俊隆

Shunryu

boyJapaneseBuddhist

Shunryu is a Buddhist boy name of Japanese origin, meaning “Excellent and flourishing (by kanji)”.

MeaningExcellent and flourishing (by kanji)
GenderBoy
OriginJapanese
Written as俊隆
PronunciationSHOON-ryoo
TraditionBuddhist
Used inJapan, United States

Meaning and origin of Shunryu

Shunryu is best known as the dharma name of Shunryu Suzuki (1904-1971), the Soto Zen priest who founded the San Francisco Zen Center and wrote Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind. His name is written 俊隆, combining 俊, 'excellent, talented', with 隆, 'prosperous, flourishing'. The 'spring dragon' meaning sometimes given does not match these characters. It is rare as an everyday Japanese name.

Is Shunryu a Buddhist name?

In Buddhist circles Shunryu is strongly linked to Suzuki Roshi and the spread of Zen in the West. Parents choosing it usually do so in his honour.

How popular is Shunryu?

Very rare; mostly known through Shunryu Suzuki.

Gifts with the name Shunryu

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Spellings and variants of Shunryu

Shunryuu

Names similar to Shunryu

DogenShinRyuDaisetsu

More Buddhist boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Shunryu mean?

Shunryu means 'Excellent and flourishing (by kanji)'. It is of Japanese origin.

Is Shunryu a Buddhist name?

In Buddhist circles Shunryu is strongly linked to Suzuki Roshi and the spread of Zen in the West. Parents choosing it usually do so in his honour.

How do you pronounce Shunryu?

Shunryu is pronounced SHOON-ryoo.

Is Shunryu a boy or girl name?

Shunryu is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.