Sho is an alternate transcription of Japanese kanji such as 翔 (shō) meaning "soar, glide", 奨 (shō) meaning "prize, reward", or 祥 (shō) meaning "good luck, good omen". It is essentially a variant of Shō, which can also be romanized as Shou. This article focuses on forms that appear with the simple spelling “Sho”. The name is historically masculine in usage, though kanji can be chosen for various aspirations for a child’s future. Notable Bearers Notable Japanese individuals named Sho from sports, entertainment, and beyond include: Sho Kosugi (ショー・コスギ), a renowned martial artist and actor who popularized ninja films in the 1980s. Sho Sakurai (櫻井 翔), a member of the popular boy band Arashi, known as a singer, songwriter, and newscaster. Sho Hirano (平野 紫耀), actor and former idol. Sho Nakata (中田 翔), a baseball player for the Nippon-Ham Fighters and later in MLB. Sho Kimura (木村 翔), a professional boxer and former WBO flyweight champion. Cultural Context The spreading in Japan for a single Kanji is common. They prize ease of writing, simplicity, and positive meanings in daily life. Selected lucky to bring soaring potential, success or good fortune to the child. A variant appears across several Japan region and cultural sphere recording groups include many celebrity ones.