What does Kohei mean and where does it come from?
Kohei (こうへい) is a masculine name widely used in Japan. It can be composed of different kanji characters, resulting in various meanings. One common combination is '光平', which translates to 'light' (光) and 'flat, even' (平). The name gained popularity in the post-war era. Notable individuals with this
Cultural significance
Kohei has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of japanese.
Peak popularity
Reached #4976 in 1993 — currently #989 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kohei?
Kohei works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kohei Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kohei Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kohei Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kohei Claire
French influence · crisp
Kohei Jane
Literary · strong
Kohei Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kohei right now?
Holding steady — currently #989 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #989 | 1,211 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #994 | 1,191 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #999 | 1,161 | ▲ up 8768 · +19250% births |
| 2000 | #9767 | 6 | ▼ down 3978 · -33% births |
| 1990 | #5789 | 9 | — |
The story of Kohei
Kohei is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1989. With 146 total births recorded, Kohei remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5789 in 1990 to #989 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kohei in 1993:
Kohei by decade
Kohei peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 10 | |
| 1990s ★ | 70 | |
| 2000s | 45 | |
| 2010s | 21 | |
💎Kohei has only 146 total recorded births since 1989 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kohei?
What names sound and feel like Kohei?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kohei also consider these
Common questions about the name Kohei
What does the name Kohei mean?
Kohei means "Japanese" — a name rooted in Japan tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Kohei?
Kohei is currently ranked #989 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kohei?
Kohei originates from Japan tradition. Japan names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kohei a common or rare name?
Kohei is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Kohei?
Kohei naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.