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Hayao Miyazaki, photo by Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology – Wikimedia

20 Famous Japanese people

*Originally published by Lilian in January 2021 and updated by Vanessa in July 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R in November 2023  and updated by John k in February 2024

Japan has some of the world’s greatest authors, musicians, directors and thinkers. The Japanese are also known for their resilience, hard work, honesty, intelligence and discipline.

This country is made up of several islands in the Pacific Ocean. The people from this country are known for their contribution to culture, science and technology, religion and philosophy, fine arts, and literature.

Despite living in a country that gets frequent earthquakes and tsunamis, the Japanese are brave and nothing stops them from achieving their dreams.

Here are the 20 famous Japanese people that you need to know. 

1. Hayao Miyazaki – Animation Director

Hayao Miyazaki, photo by Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology – Wikimedia

Hayao Miyazaki is one of the greatest animation directors in Japan. He is excellent in creating entertaining plots, compelling characters, and breathtaking animation in his films.

This has earned him international recognition from critics as well as the public in Japan. Hayao is also the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, a film and animation studio.

The studio was founded in June 1985, by Hayo, Takahata, Tokuma and Suzuki.  They were funded by Tokuma Shoten.

Their first film was Laputa: Castle in the Sky released in 1986. Miyazaki’s designs for the films’ setting were inspired by Greek architecture and the European urbanistic templates.

2. Ken Watanabe – Actor

By Thore Siebrands – Wikimedia

Ken is a renown Japanese actor. He is famous for playing tragic hero characters such as General Tadamichi Kuribayashi in Letters from Iwo Jima and Lord Katsumoto Moritsugu in The Last Samurai.

These roles earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He has won the Japan Academy Film Prize for Best Actor twice, in 2007 for Memories of Tomorrow and in 2010 for Shizumanu Taiyō.

Ken starred in the reboot Godzilla as Dr Ishiro Serizawa in 2014 and in its sequel too. He has also been on Broadway during his 2015 debut at the Lincoln Centre Theatre for the production of The King and me.

Watanabe repeated his role at the London Palladium in June 2018.

3. Hiroyuki Sanada – Actor

Another famous Japanese person is Hiroyuki Sanada. He was born on the 12th of October, 1960 in Tokyo. His first film debut was when he was 5 in Game of Chance (1965).

Sanada has established himself as an actor who is skilled at playing a variety of roles. He was first noticed as a serious actor in the movie Mahjong Hourouki that was directed by Makoto Wada.

Hiroyuki started his career as an action star but is known as one of the most talented actors in Japan.

4. Haruki Murakami – Writer

Haruki is a prolific Japanese writer. All his books and stories have been bestsellers in Japan as well as internationally.

The books have also been translated into 50 languages and selling millions of copies outside his country.

Haruki has also received numerous awards, like the World Fantasy Award, the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award, the Franz Kafka Prize, and the Jerusalem Prize.

His most notable works include A Wild Sheep Chase, Norwegian Wood, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Kafka on the Shore, and 1Q84.

Additionally, Murakami has written several works of nonfiction. After the Hanshin earthquake and the Tokyo subway sarin gas attack in 1995, he interviewed surviving victims, as well as members of the religious cult responsible.

5. Shinji Kagawa – Professional Footballer

Shinji Kagawa by Svetlana Beketova – Wikimedia

If you are a football fan especially of the Premier League, then Shinji Kagawa is no stranger to you. He is a professional footballer, who played for Borussia Dortmund in 2010 then signed a 2-year contract with Manchester United from 2012 to 2014.

Kagawa was the first Japanese player to ever play for the club.  He is an attacking midfielder and also plays for the Japanese national football team.

He holds the record for both the highest number of appearances and the highest number of goals scored by a Japanese player in the UEFA club competitions.

6. Yoko Ono – Artist

She is famous for marrying John Lennon who was the lead singer of the Beatles. Yoko Ono is a peace activist, conceptual artist and an Avant-Garde musician.

