How to write your name in Japanese
Japanese uses three scripts. Foreign names are written in Katakana, a syllabary where each character is a sound (a consonant + a vowel, like カ "ka" or リ "ri"). To write your name in Japanese, each sound is matched to the closest Katakana and the syllables are placed in a row. For example, Jessica becomes ジェシカ (Je-shi-ka). Korean Name Lab does this instantly and shows the romaji so you can read it aloud.
Because Japanese has fewer sounds than English, a name in Katakana is always an approximation. Sounds Japanese doesn't have are mapped to the nearest one, and a vowel is often added after a lone consonant (which is why "David" becomes デイビッド). That's exactly how Japanese speakers write foreign names.
Katakana spelling vs. a real Japanese name
There are two different things people mean by "my Japanese name":
- Katakana spelling — your existing name written by sound (e.g., Sarah → サラ). This is what appears on a form in Japan.
- A Japanese-style given name — a real Japanese name written in Kanji with its own meaning (e.g., 桜, Sakura, "cherry blossom").
Korean Name Lab gives you both: your Katakana spelling at the top, and a set of meaningful Japanese-style names below.
Why look up your name in Japanese
Anime, manga, J-pop, studying Japanese, travel, gaming handles, social bios — there are countless reasons people want to see their name in Japanese. It's a fun, personal touch you can share. Save your name card image and compare with friends.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the official way to write my name in Japanese?
It follows the standard approach Japanese speakers use — matching each sound to the closest Katakana. Because pronunciations vary, more than one spelling can be acceptable. Use it as a great starting point.
Can I hear how it sounds?
Yes. Tap the 🔊 button to hear your name read aloud using your device's Japanese voice (available on most modern phones and browsers).
Is my name stored anywhere?
No. Everything runs in your browser. Your name is never uploaded to or stored on a server.
Can I download my name in Japanese as an image?
Yes. Click "Save name card" to download a shareable image of your name in Katakana.