning: Bear
Pronunciation: LOH-koo-mah
Kanji: 熊 - Lotanuki
Meaning: Shape-shifter
Pronunciation: LOH-tah-noo-kee
Kanji: 化け狸 - Lokitsune
Meaning: Fox
Pronunciation: LOH-kee-tsoo-neh
Kanji: 狐 - Lousagi
Meaning: Moon rabbit
Pronunciation: LOH-oo-sah-gee
Kanji: 月兎 - Lokobato
Meaning: Dove, gentle
Pronunciation: LOH-koh-bah-toh
Kanji: 鳩 - Lotsubame
Meaning: Swallow
Pronunciation: LOH-tsoo-bah-meh
Kanji: 燕
Unisex names in Japan often draw from the natural world — animals, seasons, elements, and plants. This makes them timeless across generations and genders, fitting for both traditional families and modern parents seeking something open and poetic.
Japanese Last Names That Start With L
Japanese family names adapted to start with L are rooted in geography, nature, and clan heritage. Most originate from surnames beginning with R, such as Ryuu, Roku, and Roka. For a deeper dive into family naming, our Japanese last names with meanings guide covers hundreds of authentic surnames.
- Lyuu
Meaning: Dragon
Pronunciation: Lyoo
Kanji: 龍 - Liku
Meaning: Land, shore
Pronunciation: Lee-koo
Kanji: 陸 - Loka
Meaning: Dew, hill
Pronunciation: Loh-kah
Kanji: 露香 - Lokawa
Meaning: River six
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-wah
Kanji: 六川 - Loyama
Meaning: Mountain
Pronunciation: Loh-yah-mah
Kanji: 露山 - Loishi
Meaning: Stone
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-shee
Kanji: 露石 - Lomori
Meaning: Forest
Pronunciation: Loh-moh-ree
Kanji: 露森 - Lohata
Meaning: Flag, field
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-tah
Kanji: 旗田 - Lotani
Meaning: Valley
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-nee
Kanji: 路谷 - Lowada
Meaning: Harmony field
Pronunciation: Loh-wah-dah
Kanji: 和田 - Loshima
Meaning: Island
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-mah
Kanji: 露島 - Loike
Meaning: Pond
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-keh
Kanji: 路池 - Lokuchi
Meaning: Mouth, entrance
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-chee
Kanji: 路口 - Lobayashi
Meaning: Small forest
Pronunciation: Loh-bah-yah-shee
Kanji: 露林 - Lokawa
Meaning: Small river
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-wah
Kanji: 露川 - Loike
Meaning: Pool, pond
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-keh
Kanji: 路池 - Loshiro
Meaning: White castle
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh
Kanji: 白城 - Lotani
Meaning: Road valley
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-nee
Kanji: 路谷 - Lohara
Meaning: Plain, meadow
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-rah
Kanji: 路原 - Losawa
Meaning: Marsh
Pronunciation: Loh-sah-wah
Kanji: 路沢 - Lobata
Meaning: Field edge
Pronunciation: Loh-bah-tah
Kanji: 路端 - Lohashi
Meaning: Bridge
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-shee
Kanji: 路橋 - Lomachi
Meaning: Town
Pronunciation: Loh-mah-chee
Kanji: 路町 - Lokuni
Meaning: Country
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-nee
Kanji: 路国 - Lotake
Meaning: Bamboo
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-keh
Kanji: 路竹 - Lokusa
Meaning: Grass
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-sah
Kanji: 路草 - Lofuji
Meaning: Wisteria
Pronunciation: Loh-foo-jee
Kanji: 路藤 - Lomatsuri
Meaning: Festival
Pronunciation: Loh-mah-tsoo-ree
Kanji: 路祭 - Lohagi
Meaning: Bush clover
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-gee
Kanji: 路萩 - Losugi
Meaning: Cedar
Pronunciation: Loh-soo-gee
Kanji: 路杉 - Lopine
Meaning: Pine
Pronunciation: Loh-pee-neh
Kanji: 路松 - Lokiri
Meaning: Paulownia
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-ree
Kanji: 路桐 - Lonashi
Meaning: Pear
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-shee
Kanji: 路梨 - Loume
Meaning: Plum
Pronunciation: Loh-oo-meh
Kanji: 路梅 - Losakura
Meaning: Cherry blossom
Pronunciation: Loh-sah-koo-rah
Kanji: 路桜 - Lokiku
Meaning: Chrysanthemum
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-koo
Kanji: 路菊 - Lobotan
Meaning: Peony
Pronunciation: Loh-boh-tahn
Kanji: 路牡丹 - Lohasu
Meaning: Lotus
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-soo
Kanji: 路蓮 - Loayame
Meaning: Iris
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-yah-meh
Kanji: 路菖蒲 - Lokiku
Meaning: Chrysanthemum root
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-koo
Kanji: 路菊根 - Lokokubo
Meaning: Black hollow
Pronunciation: Loh-koh-koo-boh
Kanji: 黒久保 - Lotanaka
Meaning: Middle field
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-nah-kah
Kanji: 路田中 - Loyoshida
Meaning: Lucky rice field
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-shee-dah
Kanji: 路吉田 - Losuzuki
Meaning: Bell tree
Pronunciation: Loh-soo-zoo-kee
Kanji: 路鈴木 - Loiwa