Ono was born in Tokyo in 1933 but migrated with her family to New York after World War II. She continues to strive for peace and using her activism to support gun control and against fracking.

Yoko has used feminist themes in her music to influence musicians as diverse as the B-52s and Meredith Monk.

Her collaboration with her husband, Double Fantasy, earned her commercial and critical acclaim as well as the Grammy for Album of the Year in 1980.

7. Marie Kondo – Author & Organizing Expert

Marie Kondo By Web Summit – Wikimedia

Marie has had international success with several books and a Netflix show. She is popular for her organization skills and decluttering.

Kondo applies her distinctly Japanese approach to order by using her own KonMari method. Her book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing, has been translated into 30 languages. She has also sold millions of copies.

Her lifestyle brand and home-keeping techniques have made her a household name. she gives lectures on KonMari methods.

8. Mari Osaka – Professional Tennis Player

Mari Osaka is a professional tennis player who plays for Japan. She and her sister, Naomi Osaka, have been compared to Serena and Venus Williams.

Mari made her Women’s Tennis Association debut at the Bank of the West Classic professional tournament. She partnered with Marina Shamayko when she was 18 years old.

Her career in tennis slowed down due to injuries thus making her miss out on winning any tournament.

9. Naoko Takeuchi – Manga Artist

Naoko Takeuchi is a renowned manga artist, famous for creating the manga series ‘Sailor Moon’. This series is one of the most popular manga comics of all time.

The series inspired the live-action movies Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon: The Movie and Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: Special Act.

She has gone on to create some of the most beloved manga comics of all time. Additionally, she has also written the lyrics for some of the most popular anime songs.

10. Akira Kurosawa – Film Director

Akira Kurosawa was a film director, screenwriter, and producer who directed 30 films in a career spanning 57 years. He is considered to be one of the most important and influential filmmakers in the history of cinema.

Kurosawa started his career in the Japanese film industry in 1936, after a brief stint as a painter. He made his debut as a director during World War II with the popular action film Sanshiro Sugata.

11. Naomi Osaka-Tennis Player

Naomi Osaka by si.robi from

At age 3, Naomi Osaka began playing tennis. Although she was born and raised in the United States, she is of Japanese descent, therefore thus representing Japan in the court (her mother is from Japan, her father from Haiti). Osaka, who can serve at 120 mph, is the first Asian tennis player to achieve the No. 1 ranking. She was also the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam championship.

Osaka has consistently played for Japan, a choice that her father campaigned for. He thought the Japan Tennis Association would be more helpful than the American Tennis Association. 

12. Yuzuru Hanyu-Figure Skater

Yuzuru Hanyu by Luu from

Japan’s Yuzuru Hanyu competes in figure skating. Hanyu, regarded as one of the best male figure skaters of all time, won two consecutive Olympic gold medals in 2014 and 2018, becoming only the second figure skater in history to do so. Additionally, he took first place in the 2020 Four Continents Championships, making him the first male solo skater to complete the Super Slam.

13. Akira Kurosawa- Japanese Filmmaker

Kurosawa Kiyoshi by Bryan Chan from

Filmmaker Akira Kurosawa was from Japan. One of the most influential and significant directors of all time, Kurosawa’s films helped other Japanese filmmakers gain a reputation abroad by introducing Japanese entertainment items to Western cinema markets. It is because of his influence as a filmmaker that Asia’s progress is ascribed to him.

14. Hideo Kojima

Kojima Hideo by Nic Fillingham from

Few people have more respect in the video game industry than Kojima, whose country is well renowned for its significant contributions to the gaming industry. Kojima, a 1963-year-old game designer, producer, and director, started working for Konami as a scriptwriter in 1986.

His Metal Gear series created the groundwork for all subsequent stealth games, and the critically acclaimed Metal Gear Solid (published for the PlayStation in 1998) cemented his reputation as one of the most illustrious video game creators in history.

15. Keiichi Tanaami

When it came to post-war pop performers in Japan, Tanaami was at the vanguard. While Tokyo was bombed when he was only nine years old, his early years were marked by confusion and upheaval.

