謙信

Kenshin

boyJapaneseBuddhist

Kenshin is a Buddhist boy name of Japanese origin, meaning “Humility and faith”.

MeaningHumility and faith
GenderBoy
OriginJapanese
Written as謙信
PronunciationKEN-sheen
TraditionBuddhist, Modern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Kenshin

Kenshin is most famously the name of Uesugi Kenshin, the sixteenth-century daimyo of Echigo, who took it as a Buddhist name when he entered monastic vows. Written 謙信, it pairs ken, humility or modesty, with shin, trust, faith or sincerity. The name is also known worldwide from the manga and anime Rurouni Kenshin. Other kanji combinations are possible with different shades of meaning.

Is Kenshin a Buddhist name?

For Uesugi Kenshin the name was a Buddhist religious name, and he was a devotee of Bishamonten; today it is used as an ordinary given name without religious requirements.

How popular is Kenshin?

Recognised but fairly uncommon as a given name in Japan.

Gifts with the name Kenshin

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Names similar to Kenshin

More Buddhist boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Kenshin mean?

Kenshin means 'Humility and faith'. It is of Japanese origin.

Is Kenshin a Buddhist name?

For Uesugi Kenshin the name was a Buddhist religious name, and he was a devotee of Bishamonten; today it is used as an ordinary given name without religious requirements.

How do you pronounce Kenshin?

Kenshin is pronounced KEN-sheen.

Is Kenshin a boy or girl name?

Kenshin is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.