Which writing system (hiragana, katakana, or kanji) should we use when writing out someone's name?


I know how to read hiragana and katakana, but know nothing else. A lot of
people I know want me to write their names in Japanese. Is it right to write
them in any system, or are there specific rules?




Names of Japanese people have a specific spelling that may be in hiragana,
katakana, kanji, or any mix thereof. You should spell their name as it is
spelled, e.g. 「田中けい子」 (TANAKA Keiko).

Names of foreigners are written in katakana, unless they have decided on the
equivalent kanji they want to use. Or if they ask you to choose the kanji then
do so paying attention not only to sound but also meaning when selecting them.




Names of Japanese people have a specific spelling that may be in hiragana,
katakana, kanji, or any mix thereof. You should spell their name as it is
spelled, e.g. 「田中けい子」 (TANAKA Keiko).

Names of foreigners are written in katakana, unless they have decided on the
equivalent kanji they want to use. Or if they ask you to choose the kanji then
do so paying attention not only to sound but also meaning when selecting them.