He has been and continues to be a multi-genre artist who is renowned for his creative and thought-provoking work. His artwork frequently portrays the difference between life and death. His early years of witnessing hundreds of bombs fall on Tokyo, ensuing war-torn Japan, and his own later-life ill health all served as inspiration for his work.

Since the beginning of time, Japan has produced many thinkers, artists, authors, composers, samurais, and manufacturers whose contributions have enhanced not only the history and culture of the country but have also had an impact on the whole globe.

16. Ichiro Suzuki

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Ichiro Suzuki, a brilliant baseball player who enjoyed a lengthy and successful career in both Japan and the United States, is one of the most well-known Japanese individuals in recent memory.

Ichiro, a Japanese baseball player who was born in 1973, started his professional career in 1992 with the Orix Blue Wave and rose to the top of the game quite rapidly. 

He signed a contract with the Seattle Mariners in 2001 to make the transition to the Big Leagues. Ichiro rose to prominence in the MLB very fast, winning the Rookie of the Year Award and being chosen for 10 straight All-Star teams.

He is known as one of the best hitters in baseball history and has earned multiple Gold Glove Awards.

17. Akira Kurosawa

Kurosawa was a master of Japanese cinema and one of the most praised directors of all time. He is arguably most known for his samurai flicks like Seven Samurai and Yojimbo. His films were based on real events or works of literature.

He also served as the director of the timeless Rashomon, considered as one of the best films ever.

18. Tokugawa Ieyasu

Tokugawa Ieyasu, the Tokugawa shogunate’s founder and first shogun, is considered as one of the most important figures in Japanese history. He put an end to the Warring States era and brought about the Edo period, which was characterised by peace and stability. In addition, he is recognised for assisting in modernising and globalising Japan.

19. Isoroku Yamamoto

Isoroku Yamamoto, who was in charge of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor that drove the United States into the war, is usually viewed as one of the most able naval commanders of World War Two. Before his death in 1943, he also oversaw Japanese wins at the Battles of Midway and Guadalcanal.

20. George Miller

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Japanese singer-songwriter, record producer, author, and comedian George Miller is also known as Joji and Filthy Frank. He made money off of his large following after becoming well-known on YouTube by using a number of now-defunct YouTube channels.

In order to concentrate on his commercial musical career, he stopped his channels after becoming well-known as a social media figure. His current genres of production are R&B and Trip-Hop.

Japan’s Cultural Icons: 20 Little-Known Facts About the Worldwide Influence of Famous Japanese People

Japan’s cultural icons and famous personalities have left an indelible mark on the global stage.

World-famous Japanese people like Marie Kondo, Hayao Miyazaki, and iconic athletes have captivated international audiences.

Other luminaries have created groundbreaking works in cinema, fashion, literature, music, and more, that have transcended borders, enriching the world’s cultural tapestry.

From the timeless wisdom of Ryunosuke Akutagawa’s literature to the innovative designs of Issey Miyake, Japanese creators have captivated audiences worldwide with their creativity, vision, and unique perspectives.

Their contributions have not only shaped their respective fields but have also fostered cross-cultural exchange, inspiring admiration and appreciation for Japanese culture on a global scale.

Here are 20 Little-Known Facts About the Worldwide Influence of Famous Japanese People:

1. Hayao Miyazaki, The Animation Maestro

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Hayao Miyazaki, the animator, is a cultural icon revered worldwide.

Renowned for his visionary storytelling and breathtaking animation, Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli films, including “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro,” have captivated audiences globally.

His unparalleled ability to blend fantasy with poignant themes has not only revolutionized Japanese animation but has also influenced Western animation studios, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers.

Through his enchanting tales, Miyazaki has sparked a deep appreciation for Japanese culture among fans worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the history of animation.

2. Osamu Tezuka, The Godfather of Manga

Osamu Tezuka, hailed as the godfather of manga, is a revered cultural icon whose influence extends far beyond Japan.

