Tanaka

Meaning

Composed of 'ta' (rice field) and 'naka' (middle), literally meaning 'middle of the rice field.'

Etymology

The surname combines 'ta' (田, rice field) with 'naka' (中, middle), creating a topographic name referencing a location within agricultural land. This is one of the most common Japanese surnames.

About the Tanaka Surname

One of the most common Japanese surnames, referring to a location in the middle of rice fields. The name is extremely widespread in Japan and among Japanese communities globally.

Distribution

Found throughout Japan and among Japanese diaspora communities worldwide, one of the most common Japanese surnames.

Notable Bearers

Kakuei Tanaka (Japanese Prime Minister), Yuki Tanaka (actress)

People with the Tanaka Surname