Himawari Nohara

Bo Suzuki
Known for	Friend of Shinnosuke Nohara in Crayon Shin-chan

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 the older brother of Himawari, commonly called "Shin-chan." He favors chocolate biscuits and enjoys characters such as "Action Kamen" and "Kantum Robot," but dislikes green peppers. Sharing traits like stubbornness and a hearty appetite with his parents, he is particularly known for his shamelessness, blunt speech, and fascination with humor related to buttocks. Due to his young age, he frequently mispronounces words and engages in jokes that are inappropriate for his age, including scatological gags and mooning. Despite his crude antics, he demonstrates sincere affection and occasional moments of maturity. In various localized versions, he is referred to as Shin-chan Nohara or Shin Nohara. Julian Ryall described him as the "Japanese Bart Simpson."

Misae Nohara

Mother of Shinnosuke hailing from Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. She is nurturing but imperfect—frugal by nature yet ready to indulge her children when possible. During financial difficulties, she secretly saves money for household expenses. She experiences jealousy over Hiroshi’s interactions with others. Limited by her lack of computer proficiency and English skills, she sometimes takes on part-time work but struggles to keep jobs due to her temper. In different dubs, she is known as Mitsy, Mitzi, or Mitsi Nohara.

Hiroshi Nohara

Shinnosuke’s father, originally from near Omagari in Akita Prefecture, who graduated from Waseda University. As the family’s sole earner, he works as a low-ranking manager at Futaba Corporation located in Kasumigaseki. He embodies the archetypal Japanese salaryman lifestyle characterized by long work hours and frequent overtime. All his income is handed over to Misae for family expenses, though disputes often arise between them concerning finances and his golf hobby, which she disapproves of. He is called Harry or Hiro Nohara in various adaptations.

Himawari Nohara

The youngest child in the Nohara family and Shinnosuke’s sister. Her name means "sunflower," a choice made by the audience. She is lively and precocious, displaying mischievous tendencies much like her brother despite her parents’ hopes for otherwise. Though siblings often compete, they share a close bond. In several dubs, she is referred to as Daisy or Hima Nohara.

Shiro

A white Maltese puppy adopted by Shinnosuke after being left behind by previous owners. Exhibiting intelligence and reasoning abilities beyond those of his family members’ understanding, he is frequently overlooked yet adept at scavenging for food. He acts protectively toward Himawari. Known as Lucky or Whitey in different versions; Funimation adds a British voiceover along with a backstory involving a deceased brother.

Toru Kazama

One of Shinnosuke’s friends who secretly regards him as his closest companion despite their frequent quarrels. He attends cram school with ambitions to enter an elite primary school and excels in football and baseball but conceals these interests to appear more mature. Deeply attached to his mother due to his father’s frequent overseas absences. Occasionally looks down on Shinnosuke’s family background but envies his sibling and pet dog. Known as Cosmo or Georgie Herbert Walker Prescott III in various adaptations.

A female classmate of Shinnosuke’s at age five and the only girl in the Kasukabe Defence Force. She harbors a subtle crush on him. She uses a stuffed rabbit doll to vent her anger but adores rabbits overall. Competes with Ai for boys’ attention and enjoys role-playing scenes from Japanese dramas with friends. She is kind-hearted and protective toward her peers. Called Nini or Penny Milfer in different dubs; features a British accent in the LUK Internacional version.

A timid five-year-old boy with low confidence who is often teased but encouraged by Nene to be more assertive. He is an imaginative manga fan who values cleanliness and enjoys collecting items. He has feelings for Ai and feels jealous of Shinnosuke’s relationship with her but remains close friends with both children. Known as Max or Maso Sato across various versions.

Bo Suzuki or

A five-year-old boy who is Nisu’s brother and a close companion of Shinnosuke. Though slow-moving and stoic in demeanor, he possesses intelligence and enjoys gathering stones as well as investigating urban legends such as UFOs. Referred to as Boo in the Funimation dub; described as reminiscent of Dim from A Clockwork Orange or an Eeyore-like figure without depression. The Hindi dub avoided using his surname due to its similarity to the Maruti Suzuki brand name.

Supporting characters

Shinnosuke's homeroom teacher and spouse of Junichi Ishizaka, who competes with Ume Matsuzaka yet steps in to defend her during crucial situations. Her home doubles as the covert headquarters for the Kasukabe Defence Force, although she prohibits this after marriage. Referred to as Miss Dori Snell (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Anderson (Funimation).

