光

Hikari

girlJapanese

Hikari is a girl name of Japanese origin, meaning “Light, radiance”.

MeaningLight, radiance
GenderGirl
OriginJapanese
Written as光
Pronunciationhee-KAH-ree
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Hikari

Hikari is the Japanese word for light, most often written with the single kanji 光, though parents can also spell it in hiragana (ひかり) or with other characters that carry the same sound. It is mainly a girl's name but is occasionally given to boys. The word is familiar in everyday Japanese life too: it was the name of a well-known class of Shinkansen bullet train service. Its simple, bright image keeps it steadily in use.

Is Hikari a religious name?

Hikari is an ordinary Japanese word rather than a religious name, so it is not specifically Buddhist or Shinto. Light is a positive image in both traditions, but the name carries no formal religious meaning.

How popular is Hikari?

Used regularly in Japan, mostly for girls; rare outside Japanese families.

Gifts with the name Hikari

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Spellings and variants of Hikari

Hikaru

Names similar to Hikari

AkariHinataHanaYuiMitsuki

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Hikari mean?

Hikari means 'Light, radiance'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Hikari have a religious meaning?

Hikari is an ordinary Japanese word rather than a religious name, so it is not specifically Buddhist or Shinto. Light is a positive image in both traditions, but the name carries no formal religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Hikari?

Hikari is pronounced hee-KAH-ree.

Is Hikari a boy or girl name?

Hikari is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.