Buriburizaemon

Main characters

(野原 新之助)

A kindergartener aged five and a member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. He is the son of Hiroshi and Misae and elder brother to Himawari, commonly referred to by the nickname "Shin-chan." His preferred snacks are chocolate biscuits, and he admires fictional heroes such as "Action Kamen" and "Kantum Robot." Exhibiting traits inherited from his parents, including stubbornness and an interest in adult magazines, he is particularly notable for his brazen attitude, candid speech, and fascination with humor centered around buttocks. His young age contributes to difficulties in reading and speaking clearly, often leading him to engage in immature jokes and antics like mooning. Despite his crude demeanor, he displays sincere affection for his family and occasional glimpses of maturity. In several international versions, he is known as Shin-chan Nohara and has been likened to the "Japanese Bart Simpson."

Misae Nohara

Mother of Shinnosuke, originally from Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. She balances care with frugality and can be quick-tempered at times. Secretly saving money for household expenses, she occasionally indulges in treating her children despite financial limitations. She lacks computer skills and English proficiency. Although she takes on part-time jobs occasionally, her temper hampers her ability to sustain employment. In various dubbed editions, she is called Mitsy, Mitzi, or Mitsi Nohara.

Hiroshi Nohara

Shinnosuke’s father hailing from near Omagari in Akita Prefecture, an alumnus of Waseda University. As the sole breadwinner, he holds a junior management position at Futaba Corporation located in Kasumigaseki. He dedicates long hours to work and entrusts his entire paycheck to Misae for managing family finances. His pastime is golf, which sometimes causes tension with Misae due to her perception of it as a waste of time. In various dubs, he is referred to as Harry or Hiro Nohara.

Himawari Nohara

The youngest child in the Nohara family and Shinnosuke’s sister, a name given by viewers. She is lively and precocious, sharing her brother’s mischievous streak despite her parents’ hopes for a different temperament. Although they have typical sibling rivalries, she maintains a close bond with Shinnosuke. Known as Daisy or Hima Nohara in different dubbed versions.

Shiro

A white Maltese puppy that Shinnosuke adopted after finding him abandoned. Intelligent and protective toward Himawari, he often goes unnoticed while quietly assisting the family. In various dubs, he is called Lucky or Whitey; the latter version includes a British narration and references a deceased sibling.

Toru Kazama

One of Shinnosuke’s friends who attends supplementary classes aiming for entry into an elite elementary school. He projects an air of knowledge but secretly enjoys sports and comic books. Due to his father’s frequent overseas absences, he remains attached to his mother and seeks association with affluent peers. Occasionally condescending toward Shinnosuke’s lower socioeconomic background, he envies the close relationships Shinnosuke shares with his siblings. Known as Cosmo or Georgie Herbert Walker Prescott III in various dubs.

A five-year-old female classmate of Shinnosuke’s and his only female best friend. She is known for being headstrong and harbors a secret crush on him. She enjoys reenacting scenes from Japanese dramas and uses a stuffed bunny toy as an outlet for anger. Kind-hearted and loyal, she competes with Ai for popularity among boys. Called Nini or Penny Milfer in different dubbed adaptations.

A shy five-year-old boy with low self-confidence who receives encouragement from Nene to be more assertive. He is imaginative and neat, passionate about manga, and harbors feelings for Ai while feeling jealous of Shinnosuke’s closeness with her. Known as Max or Maso Sato in various dubs.

Bo Suzuki or

A five-year-old boy counted among Shinnosuke’s close friends, characterized by a slow yet intelligent demeanor. He enjoys collecting stones and exploring urban legends such as UFO sightings. Referred to as Boo in the Funimation dub; originally named Suzuki in Hindi dubs but renamed due to trademark conflicts with Maruti Suzuki.

Supporting characters

Shinnosuke’s classroom instructor and spouse of Junichi Ishizaka. She competes with Ume Matsuzaka but steps in to defend her during critical situations. After marriage, she forbids Shinnosuke and his friends from using her residence as the Kasukabe Defence Force headquarters. Referred to as Miss Dori Snell (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Anderson (Funimation).

Rose Class educator and Ishizaka’s rival originating from a rural area. Despite aspiring to live lavishly, she faces financial hardships and resides in an inexpensive apartment. Although dissatisfied with Futaba Kindergarten, she stays despite receiving other offers. Her romantic endeavors frequently fail; she eventually dates Tokurou but their relationship concludes. Known as Miss Uma (Vitello/Phuuz) and Rachel Katz (Funimation).

Sakura Class teacher who initially served as a temporary replacement for Matsuzaka. She is afraid of heights and becomes anxious around large groups. She dates Ai’s bodyguard, Kuroiso, with her reasons for dating differing between manga and anime adaptations. Identified as Miss Agnes (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Polly (Funimation).

Principal of Futaba Kindergarten, featuring a yakuza-like appearance but possessing a kind-hearted personality. He experiences high blood pressure due to stress caused by both staff and students. His name is inspired by renowned yakuza actors. Known as Principal Enzo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Principal Bernoulli Ench (Funimation), with the latter version having a unique backstory.