His iconic creations, including “Astro Boy” and “Kimba the White Lion,” revolutionized the manga and anime industries, setting the stage for their global prominence.

Tezuka’s innovative storytelling techniques and dynamic characters captivated audiences worldwide, shaping the landscape of modern animation and inspiring generations of artists.

Through his pioneering work, Tezuka introduced the world to the rich tradition of Japanese storytelling, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate in manga, anime, and popular culture around the globe.

3. Hiroo Onoda, The Soldier Who Didn’t Surrender

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Hiroo Onoda, the soldier who didn’t surrender, captured global attention with his remarkable story of unwavering loyalty and resilience.

Spending decades in the jungles of the Philippines after World War II, unaware of Japan’s surrender, Onoda’s tale resonated worldwide, symbolizing themes of duty, honor, and the lasting impact of war.

His extraordinary perseverance in the face of adversity captured the imagination of people around the globe, sparking discussions about the complexities of wartime allegiance and the human spirit’s capacity for endurance.

Onoda’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring lessons gleaned from history’s tumultuous chapters.

4. Momofuku Ando, The Instant Ramen King

Momofuku Ando, the instant ramen king, left an indelible mark on global cuisine with his revolutionary invention.

Instant ramen, created by Ando, not only transformed Japanese culinary traditions but also became a worldwide sensation.

Offering affordable and convenient meals, instant ramen provided sustenance to millions across the globe.

Ando’s innovation bridged cultural divides, introducing people worldwide to the flavors of Japan while addressing the need for accessible food options.

His legacy as a culinary pioneer continues to resonate, symbolizing the power of innovation to shape and enrich global gastronomic landscapes.

5. Kenzo Takada, The Kimono King of 麻豆APP

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Kenzo Takada, the kimono king of 麻豆APP, reshaped the fashion landscape with his innovative designs blending Japanese aesthetics and 麻豆APPian chic.

Establishing the Kenzo brand, Takada introduced Japanese elements to the global fashion scene, captivating audiences with his vibrant colors and bold patterns.

His pioneering fusion of East and West influenced fashion trends and inspired generations of designers worldwide.

Takada’s legacy as a cultural icon extends beyond the runway, symbolizing the power of cross-cultural exchange and creativity to transcend boundaries and shape global perceptions of style and beauty.

6. Hiroshima Carp, Baseball Ambassadors of Peace

The Hiroshima Carp baseball team, emerging from the ashes of tragedy after the atomic bombing, embodies the resilience and spirit of Hiroshima.

Their journey from devastation to triumph serves as a beacon of hope and reconciliation, resonating globally as a symbol of peace.

Through their dedication to the sport, the Carp inspire people worldwide with their message of unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.

As ambassadors of peace, they transcend the boundaries of sport, fostering understanding and healing in communities touched by conflict and strife.

The Hiroshima Carp stand as living testament to the enduring power of resilience and reconciliation.

7. Haruki Murakami, The Literary Enigma

Courtesy of YouTube

Haruki Murakami, the literary enigma, has captivated readers globally with his surreal and introspective novels.

Works like “Norwegian Wood” and “Kafka on the Shore” have introduced audiences to contemporary Japanese literature, transcending cultural barriers to explore universal themes of identity, alienation, and the human condition.

Murakami’s unique blend of magical realism and existential introspection has sparked profound discussions and inspired a devoted following around the world.

Through his enigmatic narratives, Murakami has become a cultural icon, reshaping perceptions of Japanese literature and enriching the global literary landscape with his thought-provoking storytelling.

8. Marie Kondo, The Tidying Guru

Marie Kondo, the tidying guru, has revolutionized home organization with her KonMari method, transcending cultural boundaries to become a global phenomenon.

Through her simple yet transformative approach to decluttering, Kondo has empowered people worldwide to streamline their homes and lives, sparking joy and promoting mindfulness in the process.

