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Last Name Kawasaki

What is the origin of the last name Kawasaki?

The last name Kawasaki is of Japanese origin. It originates from the Japanese words "kawa," meaning "river," and "saki," meaning "cape" or "peninsula." It is a common surname in Japan and is often associated with families that have roots in the Kawasaki region of Kanagawa Prefecture.

Race and Ethnicity of people with the last name Kawasaki

The Decennial U.S. Census also provides insights into the ethnic identity associated with the surname Kawasaki. Predominantly, it is affiliated with Asian/Pacific Islander ethnicity, although there was a small dip from 78.66% in 2000 to 75.55% by 2010. Over the same period, those identifying as two or more races increased from 7.91% to 10.85%, a significant growth of 37.17%. The data also showed a decrease in individuals identifying as White, from 10.39% to 8.99%. However, there was a notable rise in the Hispanic representation, growing by 46.77% to reach 3.64% in 2010. Finally, while there were no individuals identifying as Black or American Indian and Alaskan Native in 2000, by 2010 these groups constituted 0.57% and 0.40% respectively of those bearing the Kawasaki surname.

20002010Change
Asian/Pacific Islander78.66%75.55%-3.95%
Two or More Races7.91%10.85%37.17%
White10.39%8.99%-13.47%
Hispanic2.48%3.64%46.77%
Black0%0.57%0%
American Indian and Alaskan Native0%0.4%0%

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kawasaki

The meaning and origin of the last name Kawasaki

The surname Kawasaki is of Japanese origin and is derived from the combination of the words "kawa" meaning "river" and "saki" meaning "cape". This surname is primarily found in the Kanagawa and Fukushima prefectures of Japan. It is believed that individuals with the surname Kawasaki may have ancestors who were either from a river-side location or a cape area. The Kawasaki surname has historical significance, as it was also the name of a prominent Japanese industrialist and founder of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Shozo Kawasaki. Today, the surname Kawasaki is not only associated with the industrial giant but also with individuals from diverse backgrounds contributing to various fields such as business, entertainment, and sports.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kawasaki

The last name Kawasaki is primarily found in Japan, where it is one of the most common surnames. It originates from the city of Kawasaki in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is located near Tokyo. The name is believed to have originated from the combination of the words "kawa," meaning river, and "saki," meaning cape or promontory. Due to its long history and association with a specific region in Japan, the surname Kawasaki remains most prevalent within the country. However, with globalization and Japanese migration patterns, individuals with the last name Kawasaki can also be found in other parts of the world, particularly in countries with significant Japanese populations such as the United States, Brazil, and Peru. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Kawasaki reflects its strong ties to Japanese culture and heritage.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kawasaki

Kawasaki is a last name that can be spelled and pronounced in a variety of ways. Some variations include Kavasaki, Kowasaki, and Kwasaki. Other possible spellings could be Kowaski, Kavaski, or even Kowashaki. The name may also be written as Kavashaki, Kawasake, or even Kowasci. With its origins in Japan, the name Kawasaki could also be translated into Kanji characters as 川崎, which means "river cape" or "river promontory." Regardless of the spelling or pronunciation, the name Kawasaki carries a sense of uniqueness and history, representing a family with a rich cultural background and heritage.

Famous people with the last name Kawasaki

One famous person with the last name Kawasaki is Guy Kawasaki, a renowned entrepreneur, author, and speaker. He is best known for his work as a chief evangelist for Apple and as a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Kawasaki has authored several influential books on entrepreneurship, innovation, and marketing, such as "The Art of the Start" and "Enchantment." Another well-known figure with the last name Kawasaki is Hiroaki Kawasaki, a former professional baseball player from Japan. Hiroaki played as an infielder for the Hanshin Tigers and the Yokohama BayStars in the Japanese professional baseball league. He was known for his exceptional defense and clutch hitting during his time on the field. Both Guy Kawasaki and Hiroaki Kawasaki have made significant contributions to their respective fields and are recognized for their talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Kawasaki

Kawasaki is a Japanese surname with a rich and diverse genealogical history. The name is believed to be of territorial origin, deriving from the city of Kawasaki in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. The earliest recorded instances of the surname date back to feudal Japan, where the Kawasaki clan served as warriors and samurai under various shogunates. Over time, branches of the family spread throughout Japan, establishing prosperous businesses and becoming influential figures in academic and political circles. Today, individuals with the surname Kawasaki can be found not only in Japan but also in other parts of the world due to emigration and globalization. The name continues to carry a sense of pride and tradition for those who bear it, connecting them to a long lineage of resilience, perseverance, and honor.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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