Higashi

Higashi is a Japanese surname derived from the word higashi, meaning "east" in Japanese. It is written with the kanji 東, which directly translates to "east." This surname, like many Japanese surnames, is topographic in origin, originally given to individuals who lived to the east of a particular landmark, settlement, or region. It reflects a common practice in Japan where surnames were derived from geographic features, directions, or administrative locations.

Higashi can also be a rōmaji transcription of the Japanese word ひがし, which is the kun'yomi (native Japanese reading) of the character 東. While not among the most common Japanese surnames, it is well-recognized both in Japan and abroad. The name follows a broader pattern in Japanese naming conventions, where directional surnames like Nishi (west), Kita (north), and Minami (south) also exist.

According to data from the 2010 United States Census, Higashi is the 22,404th most common surname in the United States, held by 1,149 individuals. With the Japanese diaspora, particularly in the 20th century, the Higashi name spread to countries like the United States, Brazil, and elsewhere. In the U.S., it is most prevalent among Asian/Pacific Islander populations (76.33%), followed by those identifying as Multi-racial (13.93%), indicating strong ties to the Japanese community. Other bearers may be found in Hawaii and the West Coast, regions with significant Japanese-American populations.

Notable individuals with the surname include Japanese sports figures such as judoka Toshiya Higashi and baseball player Kazushige Higashi. It also appears in the names of established Japanese institutions and businesses, such as the famous cake shop Higashiya in Ginza.

• Meaning: "east"
• Origin: Japanese, topographic
• Type: Surname
• Regions: Japan, diaspora primarily in the Americas