30+ Japanese Names with Dark Meings: From Shadow to Myth

Welcome, this is Junko from Japan! In this guide, you’ll discover a variety of Japanese names that carry the meaning of “shadow,” as well as other names with dark connotations.

Whether you’re naming a character in a story or just fascinated by the rich nuances of Japanese naming culture, you’re in the right place! As a native Japanese speaker, I’ll share authentic Japanese words with dark meanings.

Japanese Word for Shadow

Shadow says KAGE in Japanese.

However, to name someone KAGE is almost impossible in reality while it’s possible in manga or anime. If you name someone KAGE, I bet it’ll be regarded as a bizarre name. It’s equivalent to calling someone “kitchen” or something.

On the other hand, we have some Japanese last names that include the shadow symbol. For example, there’s a last name KAGEYAMA, meaning “shadow mountain.”

So the Kanji character for the shadow itself is available for names, and it has two ways of reading: KAGE and EI. If you want mysterious names of Japanese origin badly, I want to offer two options.

1. Choose the names that include KAGE or EI sounds
2. Borrow the word from the shadow of god in Japanese myth

Let’s begin with the first option! Here is the list of names including KAGE and EI sounds. Plus, they all make sense as given names.

Unraveling the Significance of “KAGE” and “EI” in Japanese Names

Names featuring “KAGE” and “EI” are prevalent in Japan, each carrying their unique connotations. “KAGE,” often associated with samurai from the Sengoku era, evokes a sense of solemnity and dignity.

Conversely, “EI” exudes a more modern feel and is favored in names due to its connotation of “excellence.” These linguistic components provide a fascinating insight into the dichotomy between historical and contemporary Japanese culture.

I’ll show you some actual names with KAGE and EI, both for boys and girls.

Japanese Boy Names Including KAGE

• Kageaki
• Kagekazu
• Kagekatsu
• Kageki
• Kagekuni
• Kagesada
• Kagetaka

Japanese Boy Names Including EI

• Eigo
• Eiichi
• Eiiichiro
• Eiji
• Eijiro
• Eita
• Eito
• Eisuke

Japanese Girl Names Including KAGE

• Chigake
• Mikage

Japanese Girl Names Including EI

• Eiko
• Eina
• Eimi

Exploring the Dark Underbelly of Japanese Lexicon

Beyond “KAGE,” the Japanese language is ripe with words that convey the concept of darkness or elements related to the shadowy underworld. These words include:

• AN (dark)
• IN (shadow, Yin of Yin and Yan forces)
• MEI (underworld, Hades, the other world)
• SAYO (night)
• SUMI (black ink)
• YAMI (darkness)
• YORU (night)
• YU (ghost, dark, dim, hazy)

Each word carries its unique cultural nuances and usages, painting a comprehensive picture of Japanese perceptions of darkness.

The Dark Deities of Japanese Mythology

gods who govern the dark shadow world. Though they symbolize darkness and shadow, it doesn’t mean they’re the evil gods.

All the gods and goddesses here are respected and enshrined in Japan. I think you can create unique and interesting names inspired by them.

• YOMI (the realm of the dead)
• IZANAMI (mother of Japanese gods, queen of the underworld)
• KURAMITSUHA (dragon god, god of water)
• TSUKUYOMI (god of night and moon)

In Japanese mythology, “Yomi” is the term for the underworld, ruled by the deity “Izanami.”

Far from a malevolent figure, Izanami is revered as the goddess who birthed numerous gods and is considered the ancestor of the Japanese Imperial family.

Her narrative takes a tragic turn when she succumbs to burns sustained during the birth of the god of fire. Interestingly, Kuramitsuha, one of the deities born from the blood of the infant responsible for Izanami’s demise, is a dragon god presiding over water.

The term “KURA” in Kuramitsuha’s name employs the kanji symbolizing darkness, adding a layer of depth to his persona.

Related Posts about Japanese Names

12 Mysterious Japanese Girl Names That Mean MOON

7 Amazing Japanese Names That Mean STAR

14 Beautiful Japanese Names for Girls That Mean SNOW

10 Striking Japanese Names That Mean Fire: Unleash Your Inner Flame

7 Serene Japanese Names That Mean NIGHT

Read More: Japanese Names: Authentic and Meaningful Guide by a Native Speaker