Meaning: Rock
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-wah
Kanji: 路岩 - Lotaniguchi
Meaning: Valley entrance
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-nee-goo-chee
Kanji: 路谷口 - Lonakamura
Meaning: Middle village
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-kah-moo-rah
Kanji: 路中村 - Lokobayashi
Meaning: Small forest
Pronunciation: Loh-koh-bah-yah-shee
Kanji: 路小林 - Loito
Meaning: Thread, path
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-toh
Kanji: 路糸 - Loide
Meaning: Departing well
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-deh
Kanji: 路出 - Lofurukawa
Meaning: Old river
Pronunciation: Loh-foo-roo-kah-wah
Kanji: 路古川 - Lokamata
Meaning: God field
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-mah-tah
Kanji: 神田 - Lotakami
Meaning: High god
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-kah-mee
Kanji: 高神 - Loyasuda
Meaning: Peaceful rice field
Pronunciation: Loh-yah-soo-dah
Kanji: 路安田 - Lotsurumi
Meaning: Crane view
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-roo-mee
Kanji: 路鶴見 - Lokuzuu
Meaning: Persimmon number
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-zoo
Kanji: 路柿数 - Loppongi
Meaning: Six trees
Pronunciation: Loh-pohn-gee
Kanji: 六本木 - Losaeki
Meaning: Promontory
Pronunciation: Loh-sah-eh-kee
Kanji: 路先崎 - Loishida
Meaning: Stone field
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-shee-dah
Kanji: 路石田 - Lotakahashi
Meaning: High bridge
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-kah-hah-shee
Kanji: 路高橋 - Lonagayama
Meaning: Long mountain
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-gah-yah-mah
Kanji: 路長山 - Lokuroda
Meaning: Black field
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-dah
Kanji: 路黒田 - Loshimada
Meaning: Island field
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-mah-dah
Kanji: 路島田 - Lotanigawa
Meaning: Valley river
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-nee-gah-wah
Kanji: 路谷川 - Loyoshikawa
Meaning: Lucky river
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-shee-kah-wah
Kanji: 路吉川 - Lokomatsu
Meaning: Small pine
Pronunciation: Loh-koh-mah-tsoo
Kanji: 路小松 - Lonarita
Meaning: Becoming field
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-ree-tah
Kanji: 路成田 - Lotoyama
Meaning: Wealthy mountain
Pronunciation: Loh-toh-yah-mah
Kanji: 路富山 - Lokatayama
Meaning: Firm mountain
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-tah-yah-mah
Kanji: 路片山 - Lonagano
Meaning: Long field
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-gah-noh
Kanji: 路長野 - Lokudou
Meaning: Nine paths
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-doh
Kanji: 九道 - Lorokku
Meaning: Six
Pronunciation: Loh-rok-koo
Kanji: 六 - Lokushiro
Meaning: Nine white
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-shee-roh
Kanji: 九白 - Loroppou
Meaning: Six directions
Pronunciation: Loh-rop-poh
Kanji: 六方 - Lokuzan
Meaning: Six mountains
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-zahn
Kanji: 六山 - Lokuhara
Meaning: Six plains
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-hah-rah
Kanji: 六原 - Lokushima
Meaning: Six islands
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-shee-mah
Kanji: 六島 - Lokumatsu
Meaning: Six pines
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-mah-tsoo
Kanji: 六松 - Lokuike
Meaning: Six ponds
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-ee-keh
Kanji: 六池 - Lokukawa
Meaning: Six rivers
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-kah-wah
Kanji: 六川 - Lokudera
Meaning: Six temples
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-deh-rah
Kanji: 六寺 - Lokusen
Meaning: Six streams
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-sen
Kanji: 六川 - Lokumori
Meaning: Six forests
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-moh-ree
Kanji: 六森 - Lokutani
Meaning: Six valleys
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-tah-nee
Kanji: 六谷 - Lokuiwa
Meaning: Six rocks
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-ee-wah
Kanji: 六岩 - Lokuha
Meaning: Six waves
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-hah
Kanji: 六波 - Lokutsuki
Meaning: Six moons
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 六月 - Lokuhoshi
Meaning: Six stars
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-hoh-shee
Kanji: 六星 - Lokuhi
Meaning: Six fires
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-hee
Kanji: 六火 - Lokukaze
Meaning: Six winds
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-kah-zeh
Kanji: 六風 - Lokuumi
Meaning: Six seas
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-oo-mee
Kanji: 六海 - Lokuyama
Meaning: Six mountains (alt.)
