Nobushige

Nobushige is a masculine Japanese given name. It is used in Japan and among Japanese communities abroad. The name is typically written with kanji that may be read as Nobu- and -shige, but many kanji combinations are possible, and the exact meaning depends on the characters chosen. In practice, the pronunciation Nobushige can also be rendered in kana as のぶしげ.

Historically, Nobushige appears in various Japanese records and literary sources as a personal name. Because naming practices often reused common kanji elements and varied by region, there is no single canonical bearer associated with the name. Details about individuals named Nobushige can differ between sources, and some references may refer to figures who are obscure or regional rather than prominent.

In modern usage, Nobushige remains a traditional but relatively uncommon given name for boys in Japan. It is sometimes chosen for its classic sound and its connection to historical or conventional naming patterns. In fiction and media, Nobushige is occasionally used for male characters to convey a sense of heritage or gravitas, appearing in novels, manga, films, and video games.

Notable bearers: The name has appeared among various individuals in historical documents and contemporary contexts, but there is no single widely recognized figure that defines the name’s history.

See also: Nobu, Shige.