Instructor of the Rose Class and Ishizaka’s adversary, originating from a rural farming family. She dreams of a luxurious lifestyle but faces financial hardships. Despite her dislike for Futaba Kindergarten and desire for a higher salary elsewhere, she remains employed there. Frequently unsuccessful in romantic pursuits, she briefly dates Tokurou. Known as Miss Uma (Vitello/Phuuz) and Rachel Katz (Funimation).

Teacher for the Sakura class who initially substitutes for Matsuzaka. She suffers from acrophobia and feels uneasy managing large groups of children. She dates Kuroiso, Ai’s bodyguard, with their relationship evolving from admiration to romance between manga and anime adaptations. Identified as Miss Agnes (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Polly (Funimation).

The principal of Futaba Kindergarten, possessing a yakuza-like appearance but a gentle disposition. He struggles with high blood pressure caused by stress related to staff and students. Named after renowned yakuza actors. Known as Principal Enzo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Principal Bernoulli Ench (Funimation), where he is portrayed as a half-Peruvian gypsy ex-magician.

Hiroshi’s father and Shinnosuke’s grandfather, sharing a flirtatious nature similar to his son and grandson. He visits frequently, often overstaying his welcome to Misae’s annoyance. More adept with technology than other family members. Known as Gary (Vitello/Phuuz) and Gin (Funimation).

Hiroshi’s mother and Shinnosuke’s grandmother, generally more sensible but occasionally participates in her husband’s antics.

Misae’s father and maternal grandfather of Shinnosuke, a retired educator with strict expectations for public behavior that sometimes clash with Ginnosuke. Initially disapproves of Hiroshi but eventually accepts him. Known as Waldo (Vitello/Phuuz), Yoshi Koyama (Funimation), Yoshio Koyama (Indian dub).

Misae’s mother and grandmother to Shinnosuke, frequently quarrels with Yoshiji and looks down on Ginnosuke while maintaining a good relationship with Tsuru.

Misae’s younger sister who is an amateur photographer aspiring to become professional. Her childlike demeanor allows her to connect well with neighborhood children. After family disputes, she lives with Misae and works at the Kasukabe bookstore following an unsuccessful photography apprenticeship. Known as Musae Mausi (Indian dub) and Bitzi Koyama (Funimation).

"Ai-Chan"

A five-year-old girl originally from New York who enrolls at Futaba Kindergarten after moving to Japan by chance. She has affection for Shinnosuke that goes unnoticed; later relocates permanently to Hokkaido but makes occasional visits. Called Sally in the Phuuz dub.

A boy nicknamed "Cheetah" due to his leopard-print shirt, serving as leader of the Rose Class group alongside Hitoshi and Terunobu. He harbors dislike toward Shinnosuke and Kazama but shows kindness in significant moments.

A Rose class student who joins Terunobu in bullying Masao; remains unnamed in the Funimation dub as a second grader.

Another Rose class pupil who bullies Masao along with Hitoshi; also an unnamed second grader in Funimation dub.

Nene’s mother who is friends with Misae despite being annoyed by Shinnosuke's antics. She expresses anger through a stuffed rabbit toy similar to her daughter. Known as Ruby (Vitello/Phuuz) and Patty Milfer (Funimation). A recurring gag involves her desire for financial independence through brothel work.

Mother of Kazama who encourages him to participate in extracurricular activities such as football and English lessons. She maintains friendship with Misae, who envies her wealth and her son's good manners. Premature graying of her hair is implied. Known as Barbara Prescott in Funimation.

Masao’s mother closely resembles him.

{{nihongo|Kuroiso|黒磯|}

Ai-chan’s devoted bodyguard and chauffeur who dates Miss Ageo. Referred to as Mr. K in the Funimation dub.

A college student training to become a kindergarten teacher; Shinnosuke has a crush on her and modifies his behavior accordingly. Known as Miss Bono in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

A well-known author and Nanako’s overprotective father who disapproves of Shinnosuke's affections but collaborates to ensure Nanako's safety. In the Funimation dub called Will Cumton, reimagined as a wealthy vampire possessing supernatural abilities.

An aspiring professional wrestler and Nanako’s university friend inspired by real wrestler Shinobu Kandori. Develops feelings for neighbor Omata but ends the relationship to concentrate on wrestling career. Known as Griselda in Funimation dub.

Editor at Futaba Publishing/Mitsuba Publishing responsible for overseeing Shijuurou Oohara’s creations; known as Renfield in Funimation dub serving Vampire Will.