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-yah-mah
Kanji: 六山 - Lokuha
Meaning: Six blooms
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-hah
Kanji: 六花 - Lokuro
Meaning: Six
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh
Kanji: 六郎 - Lokudan
Meaning: Six steps
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-dahn
Kanji: 六段 - Lokusei
Meaning: Six stars
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-say
Kanji: 六星
Japanese family names are deeply tied to geography and clan history. The 六 (roku/six) and 路 (ro/path) kanji appear in many surnames, reflecting ancestral connections to specific landscapes, roads, and villages across the Japanese archipelago.
Rare Japanese Names That Start With L
These are names that the top competitors tend to skip, drawn from classical Japanese poetry, Shinto terminology, and lesser-known regional naming traditions. For more obscure and one-of-a-kind options, our rare and unique Japanese names collection offers hundreds of equally distinctive choices.
- Lohakuro
Meaning: White-feathered
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-koo-roh
Kanji: 白羽黒 - Lokaname
Meaning: Divine weave
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-nah-meh
Kanji: 神名 - Lomikoto
Meaning: Sacred word
Pronunciation: Loh-mee-koh-toh
Kanji: 御言 - Loshimari
Meaning: Island binding
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-mah-ree
Kanji: 島縛 - Lohonoka
Meaning: Faint fragrance
Pronunciation: Loh-hoh-noh-kah
Kanji: 仄香 - Lokanade
Meaning: Gentle stroke
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-nah-deh
Kanji: 撫 - Lomushiro
Meaning: Woven reed mat
Pronunciation: Loh-moo-shee-roh
Kanji: 筵 - Lokotodama
Meaning: Word spirit
Pronunciation: Loh-koh-toh-dah-mah
Kanji: 言霊 - Lotamashii
Meaning: Soul, spirit
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-mah-shee
Kanji: 魂 - Lomononoke
Meaning: Spirit of things
Pronunciation: Loh-moh-noh-noh-keh
Kanji: 物の怪 - Lomusubi
Meaning: Divine creation
Pronunciation: Loh-moo-soo-bee
Kanji: 産霊 - Lokenzan
Meaning: Sword mountain
Pronunciation: Loh-ken-zahn
Kanji: 剣山 - Lokagutsuchi
Meaning: Fire clay god
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-goo-tsoo-chee
Kanji: 火土 - Losusanoo
Meaning: Storm field
Pronunciation: Loh-soo-sah-noh
Kanji: 嵐野 - Loizanagi
Meaning: Male who invites
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-zah-nah-gee
Kanji: 誘男 - Lotsukuyomi
Meaning: Moon reader
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-koo-yoh-mee
Kanji: 月読 - Loamaterasu
Meaning: Shining heaven
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-mah-teh-rah-soo
Kanji: 天照 - Lokunitsu
Meaning: Earth deity
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-nee-tsoo
Kanji: 国津 - Loamatsu
Meaning: Heavenly pine
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-mah-tsoo
Kanji: 天松 - Lohayabusa
Meaning: Peregrine falcon
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-yah-boo-sah
Kanji: 隼 - Lotsuruhime
Meaning: Crane princess
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-roo-hee-meh
Kanji: 鶴姫 - Losakihime
Meaning: Blooming princess
Pronunciation: Loh-sah-kee-hee-meh
Kanji: 咲姫 - Lohanafuyu
Meaning: Winter flower
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-nah-foo-yoo
Kanji: 花冬 - Loshirayuki
Meaning: White snow
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-rah-yoo-kee
Kanji: 白雪 - Lomidorino