Her philosophy of cherishing items that bring happiness and letting go of those that do not has resonated deeply with individuals from diverse cultures, inspiring a renewed appreciation for simplicity and orderliness.

Kondo’s influence extends far beyond tidying; it’s a testament to the universal desire for clarity and harmony in an increasingly chaotic world.

9. Nintendo, The Gaming Giant

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Nintendo, the gaming giant headquartered in Japan, has profoundly impacted global culture with its iconic video game characters.

Characters like Mario, Link, and Pikachu have garnered adoration from players worldwide, influencing not only the gaming industry but also shaping pop culture for generations.

Nintendo’s innovative games and consoles have redefined entertainment standards, captivating audiences with immersive storytelling and interactive experiences.

Through its creativity and ingenuity, Nintendo continues to inspire generations of gamers and creators, cementing its legacy as a cultural icon synonymous with Japanese innovation and imagination on a global scale.

10. Hatsune Miku, The Virtual Pop Star

Hatsune Miku, the virtual pop star, has transcended traditional notions of fame, captivating audiences worldwide as a computer-generated singer.

Miku’s rise to stardom has blurred the lines between reality and fiction, pioneering a new era of virtual entertainment.

With her distinct voice and captivating performances, Miku has amassed a dedicated fan base and influenced the music industry’s landscape.

Her success has inspired a new generation of virtual entertainers, showcasing the potential of technology to redefine creativity and artistic expression.

Miku’s global phenomenon underscores Japan’s innovative spirit and cultural influence, demonstrating the power of virtual idols to captivate hearts across borders.

11.  Akira Kurosawa, The Master Filmmaker

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Issey Miyake, the pleats pioneer, has revolutionized the fashion industry with his avant-garde designs.

Renowned for his innovative use of pleats and unconventional materials, Miyake’s creations defy conventional fashion norms, pushing boundaries and inspiring designers globally.

Through his bold experimentation and artistic vision, Miyake has reshaped perceptions of fashion, transforming clothing into works of art.

His designs embody a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, captivating audiences with their fluidity and sculptural forms.

Miyake’s influence extends far beyond the runway, sparking creativity and redefining the possibilities of garment construction. His legacy as a visionary designer continues to inspire and captivate the world of fashion.

12. Issey Miyake, The Pleats Pioneer

Issey Miyake, the pleats pioneer, has revolutionized the fashion industry with his avant-garde designs.

Renowned for his innovative use of pleats and unconventional materials, Miyake’s creations defy conventional fashion norms, pushing boundaries and inspiring designers globally.

Through his bold experimentation and artistic vision, Miyake has reshaped perceptions of fashion, transforming clothing into works of art.

His designs embody a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, captivating audiences with their fluidity and sculptural forms.

Miyake’s influence extends far beyond the runway, sparking creativity and redefining the possibilities of garment construction.

His legacy as a visionary designer continues to inspire and captivate the world of fashion.

13. Ryunosuke Akutagawa, The Literary Master

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Ryunosuke Akutagawa, the literary master, crafted timeless masterpieces of Japanese literature, including “Rashomon” and “In the Grove.”

These profound short stories delve into the complexities of morality, perception, and the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on readers worldwide.

Akutagawa’s exploration of existential themes and psychological depth has inspired writers across generations, influencing the literary landscape with his profound insights and narrative craftsmanship.

Through his evocative storytelling and keen observation of human nature, Akutagawa continues to captivate audiences, inviting them to ponder the intricacies of life and morality.

His legacy as a literary genius endures, enriching the world of literature with his enduring contributions.

14. Yasuo Matsui, The Baseball Legend

Yasuo Matsui, the baseball legend, made a significant impact on the sport through his success in Major League Baseball (MLB).

Playing for renowned teams like the New York Yankees, Matsui’s skill and determination helped popularize baseball in Japan and inspired countless young athletes globally.

His stellar performance on the international stage served as a source of pride for Japanese baseball fans and encouraged aspiring players worldwide to pursue their dreams.