Hiroshi’s father and Shinnosuke’s grandfather, infamous for his flirtatious nature similar to his son and grandson. He frequently visits and tends to overstay his welcome. More technologically adept than other family members. Called Gary in Vitello/Phuuz and "Gin" in Funimation.

Wife of Hiroshi and grandmother to Shinnosuke, she is more sensible compared to Ginnosuke but occasionally indulges in his antics.

Misae’s father and maternal grandfather to Shinnosuke, a retired educator known for his strictness which often leads to conflicts with Ginnosuke. Initially disapproves of Hiroshi but later comes to accept him.

Misae’s mother, frequently at odds with Yoshiji and critical of Ginnosuke’s behavior, although she maintains a friendly relationship with Tsuru.

Misae’s younger sister who aspires to become a professional photographer. Following disputes about her career goals, she moves in with Misae and later works at the Kasukabe bookstore. Known as Musae Mausi in the Indian dub and Bitzi Koyama in Funimation.

"Ai-Chan"

A five-year-old girl formerly residing in New York who enrolls at Futaba Kindergarten after relocating to Japan. She harbors affection for Shinnosuke, exploiting his vulnerabilities to attract his attention, though he remains unaware. Eventually moves to Hokkaido but visits occasionally. Known as Sally in the Phuuz dub.

Leader of the Rose Class group nicknamed "Cheetah" due to his leopard-patterned shirt. Often opposes Shinnosuke but occasionally displays kindness.

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Two aggressive students from Rose Class who bully Masao. In the Funimation version, they appear as unnamed second graders.

Nene’s mother who is irritated by Shinnosuke yet maintains friendship with Misae. Known as Ruby (Vitello/Phuuz) and Patty Milfer (Funimation). A recurring theme involves her wish to leave an abusive marriage in pursuit of financial independence.

Kazama’s mother who encourages her son’s participation in extracurricular activities and is envied by Misae for both her wealth and well-behaved child. Known as Barbara Prescott in Funimation.

Masao’s mother who bears a strong resemblance to him.

Ai-chan’s devoted bodyguard and driver who dates Miss Ageo. Known as Mr. K in Funimation.

A university student training to become a kindergarten teacher and Shinnosuke’s love interest, notable for being unaffected by his antics.

Nanako’s overprotective father, a well-known author who disapproves of Shinnosuke’s feelings but collaborates to safeguard Nanako.

Nanako’s friend aspiring to be a professional wrestler, called Griselda in Funimation.

Editor at Futaba Publishing inspired by the manga's real-life editor-in-chief, referred to as Renfield in Funimation.

Leader of the Saitama Red Scorpions gang, tough yet kindhearted with a secret hobby of cosplaying Sailor Moon characters.

Other notable supporting roles include members of the Saitama Red Scorpions such as Ogin Uonome ("Fish-eyed Ogin") and Mary; Hiroshi's colleagues Kawaguchi and his superior; Keiko Honda with her husband Satoshi and their son Hitoshi; babysitter Fumie Mogamigawa; neighbors Reiko Kitamoto and Robert McGuire; the Hatogaya family neighbors Yoshirin and Micchi; landlord Nushiyo Ooya of Falling Apartments known for enforcing strict regulations; resident Yonro who works at a supermarket; young housewife Atsuko Kutsuzoko along with her daughter Atsumi; aspiring actress Yuu Yakutsukuri residing at Falling Apartments; Midori's husband Junichi Ishizaka—called Ricky or Doyle in various dubs—who exhibits distinctive character traits; Ume Matsuzaka’s boyfriend Tokurou Gyouda who dies in the manga but survives in the anime adaptation; and Shiizou Atsukuru—a passionate temporary teacher overcoming his fear of rabbits with Shinnosuke's assistance—known as The Flamer in Funimation, possessing mutant abilities.

Other characters

Takakura's spouse, serving as the vice principal at Futaba Kindergarten.

Hiroshi’s sibling and uncle to Shinnosuke and Himawari. A farmer who frequently disputes with Hiroshi. Eventually weds Ikuna Ogano, mother to Itsuki and Natsuki.

Misae’s elder sister and aunt to Shinnosuke and Himawari. Employed at the same middle school where their father once taught. Dresses elegantly but shares mischievous traits with Shinnosuke. Known as Minnie in Vitello and Phuuz versions.

Nene’s father, enthusiastic about cherry blossom festivals and often invites the Nohara family. Referred to as Bill Milfer in the Funimation dub, where he is suggested to have been abusive but later reforms following legal troubles.

An architect wealthier than most parents of Shinnosuke’s peers, frequently traveling abroad. Friendly and easygoing with the Nohara family. Portrayed as an American diplomat in the Funimation version.

A salaryman who was formerly part of a rock band prior to marriage.

Appears solely once in the manga; absent from the anime adaptation.

Misae’s longtime friend and professional manga artist.

A cowardly talking pig imagined by Shinnosuke but treated as a real character. Prominently featured in "Crayon Wars," a parody of Star Wars. Known as Big-a-zoid (Vitello/Phuuz) and Brave Pig (LUK Internacional). Called Ham Solo in Funimation’s "Shin Wars."