Meaning: Green field
Pronunciation: Loh-mee-doh-ree-noh
Kanji: 緑野 - Lokurenai
Meaning: Crimson
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-reh-nai
Kanji: 紅 - Loakatsuki
Meaning: Red dawn
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-kah-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 暁 - Loyuugure
Meaning: Evening glow
Pronunciation: Loh-yoo-goo-reh
Kanji: 夕暮 - Loshiranami
Meaning: White wave
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-rah-nah-mee
Kanji: 白波 - Loshirakumo
Meaning: White cloud
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-rah-koo-moh
Kanji: 白雲 - Lokirame
Meaning: Glistening
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-rah-meh
Kanji: 煌 - Lohikage
Meaning: Light shadow
Pronunciation: Loh-hee-kah-geh
Kanji: 光陰 - Lonagori
Meaning: Lingering
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-goh-ree
Kanji: 名残 - Loshiomi
Meaning: Salt sea beauty
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-oh-mee
Kanji: 汐海美 - Lomoribito
Meaning: Forest person
Pronunciation: Loh-moh-ree-bee-toh
Kanji: 森人 - Lonagamo
Meaning: Long rain
Pronunciation: Loh-nah-gah-moh
Kanji: 長雨 - Lohisoka
Meaning: Secret
Pronunciation: Loh-hee-soh-kah
Kanji: 密 - Lokioku
Meaning: Memory
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-oh-koo
Kanji: 記憶 - Lotazuna
Meaning: Reins, connection
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-zoo-nah
Kanji: 手綱 - Loikari
Meaning: Anger, passion
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-kah-ree
Kanji: 怒
Rare Japanese names often draw from Shinto mythology, classical poetic vocabulary (waka and haiku traditions), and natural phenomena given spiritual meaning in Japanese culture. These names carry layers of meaning that a name seeker will not find in standard lists.
Old-Fashioned Japanese Names Starting With L
Classical Japanese names echo the Heian period, samurai culture, and Meiji-era elegance. These names feel formal and carry deep historical weight. Fans of historical naming often pair these with our guide to old Japanese names with meanings for full context.
- Lokunosuke
Meaning: Sixth aide
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 六之助 - Lokutaro
Meaning: Sixth first son
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-tah-roh
Kanji: 六太郎 - Lokujiro
Meaning: Sixth second son
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-jee-roh
Kanji: 六二郎 - Lokuzo
Meaning: Sixth third
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-zoh
Kanji: 六三 - Laisaburo
Meaning: Thunder third son
Pronunciation: Lai-sah-boo-roh
Kanji: 雷三郎 - Laishiro
Meaning: Thunder fourth son
Pronunciation: Lai-shee-roh
Kanji: 雷四郎 - Loyosaburo
Meaning: Joy third son
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-sah-boo-roh
Kanji: 良三郎 - Loyohachi
Meaning: Good eight
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-hah-chee
Kanji: 良八 - Loyonosuke
Meaning: Good aide
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 良之助 - Loyoemon
Meaning: Good gate
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-eh-mohn
Kanji: 良右衛門 - Loyobei
Meaning: Good soldier
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-bay
Kanji: 良兵衛 - Loyotaro
Meaning: Good first son
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-tah-roh
Kanji: 良太郎 - Loyojiro
Meaning: Good second son
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-jee-roh