A 17-year-old leader of the Saitama Red Scorpions gang, exhibiting a tough exterior that conceals a gentle personality along with a secret passion for Sailor Moon cosplay.

Saitama Red Scorpions member recognized by her fish-eye mask; despite appearing stoic, she cares for her ill mother.

Saitama Red Scorpions member supportive of friends despite occasional clumsiness.

Hiroshi's colleague who admires him, frequently shares lunch breaks, and has a crush on junior Yumi Kusaka. Called Morty Giffel in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Hiroshi's boss

Manager supervising Hiroshi at his workplace.

Misae's 29-year-old friend from middle school married to Satoshi Honda.

Satoshi is Keiko's husband, an anime fan possessing numerous Action Mask collectibles. Known as Jim in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Keiko and Satoshi’s son

Hitoshi Honda

Fumie Mogamigawa

Keiko's niece who occasionally babysits Shinnosuke and Hitoshi.

Reiko Kitamoto

Neighbor who gossips with Misae; temporarily provides shelter to the Noharas after their home is destroyed and cares for their dog Shiro during apartment stays. Known as Goobers/Vitello & Phuuz, Yuka/Funimation.

Robert McGuire

Kitamoto's American nephew unfamiliar with Japanese customs taught by Shinnosuke—depicted variably across dubs including indoctrination storylines.

Yoshirin Hatogaya

Noharas’ next-door neighbor family arriving after Hawaii trip, having few friends, frequently visiting yet engaging in minor disputes. Known as Luis in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Micchi Hatogaya

Yoshirin's wife fond of horror films and dinosaur collections causing marriage tension resolved through advice from the Noharas. Known as Gidgy in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Nushiyo Ooya

The strict landlord of "Falling Apartments," protective over property inherited following late husband/daughter tragedy, also serves midwife assisting Midori’s childbirth in manga version. Called Manlady in Funimation dub.

Yonro

A neighbor working at a supermarket mistakenly believed by Noharas to be a Tokyo University student; supported despite failures and continues visiting after their return home. Portrayed stereotypically nerdy in Funimation dub.

Atsuko Kutsuzoko

An 18-year-old housewife residing opposite the Noharas with toddler daughter while husband works as truck driver; befriends Misae due to shared experience of motherhood. Known as Summer in Funimation dub depicted as an American valley girl searching for daughter's father.

Atsumi Kutsuzoko

Atsuko’s two-year-old daughter called Paris in Funimation dub portrayed differently as seven-year-old dwarf.

Yuu Yakutsukuri

Aspirant actress living at "Falling Apartments" practicing auditions through costume play supported by Shinnosuke until achieving television role success.

Junichi Ishizaka

Midori's easygoing 26-year-old spouse friendly toward Shinnosuke but lacking self-confidence. Known as Ricky/Vitello & Phuuz or Doyle/Funimation where he is telepathic popcorn salesman imprisoned after incident involving oversized popcorn machine resembling army colonel size.

Tokurou Gyouda

Ume Matsuzaka’s 28-year-old chiropractor/archaeologist boyfriend fascinated by bones met during hospital stay following leg injury—dies during African expedition exclusive to manga storyline.

Shiizou Atsukuru

21-year-old Futaba Kindergarten staff member portrayed variously as substitute or sports event intern with fiery teaching style masking rabbit phobia overcome through assistance from Shinnosuke. In Funimation dubbed The Flamer mutant recess teacher advocating natural selection aiming to eliminate normal students via fire powers.

Other characters

Takakura's spouse and the vice principal at Futaba Kindergarten.

Hiroshi’s sibling, a 40-year-old farmer and uncle to Shinnosuke and Himawari. Frequently engages in disputes with Hiroshi. Eventually weds Ikuna Ogano.

Misae’s elder sister, aged 35, and aunt to Shinnosuke and Himawari. Employed at the same middle school where their father taught Japanese literature. Graceful yet shares playful moments with Shinnosuke. Known as Minnie in the Vitello and Phuuz versions.

Nene’s father, an enthusiast of cherry blossom festivals who often invites the Nohara family. Called Bill Milfer in the Funimation dub, where his character is implied to have been abusive but undergoes reform following legal troubles.

An architect wealthier than most of Shinnosuke’s friends’ parents, frequently traveling abroad. Approachable and amiable with the Nohara family. Portrayed as an American diplomat in the Funimation adaptation.

