Kojiro

Kojiro is a masculine given name in Japan. The most common kanji rendering is 小次郎, which literally combines 小 meaning “small” or “little” with 次郎 meaning “second son.” Because kanji spellings can vary, Kojiro can be written with different characters, but 小次郎 remains the traditional form associated with the name.

In Japanese naming practice, 次郎 is a frequent suffix for the second son, and 小 adds a sense of diminutive or affection. As a result, Kojiro is typically used for boys and has historical roots in traditional naming conventions. The name is widely recognized in Japanese culture and appears across historical, literary, and contemporary contexts.

The best-known bearer of the name is Sasaki Kojiro (小次郎), a legendary swordsman famous for his supposed duel with Miyamoto Musashi. He appears in numerous works of literature, film, and theater, contributing to the enduring association of the name with martial prowess and classic Japanese storytelling.

In modern usage, Kojiro remains a legitimate given name in Japan and among Japanese communities abroad. It also appears in fiction, including anime, manga, and video games, where characters named Kojiro often evoke traditional or martial motifs. While less common as a surname, the given name continues to be used for its cultural resonance and timeless sound.