What Stories Lie Behind Your Family Name and Crest?
In Japan, there are approximately 290,000 family names and 50,000 types of family crests (kamon). These combinations are vast, and each one carries an important message left by our ancestors.
As a genealogy specialist who has unraveled many families’ histories, I find the stories hidden within family names and crests particularly fascinating. Today, I’ll share some secrets about these everyday elements of our heritage that often go unnoticed.
The Roots Hidden in Our Family Names
During the Heian to Kamakura periods, nobles and samurai began adopting family names. This practice originated in the Heian period when people started using names to indicate their origins.
Some family names came directly from place names (like “Ashikaga” or “Musashi”), while others derived from court or shogunate positions (such as “Sakon” or “Ukon”).
As warrior families rose to prominence, names evolved in patterns:
- First, adopting the name “Minamoto”
- Then, taking names from their residence (like “Ashikaga”)
- Later, branch families adopting new names based on territories or positions (like “Yamauchi” or “Kawaguchi”)
This shows how families sharing Minamoto lineage branched into various names over time and circumstances.
Characteristics of these historical naming patterns remain evident in modern Japanese surnames:
- About 80% derive from place names
- Many combine kanji characters describing geographical features
- Some preserve ancient government position titles
The Meiji Era: When Everyone Could Have a Family Name
During the Edo period, samurai held the privilege of using family names officially. While commoners might have had family names, they couldn’t use them in official contexts.
In 1875 (Meiji 8), all Japanese citizens were required to adopt family names. Some used ancestral names, while others created new ones, known as “Meiji shin-sei” (new Meiji surnames).
Family Crests: History and Meaning
Family crests originated in the late Heian period as identification marks on aristocrats’ ox-drawn carriages. Their characteristics include:
- High visibility
- Clear designs recognizable from afar
- Distinct black and white patterns
- Reflection of unique Japanese aesthetics
- Balance of geometric beauty and symbolism
These crests evolved through the Kamakura period as battlefield identification markers for warriors, and later as merchant shop symbols, continuing to the present day.
Family crests aren’t mere family marks; they’re symbols carrying deep meaning despite their simplicity. They embody family history, pride, and aspirations:
- Animal motifs like turtles and cranes symbolize longevity and family prosperity
- Plant designs like wisteria and peonies represent power and status
- Tools like nail-pullers and sake measures showed professional pride
Inheritance and Evolution of Family Crests
Family crests sometimes changed over time. When establishing branch families, slight modifications to the main family’s crest were common, showing both connection and independence.
Research Considerations
When researching family names and crests online, remember:
- Names could change before the Meiji era
- Crests might change through adoption
- Same names may have different origins by region
- Regional variations in name pronunciation exist
Closing
At TADOROOTS, we unravel the meanings behind family names and crests while considering regional and historical contexts. There are surely wonderful discoveries waiting in your ancestors’ wishes and stories.
If you’re interested, please feel free to consult with us. We’d be honored to explore your family’s story together.
[Contact Information]
https://www.tadoroots.jp