Kanji: 良二郎 - Loyoichi
Meaning: Good first
Pronunciation: Loh-yoh-ee-chee
Kanji: 良一 - Loshirobe
Meaning: White soldier
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-beh
Kanji: 白兵 - Loshiroemon
Meaning: White gate
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-eh-mohn
Kanji: 白右衛門 - Loshironojo
Meaning: White helper
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-noh-joh
Kanji: 白之丞 - Loshironosuke
Meaning: White aide
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 白之助 - Loshirotaro
Meaning: White first son
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-tah-roh
Kanji: 白太郎 - Loshirojiro
Meaning: White second son
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-jee-roh
Kanji: 白二郎 - Loshiroichi
Meaning: White first
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-ee-chee
Kanji: 白一 - Loshirohachi
Meaning: White eighth
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-roh-hah-chee
Kanji: 白八 - Lokurobe
Meaning: Black soldier
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-beh
Kanji: 黒兵 - Lokurotaro
Meaning: Black first son
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-tah-roh
Kanji: 黒太郎 - Lokurojiro
Meaning: Black second son
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-jee-roh
Kanji: 黒二郎 - Lokuroichi
Meaning: Black first
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-ee-chee
Kanji: 黒一 - Lokuronosuke
Meaning: Black aide
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 黒之助 - Lokurohachi
Meaning: Black eighth
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-roh-hah-chee
Kanji: 黒八 - Lorenosuke
Meaning: Lotus aide
Pronunciation: Loh-reh-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 蓮之助 - Lorentaro
Meaning: Lotus first son
Pronunciation: Loh-ren-tah-roh
Kanji: 蓮太郎 - Lorenjiro
Meaning: Lotus second son
Pronunciation: Loh-ren-jee-roh
Kanji: 蓮二郎 - Lorenichi
Meaning: Lotus first
Pronunciation: Loh-ren-ee-chee
Kanji: 蓮一 - Lorenbei
Meaning: Lotus soldier
Pronunciation: Loh-ren-bay
Kanji: 蓮兵衛 - Lyuunosuke
Meaning: Dragon aide
Pronunciation: Lyoo-noh-soo-keh
Kanji: 龍之助 - Lyuutaro
Meaning: Dragon first son
Pronunciation: Lyoo-tah-roh
Kanji: 龍太郎 - Lyuujiro
Meaning: Dragon second son
Pronunciation: Lyoo-jee-roh
Kanji: 龍二郎 - Lyuuichi
Meaning: Dragon first
Pronunciation: Lyoo-ee-chee
Kanji: 龍一 - Lyuubei
Meaning: Dragon soldier
Pronunciation: Lyoo-bay
Kanji: 龍兵衛 - Lyuuemon
Meaning: Dragon gate
Pronunciation: Lyoo-eh-mohn
Kanji: 龍右衛門 - Lyuuzo
Meaning: Dragon third
Pronunciation: Lyoo-zoh
Kanji: 龍三 - Lyuushiro
Meaning: Dragon fourth
Pronunciation: Lyoo-shee-roh
Kanji: 龍四郎 - Lyuuhachi
Meaning: Dragon eighth
Pronunciation: Lyoo-hah-chee
Kanji: 龍八 - Lyuukuro
Meaning: Dragon ninth
Pronunciation: Lyoo-koo-roh
Kanji: 龍九郎 - Lyuujuu
Meaning: Dragon ten
Pronunciation: Lyoo-joo
Kanji: 龍十
Classical Japanese names used ordinal suffixes (-taro for first son, -jiro for second son, -saburo for third) to mark birth order within samurai and merchant families. This system reflects the Confucian influence on Japanese social structure during the Edo period.
Short Japanese Names Starting With L — One and Two Syllables
Short names have surged in modern Japan, valued for ease of use in daily life. One and two-syllable names inspired by zen simplicity align with the minimalism increasingly prized in Japanese culture. These pair beautifully with names from our zen names collection.
