Meaning: The surname 姚 ('Yáo') originates from the legendary Emperor Shun of ancient China, who was born in Yaoxu (present-day Heze, Shandong). The name 姚 itself means 'beautiful woman.' This surname carries a long history and profound cultural significance.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.51 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.101 place
Yao Qiyin (姚奇胤)
A late Ming dynasty scholar and official from Qiantang, Zhejiang, who served as a county magistrate and military officer, and died defending Ganzhou against the Qing army.
Yao Lü (姚旅)
a Ming Dynasty scholar from Hanjiang, Putian, known for his work 'Lu Shu'.
Yao Youzhi (姚友直)
A Ming Dynasty official who became a Jinshi in 1397, holding various positions including Secretary of the Central Secretariat and eventually rising to the role of Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices.
The surname 姚 traces back to Emperor Shun, one of China’s earliest rulers, and means 'beautiful woman.' It’s a rare yet ancient name with deep historical roots.