Ōkawara

Ōkawara (大河原) is a Japanese surname. It is a relatively common surname found throughout Japan, with a higher concentration in eastern regions of the country. The name likely originates from a geographical location, referring to a large (大, ō) riverbed or plain (河原, kawara). 河原 (kawara) specifically denotes a dry riverbed or gravel bank. Therefore, Ōkawara could indicate that the family originally lived near or were associated with a significant dry riverbed.

As a surname, Ōkawara is not associated with any particular historical clan or prominent figure that elevates its significance beyond a standard topographical naming convention. Many Japanese surnames are derived from landscape features or place names.