Ueda (surname)

The surname Ueda (上田) is a common Japanese surname. It is typically written with the kanji 上 (ue) meaning "above," "up," or "on," and 田 (da) meaning "rice field." As a place name, Ueda refers to an area or location situated near or on a rice field elevated relative to its surroundings.

The surname is found throughout Japan but is more prevalent in certain regions. Like many Japanese surnames originating from place names, it likely arose independently in multiple locations.

Notable people with the surname Ueda include:

• Individuals from various fields such as academics, arts, entertainment, and sports. Specific prominent figures bearing the Ueda surname can be researched independently.

The prevalence of the name can be attributed to the historical importance of agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, in Japanese society. The geographical description implied by the kanji combination is a common feature of Japanese surnames.