Japanese Family Names and Place Names: Understanding the Meaning Behind the Kanji
When non-Japanese speakers encounter place names like “Tokyo” or “Kyoto,” they typically recognize only the sounds. However, for Japanese native speakers, Japanese language learners and genealogical researchers, understanding the meanings embedded in these names is essential for effective research in Japan.
The Meaning System of Japanese Place Names
Kyoto: Capital Capital
The word “Kyoto” is written as “京都” in Japanese characters (kanji). Breaking this down:
- “京” (kyo) means “capital”
- “都” (to) also means “capital”
Therefore, Kyoto literally means “capital capital” – emphasizing its status as the imperial capital for over a thousand years.
Tokyo: Eastern Capital
“Tokyo” is written as “東京”:
- “東” (to) means “east”
- “京” (kyo) means “capital”
Thus, Tokyo means “eastern capital.” Eastern in relation to what? Naturally, it means east of Kyoto. Since the Emperor’s move from Kyoto to Tokyo (formerly Edo) in 1868, Japan has maintained a “Tento” (奠都) system – essentially two capitals coexisting. Because the Imperial Throne exists in Tokyo, Kyoto remains one of Japan’s capitals even today. Strictly speaking, the Emperor is currently only temporarily staying in Tokyo, with Kyoto Imperial Palace being the main residence, and Kyoto remains Japan’s capital – this is the understanding of Kyoto citizens. Be careful: making statements contrary to this view to Kyoto residents may provoke their anger.
Nishitokyo: Western Tokyo
An interesting example within Tokyo is Nishitokyo City (西東京市):
- “西” (nishi) means “west”
- “東” (to) means “east”
- “京” (kyo) means “capital”
Despite appearing to say “west-east-capital,” this actually means “Western Tokyo City” – a city located in the western part of Tokyo.
Japanese Family Names (Surnames)
Japanese family names follow the same principle of meaningful characters. For example, my surname “Kinoshita” (木下) means:
- “木” (ki) means “tree”
- “下” (shita) means “under”
Therefore, “Kinoshita” literally means “under a tree.” This surname originated from a place name somewhere in the Shimoina District of Nagano Prefecture.
Important Distinction: Prefecture vs. City
This is a critical point that people overseas often overlook. Many major Japanese place names can refer to either a prefecture (larger administrative division) or a city (smaller administrative division) within that prefecture.
Kyoto: Prefecture or City?
When someone says “Kyoto,” they could mean:
- Kyoto Prefecture (京都府) – a large area covering much of the region
- Kyoto City (京都市) – the urban core within the prefecture
For genealogical research, this distinction is crucial. If a client says “my ancestor came from Kyoto”:
- If they mean Kyoto City, the search area is reasonably limited
- If they mean Kyoto Prefecture, the search area is considerably larger and more challenging
The same applies to Osaka (Osaka Prefecture vs. Osaka City).
Tokyo: A Unique Case
Tokyo is somewhat unique:
- Tokyo as an administrative entity refers only to Tokyo Metropolis (東京都), which consists of the 23 special wards, the Tama area, and island territories
- There is no “Tokyo City” today (though one existed in the past)
- The 23 special wards collectively are commonly referred to as “Tokyo”
- Nishitokyo City, mentioned earlier, is never referred to simply as “Tokyo”
Implications for Genealogical Research
Understanding these meanings and administrative distinctions is essential when:
- Interpreting historical records that mention place names
- Determining the scope of research based on location information
- Communicating with Japanese authorities or researchers about specific locations
- Evaluating the difficulty and cost of ancestral research projects
When requesting genealogical research in Japan, always provide the most specific location information possible, clarifying whether you’re referring to a prefecture, city, town, or specific district.