- Lo
Meaning: Path, dew
Pronunciation: Loh
Kanji: 路 - Li
Meaning: Jasmine
Pronunciation: Lee
Kanji: 莉 - Luu
Meaning: Lapis lazuli
Pronunciation: Loo
Kanji: 瑠 - Lomi
Meaning: Beauty
Pronunciation: Loh-mee
Kanji: 朗美 - Loki
Meaning: Joy tree
Pronunciation: Loh-kee
Kanji: 楽樹 - Lona
Meaning: Lotus field
Pronunciation: Loh-nah
Kanji: 蓮野 - Liko
Meaning: Jasmine child
Pronunciation: Lee-koh
Kanji: 莉子 - Lina
Meaning: Jasmine village
Pronunciation: Lee-nah
Kanji: 里奈 - Lika
Meaning: Fragrant flower
Pronunciation: Lee-kah
Kanji: 莉花 - Lime
Meaning: Pure bud
Pronunciation: Lee-meh
Kanji: 莉芽 - Lumi
Meaning: Lapis beauty
Pronunciation: Loo-mee
Kanji: 瑠美 - Lena
Meaning: Grace
Pronunciation: Leh-nah
Kanji: 礼奈 - Lana
Meaning: Orchid
Pronunciation: Lah-nah
Kanji: 蘭 - Lia
Meaning: Love beauty
Pronunciation: Lee-ah
Kanji: 莉愛 - Liku
Meaning: Land
Pronunciation: Lee-koo
Kanji: 陸 - Loa
Meaning: Love
Pronunciation: Loh-ah
Kanji: 蓮愛 - Lomi
Meaning: Blossom beauty
Pronunciation: Loh-mee
Kanji: 蓮美 - Lohi
Meaning: Light
Pronunciation: Loh-hee
Kanji: 朗光 - Lowa
Meaning: Harmony
Pronunciation: Loh-wah
Kanji: 和 - Lome
Meaning: Bright bud
Pronunciation: Loh-meh
Kanji: 朗芽 - Loka
Meaning: Fragrance
Pronunciation: Loh-kah
Kanji: 朗香 - Lori
Meaning: Weave
Pronunciation: Loh-ree
Kanji: 織 - Loha
Meaning: Bloom
Pronunciation: Loh-hah
Kanji: 朗花 - Loai
Meaning: Love
Pronunciation: Loh-ai
Kanji: 蓮愛 - Lomi
Meaning: Bud beauty
Pronunciation: Loh-mee
Kanji: 芽美 - Lore
Meaning: Lotus
Pronunciation: Loh-reh
Kanji: 蓮 - Lomo
Meaning: Bright origin
Pronunciation: Loh-moh
Kanji: 朗元 - Loro
Meaning: Bright dew
Pronunciation: Loh-roh
Kanji: 朗露 - Loni
Meaning: Bright two
Pronunciation: Loh-nee
Kanji: 朗二 - Lozu
Meaning: Bright tide
Pronunciation: Loh-zoo
Kanji: 朗潮 - Luha
Meaning: Lapis flower
Pronunciation: Loo-hah
Kanji: 瑠花 - Luko
Meaning: Lapis child
Pronunciation: Loo-koh
Kanji: 瑠子 - Luna
Meaning: Lapis flower
Pronunciation: Loo-nah
Kanji: 瑠奈 - Lumo
Meaning: Lapis origin
Pronunciation: Loo-moh
Kanji: 瑠元 - Luhi
Meaning: Lapis light
Pronunciation: Loo-hee
Kanji: 瑠光 - Luka
Meaning: Lapis fragrance
Pronunciation: Loo-kah
Kanji: 瑠香 - Luwa
Meaning: Lapis harmony
Pronunciation: Loo-wah
Kanji: 瑠和 - Luai
Meaning: Lapis love
Pronunciation: Loo-ai
Kanji: 瑠愛 - Lure
Meaning: Lapis grace
Pronunciation: Loo-reh
Kanji: 瑠礼 - Lumi
Meaning: Lapis beauty (alt.)
Pronunciation: Loo-mee
Kanji: 瑠実
Short Japanese names are gaining popularity across Japan, especially in urban families. One-syllable names like Lo (路) and Li (莉) are rare but represent the purest distillation of Japanese naming: a single kanji carrying a complete world of meaning.
Japanese L Names From Anime and Manga
Anime and manga have made L-initial Japanese names famous worldwide. The character L from Death Note is among the most recognizable. Writers creating Japanese-inspired characters often draw from this pool of names that feel authentic and cinematic. Many of these also appear among our cool Japanese names with meanings.