A live-action superhero parodying tokusatsu series such as Kamen Rider. The theatrical film revises his origin, portraying him as rescued by Professor Kitakasukabe and empowered through technology. A spin-off manga began serialization in 2014 within Monthly Action Magazine and is accessible on Crunchyroll outside Japan. Known by various names: Masked Muchacho (Vitello/Phuuz), Action Kamen (Indian dub), Action Mask (Filipino dub), and Action Bastard (Funimation).

Action Mask’s alter ego, a stuntman who investigates cases involving "seeds" that transform people into monsters fueled by hatred. He prefers solving problems through logic rather than violence. Called Bruce Bastard in Funimation dub, with a parody origin referencing Batman, Superman, and Spider-Man.

Sidekick to Action Mask who supplies weapons and intelligence but often ends up captured, requiring rescue. Acts as an adult assistant to Dr. Kitakasukabe in the spin-off manga. Known as Loli Pop in Funimation dub.

Inventor responsible for Action Mask’s equipment. Replaced by Professor Kitakasukabe in both the spin-off manga and film. Known as Doc in Funimation dub.

The intelligent robotic nemesis of Action Mask who leads the Black MekeMeke Group alongside two inferior versions.

Black MekeMeke Group members

• Sea Slug Secretary Bijou – distinguished by a heart-shaped headgear.
• Chimpan Admiral Monkikki – chimpanzee admiral accompanied by his son Yankikki.
• Mantis General Girigiri – humanoid resembling a praying mantis.
• Iguana Minister Zubizuba – humanoid iguana swordsman.

Leader of the Sparrow Group encountered during the "Action Mask Fever" storyline; Mimiko’s missing older brother Phillippe under mind control. His costume resembles Ken the Eagle from Science Ninja Team Gatchaman. Known as Flying Pecker in Funimation dub.

The brilliant mad scientist behind the Sparrow Group and antagonist of "Action Mask Fever". Previously acquainted with Professor Gō. Called Dr. Hitlerclone with a German accent in Funimation dub.

A gallant villain particularly courteous toward women, especially Mimiko. Portrayed by an actor admired by Misae and Himawari, which boosts Action Mask’s viewership during his episodes. Named The Deflowerer in Funimation dub.

Spin-off manga characters

• Misato Yashio – tokusatsu enthusiast who encounters Gō.
• Bal – ghostly figure assisting Gō’s transformations.

Shinnosuke’s favorite mecha anime character parodying Gundam. Composed of a main robot accompanied by smaller pilot robots. Known as Psycho Robotico (Vitello/Phuuz) and Robo Grinder (Funimation).

Human partner to Kantam aiding piloting and transformations.

{{nihongo|President Gilkilos|ギルキロス大統領|}

The primary antagonist of Kantam Robo and leader of the Midnight Secret Society.

{{nihongo|Kaizam Robo|}

Older brother and rival of Kantam working under President Gilkilos.

SHIN-MEN members

• Fire SHIN-MEN Gou – indolent but fights to impress women; controls fire.
• Wind SHIN-MEN Hyuu – team leader with wind abilities and flight.
• Iron SHIN-MEN Can – iron-bodied shapeshifter prone to recklessness.
• Water SHIN-MEN Sui – jokester whose powers depend on hydration.
• Plant SHIN-MEN Nyoki – plant-powered but reliant on water.

{{nihongo|Piroshi|}

Ramen shop proprietor who cares for Gou due to his laziness.

Additional characters

• Motohisa – spoiled child obsessed with Western/ninja films seeking Nene’s attention.
• Atsushi Kutsuzoko – truck driver married to Atsuko (manga only).
• Kyuji Oda & Kyousuke Nigariya – undercover narcotics agents posing as father-son (anime) or gay couple (Funimation), with subtle romantic implications.
• Momo Ishizaka – daughter of Midori and Junichi (manga only).
• Matsu Matsuzaka & Take Matsuzaka – Ume’s older sisters competing for male attention.
• Mysterious Magical Girl Mari-chan & Magical Girl Moe-P – fictional magical girl parodies secretly admired by Kazama.
• Shirimarudashi – fictional monster toy parodying Godzilla.
• Shinobu Sakai – college student frequently losing jobs due to Shinnosuke’s mischief.
• Kenta Musashino – 34-year-old kendo instructor to Shinnosuke, depicted as paranoid schizophrenic in Funimation dub.
• Razaya Dan – newscaster viewed by Misae, named after Dan Rather.
• Usuto Yoshii – renowned manga artist inspired by series creator Yoshito Usui.
• Yoshito Usui – original creator making cameo appearances often linked with karaoke scenes.
• Kuriyo Urima – door-to-door salesperson whose appearance frightens children, resulting in poor sales.
• Nene's stuffed bunny – used for venting anger; called Happiness Bunny in Funimation dub.
• Shinko-chan – future girl resembling Shinnosuke but more tactful and empathetic.
• Shin Godzilla – Shin Chan’s adversary emerging from Tokyo Bay defeated through chemical means.