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

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

Misae’s longtime friend and a manga artist by profession.

A timid talking pig from Shinnosuke’s imagination, set in ancient Japan. Permanently returns in 2016, voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya. A central figure in the "Crayon Wars" parody of Star Wars. Known as Big-a-zoid (Vitello/Phuuz), Brave Pig (LUK Internacional), and Ham Solo in the Funimation dub.

A live-action superhero parodying tokusatsu series like Kamen Rider. In the theatrical film, his origin is revised to being saved and empowered by Professor Kitakasukabe’s technology. A spin-off manga released in 2014 by Futabasha is available on Crunchyroll. Known as Masked Muchacho (Vitello/Phuuz), Action Kamen (Indian/Filipino dubs), and Action Bastard (Funimation).

Action Mask’s alter ego, a stuntman who investigates incidents involving "seeds" that transform people into monsters. Prefers intellect over violence to liberate hosts from hatred. The Funimation dub parodies Western superheroes in his backstory, naming him Bruce Bastard.

Action Mask’s assistant who supplies weapons and information but is often captured and requires rescue. Portrayed as an adult aide in the spin-off manga. Referred to as Loli Pop in the Funimation version.

The inventor behind Action Mask’s equipment; replaced by Professor Kitakasukabe in spin-offs. Called Doc in Funimation dub.

Action Mask’s robotic nemesis leading the Black MekeMeke Group, possessing advanced capabilities along with two lesser versions.

Black MekeMeke Group Members

• – Female with a heart-shaped head covering.
• – Chimpanzee admiral accompanied by his son Yankikki.
• – Insectoid humanoid.
• – Humanoid iguana swordsman.

Leader of the Sparrow Group during the "Action Mask Fever" storyline, Mimiko’s brainwashed elder brother Phillippe. His costume references Gatchaman. Known as Flying Pecker in Funimation dub.

The mastermind behind Sparrow Group and a mad scientist, previously acquainted with Professor Gō. Called Dr. Hitlerclone with a German accent in Funimation dub.

A villain exhibiting chivalry toward women, especially Mimiko. Regarded as handsome by Misae and Himawari, enhancing his appeal during appearances. Known as The Deflowerer in Funimation dub.

Additional spin-off characters

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

Shinnosuke’s beloved mecha anime character parodying mecha genre and Gundam. Composed of two units piloted together. Known as Psycho Robotico (Vitello/Phuuz) and Robo Grinder (Funimation).

Human partner to Kantam aiding robot control and transformations.

The principal antagonist of Kantam Robo leading the Midnight Secret Society.

Kantam’s rival sibling working under President Gilkilos.

SHIN-MEN Members

• – Fire-powered member known for laziness but fights to impress women.
• – Leader endowed with wind abilities and flight.
• – Iron-bodied shapeshifter prone to reckless actions.
• – Water-powered jokester requiring hydration.
• – Plant-powered but dependent on water.

Other characters

• – Owner of a ramen shop caring for Gou.
• – Spoiled child obsessed with Western/ninja films who unsuccessfully courts Nene.
• – Truck driver husband of Atsuko appearing only in manga.
• & – Undercover narcotics officers posing as father-son or gay couple in Funimation dub; Oda is implied to have feelings for Nigariya.
• – Daughter of Midori and Junichi appearing only in manga.
• & – Ume’s older sisters competing for her suitors, dressed traditionally and Western-style respectively.
• & – Fictional magical girl parodies secretly admired by Kazama.
• – Shin-chan’s toy monster parodying Godzilla.
• – College student frequently losing jobs due to Shinnosuke's antics, later employed at Action Department Store's lost child section.
• – Shinnosuke’s kendo instructor depicted as paranoid schizophrenic in Funimation dub.
• – Newscaster regularly viewed by Misae, known as Sam Donarshin in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.
• – Renowned manga artist neighbor inspired by Shinnosuke, named after series creator Yoshito Usui's reversed initials.
• – Manga creator making cameo appearances dressed colorfully singing karaoke.
• – Door-to-door saleswoman with intimidating demeanor that reduces sales; initially voiced male causing cross-dressing confusion later corrected due to concerns about transphobia.
• – Punching bag toy used by Nene and her mother that occasionally comes alive under red moonlight seeking revenge. Known as Happiness Bunny in Funimation dub.
• – Future girl resembling but opposite to Shinnosuke—tactful and empathetic.
• – Shin Chan's adversary emerging from Tokyo Bay defeated chemically.