- Laito
Meaning: Light bringer
Pronunciation: Lai-toh
Kanji: 来人 - Laiden
Meaning: Thunder god
Pronunciation: Lai-den
Kanji: 雷電 - Lyuu
Meaning: Dragon
Pronunciation: Lyoo
Kanji: 龍 - Liren
Meaning: Lotus bond
Pronunciation: Lee-ren
Kanji: 莉蓮 - Lumi
Meaning: Lapis gem
Pronunciation: Loo-mee
Kanji: 瑠美 - Laikaze
Meaning: Thunder wind
Pronunciation: Lai-kah-zeh
Kanji: 雷風 - Loisora
Meaning: Sky path
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-soh-rah
Kanji: 路空 - Lotsuki
Meaning: Moon
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 月 - Lohoshi
Meaning: Star
Pronunciation: Loh-hoh-shee
Kanji: 星 - Laikumo
Meaning: Thunder cloud
Pronunciation: Lai-koo-moh
Kanji: 雷雲 - Laitora
Meaning: Thunder tiger
Pronunciation: Lai-toh-rah
Kanji: 雷虎 - Laiwashi
Meaning: Thunder eagle
Pronunciation: Lai-wah-shee
Kanji: 雷鷲 - Lairyuu
Meaning: Thunder dragon
Pronunciation: Lai-ryoo
Kanji: 雷龍 - Lyuusei
Meaning: Dragon star
Pronunciation: Lyoo-say
Kanji: 龍星 - Lyuukaze
Meaning: Dragon wind
Pronunciation: Lyoo-kah-zeh
Kanji: 龍風 - Lyuuhi
Meaning: Dragon fire
Pronunciation: Lyoo-hee
Kanji: 龍火 - Lyuusora
Meaning: Dragon sky
Pronunciation: Lyoo-soh-rah
Kanji: 龍空 - Lyuuou
Meaning: Dragon king
Pronunciation: Lyoo-oh
Kanji: 龍王 - Loken
Meaning: Sword
Pronunciation: Loh-ken
Kanji: 剣 - Lokami
Meaning: Divine
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-mee
Kanji: 神 - Lohikari
Meaning: Light radiance
Pronunciation: Loh-hee-kah-ree
Kanji: 光輝 - Lokotodama
Meaning: Word spirit
Pronunciation: Loh-koh-toh-dah-mah
Kanji: 言霊 - Lotamashii
Meaning: Soul
Pronunciation: Loh-tah-mah-shee
Kanji: 魂 - Lohayabusa
Meaning: Peregrine falcon
Pronunciation: Loh-hah-yah-boo-sah
Kanji: 隼 - Lotsuruhime
Meaning: Crane princess
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-roo-hee-meh
Kanji: 鶴姫 - Loisora
Meaning: Path sky
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-soh-rah
Kanji: 路空 - Loakatsuki
Meaning: Red dawn
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-kah-tsoo-kee
Kanji: 暁 - Lokunitsu
Meaning: Earth deity
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-nee-tsoo
Kanji: 国津 - Losusanoo
Meaning: Storm deity
Pronunciation: Loh-soo-sah-noh
Kanji: 嵐野 - Lokagutsuchi
Meaning: Fire deity
Pronunciation: Loh-kah-goo-tsoo-chee
Kanji: 火土 - Lokirame
Meaning: Glistening
Pronunciation: Loh-kee-rah-meh
Kanji: 煌 - Lohikage
Meaning: Light shadow
Pronunciation: Loh-hee-kah-geh
Kanji: 光陰 - Loyuugure
Meaning: Evening glow
Pronunciation: Loh-yoo-goo-reh
Kanji: 夕暮 - Loshirayuki
Meaning: White snow
Pronunciation: Loh-shee-rah-yoo-kee
Kanji: 白雪 - Lokurenai
Meaning: Crimson
Pronunciation: Loh-koo-reh-nai
Kanji: 紅 - Lotsukuyomi
Meaning: Moon reader
Pronunciation: Loh-tsoo-koo-yoh-mee
Kanji: 月読 - Loamaterasu
Meaning: Shining heaven
Pronunciation: Loh-ah-mah-teh-rah-soo
Kanji: 天照 - Loizanagi
Meaning: Male who invites
Pronunciation: Loh-ee-zah-nah-gee
Kanji: 誘男 - Lomononoke
Meaning: Spirit of things
Pronunciation: Loh-moh-noh-noh-keh
Kanji: 物の怪 - Lomusubi
Meaning: Divine creation
Pronunciation: Loh-moo-soo-bee
Kanji: 産霊
Anime has fundamentally reshaped how global audiences perceive Japanese names. Characters like L (Death Note), Ryuk (adapted as Lyuk), and various protagonists from Studio Ghibli and Shonen Jump have made these L-style names recognizable across cultures, driving massive search interest worldwide.
