Taniguchi (Japanese: 谷口) is a common Japanese surname.
Etymology and Meaning
The name Taniguchi is derived from two kanji characters:
- 谷 (tani): meaning "valley"
- 口 (kuchi or guchi): meaning "mouth" or "entrance" Thus, the surname literally translates to "mouth of the valley" or "valley entrance," often referring to a location at the opening or confluence of a valley.
Distribution
Taniguchi is a widespread surname throughout Japan, particularly prevalent in certain regions, reflecting its geographic origin.
Notable People
Individuals of note with the surname Taniguchi include:
- Jiro Taniguchi (1947–2017), acclaimed Japanese manga artist known for works such as The Walking Man and A Journal of My Father.
- Goro Taniguchi (born 1966), Japanese anime director, best known for directing Code Geass and Planetes.
- Masaharu Taniguchi (1893–1985), Japanese spiritual leader and founder of the Seicho-no-Ie religious movement.
- Yoshio Taniguchi (born 1937), prominent Japanese architect, notable for his redesign of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.
- Shinichiro Taniguchi (born 1957), Japanese professional golfer.
- Moe Taniguchi (born 1999), Japanese idol and former member of AKB48.
Places
The surname is also associated with several places in Japan:
- Taniguchi Station: A railway station located in Ayase, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
- Various geographic locations, neighborhoods, and small towns across Japan may bear the name Taniguchi.