Matsui’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the field, symbolizing the power of dedication and perseverance in transcending cultural boundaries and uniting fans of the beloved sport across continents.

15. Miyazawa Kenji, The Poet and Storyteller

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Miyazawa Kenji, the poet and storyteller, is celebrated for his enchanting children’s stories infused with themes of nature and compassion.

His literary works, such as “Night on the Galactic Railroad” and “Ginga Tetsudō no Yoru,” transport readers to magical realms where imagination intertwines with profound philosophical insights.

Kenji’s tales resonate deeply with audiences of all ages, imparting timeless lessons about kindness, empathy, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Through his evocative storytelling, Kenji continues to inspire wonder and contemplation, leaving an enduring legacy as one of Japan’s most beloved literary figures whose influence transcends generations.

16. Yōji Yamamoto, The Avant-garde Fashion Designer

Yohji Yamamoto, the avant-garde fashion designer, has redefined the fashion landscape with his daring and deconstructed clothing aesthetic.

Renowned for his signature dark color palette and unconventional silhouettes, Yamamoto’s designs defy traditional fashion norms, pushing boundaries and inspiring designers globally.

His innovative approach to form and silhouette has revolutionized the industry, sparking a paradigm shift in the perception of beauty and style.

Through his visionary creations, Yamamoto continues to challenge fashion conventions, encouraging self-expression and individuality.

His legacy as a trailblazer in avant-garde fashion endures, leaving an indelible mark on the world of haute couture and shaping the future of design.

17. Hiromi Uehara, The Jazz Pianist

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Hiromi Uehara, the jazz pianist, has garnered international acclaim for her unparalleled virtuosity and innovative fusion of jazz with Japanese influences.

Renowned for her electrifying performances and boundless creativity, Hiromi’s music transcends cultural boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide.

Her dynamic compositions and intricate improvisations showcase a mastery of the piano that inspires aspiring musicians across the globe.

With her bold experimentation and infectious energy, Hiromi continues to push the boundaries of jazz, redefining the genre and leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.

Her legacy as a pioneering jazz artist serves as an inspiration for future generations of musicians to come.

18. Hayao Kawai, The Filmmaker

Hayao Kawai, the filmmaker, has crafted animated masterpieces such as “Millennium Actress” and “Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya),” delving into profound themes of memory, identity, and adolescence.

His captivating narratives and rich character development resonate deeply with audiences worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries.

Through his evocative storytelling and poignant exploration of the human experience, Kawai’s films provoke thought and stir emotions, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

His ability to capture the essence of life’s complexities has earned him international acclaim, inspiring audiences to reflect on their own memories, identities, and journeys through life.

19. Takeshi Kitano, The Filmmaker and Comedian

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Takeshi Kitano, the filmmaker and comedian, has made a profound mark on cinema with his distinctive style, blending elements of violence, humor, and surrealism in films like “Violent Cop” and “Kikujiro.”

His daring approach to storytelling and visual aesthetics has captivated audiences globally, earning him international acclaim and inspiring filmmakers worldwide.

Kitano’s ability to seamlessly fuse different genres and themes reflects his creative genius and artistic vision.

Through his groundbreaking work, he has pushed the boundaries of cinema, challenging conventions and reshaping the landscape of contemporary filmmaking.

Kitano’s legacy as a visionary filmmaker and comedian continues to influence and inspire generations of cineastes around the world.

20. Rei Kawakubo, The Fashion Designer

Rei Kawakubo, the visionary fashion designer behind Comme des Gar?ons, has revolutionized the fashion industry with her avant-garde creations.

Renowned for challenging conventional beauty standards, Kawakubo’s designs defy expectations with their deconstructed and unconventional aesthetic.

Through her bold experimentation and innovative approach to fashion, she has not only influenced trends but also redefined the very essence of style.

Comme des Gar?ons’ impact on the fashion world extends beyond the runway, inspiring designers to push boundaries and embrace creativity.

Kawakubo’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to shape the future of fashion, emphasizing individuality, innovation, and the power of self-expression.