Why Japanese Names That Start With L Are So Appealing Globally
- Phonetic beauty: The L sound softens the sharp R of authentic Japanese, making names feel melodic and accessible to Western speakers.
- Kanji depth: Every name carries kanji meaning — a child’s name is also a poem, a wish, or a value.
- Cultural prestige: Japanese names carry a global reputation for elegance, particularly after the worldwide success of anime, manga, and Japanese cinema.
- Versatility: L-initial Japanese names work across cultures — they fit in Japan, the US, the UK, and everywhere in between.
- Rarity: In most countries, Japanese L names are unique. A child named Lumi or Laiden stands out without sounding invented.
- Spiritual meaning: Many names draw from Shinto concepts, Buddhist teachings, and classical poetry — giving them layers of spiritual significance beyond their surface meaning.
How to Choose a Japanese Name Starting With L
Choosing a Japanese L name involves more than sound preference. Here is a practical guide for parents and writers:
- Start with meaning: Decide what value or image you want the name to carry — nature (flower, moon, river), virtue (honor, grace, wisdom), or strength (dragon, thunder, warrior).
- Consider the kanji: The same pronunciation can have multiple kanji, each with a different meaning. For example, Lina can be 里奈 (village flower) or 莉奈 (jasmine flower) — choose the kanji that resonates.
- Check the sound in both languages: Say the name aloud in both English and Japanese pronunciation. The best names sound natural in both.
- Balance length: Short names (Lumi, Liko, Liku) work in everyday speech. Longer names (Lyuunosuke, Loamaterasu) carry more cultural weight but are better for formal or creative contexts.
- Think about nicknames: Longer Japanese L names naturally shorten — Lyuunosuke becomes Lyuu; Lohimeko becomes Lohime. Make sure the short form also sounds pleasing.
For a broader view of naming philosophy across Japanese culture, our guide to Japanese names with meanings offers an excellent foundation, and our Japanese baby names with meanings guide is perfect for new parents narrowing down their choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Japanese names naturally start with the letter L?
No. Japanese does not have an L sound. The R sound (ra, ri, ru, re, ro) is used instead. L-style spellings are phonetic adaptations popular among global parents and writers.
What is the most popular Japanese name starting with L?
Laiden (Raiden) is among the most recognized globally, tied to the thunder god. For girls, Lina (adapted from Rina) is widely used across Japan and internationally.
Can non-Japanese parents give their child a Japanese L name?
Yes. Many parents worldwide choose Japanese names for their cultural beauty and meaning. Using the adapted L spelling while keeping authentic kanji is a respectful and common practice.
How does kanji choice change the meaning of a Japanese name?
Significantly. The same pronunciation can carry entirely different meanings depending on the kanji selected. For example, Ren can mean love (恋), lotus (蓮), or bond (縁) based on the character chosen.
Are Japanese L names suitable for anime and manga characters?
Absolutely. Many writers use L-style spellings to give characters a Japanese feel while keeping names readable for international audiences. Laito, Lumi, and Lio are popular choices.
What is the difference between Japanese first names and last names?
In Japan, the family name (surname) comes first, followed by the given name. For example, Tanaka Ren places Tanaka (family name) before Ren (given name). In English contexts, this order is often reversed.
Do Japanese names have gender-specific patterns?
Generally yes. Girl names often end in soft sounds like -ko, -mi, -na, or -ka, meaning child, beauty, or flower. Boy names tend toward stronger endings like -ro, -ta, -ki, or -to. Unisex names often use nature-based kanji.
How has anime influenced the popularity of Japanese L names globally?
Hugely. Characters like L from Death Note made L-initial Japanese names iconic worldwide. Anime fans naming characters or children after beloved figures have driven global interest in Japanese L-style names.
Are there regional differences in Japanese naming across prefectures?
Yes. Names from Okinawa carry Ryukyuan influences with unique kanji and sounds. Kyoto families often favor classical, poetic names rooted in Heian-era literature, while Tokyo names trend more modern and globally influenced.
Can Japanese last names also be adapted to start with L?
Yes. Surnames like Ryuu, Riku, and Reo adapt naturally to Lyuu, Liku, and Leo. The kanji and meaning remain authentic, making L-style surnames usable for fiction, creative writing, and international name choices.
