Misae Nohara

Main characters

(野原 新之助)

A kindergarten boy aged five and a member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. He is the child of Hiroshi and Misae, and brother to Himawari, often called "Shin-chan". His favorite things include chocolate biscuits and characters such as "Action Kamen" and "Kantum Robot", while he dislikes green bell peppers. Shin-chan exhibits characteristics inherited from both parents: he shares his mother's gluttony and stubbornness, and his father's fascination with adult magazines and flirting. However, he stands apart by being shameless, outspoken, and fixated on humor involving buttocks, frequently making jokes and antics inappropriate for his age. Despite this, he genuinely cares for his family and occasionally displays maturity. In Vitello, Phuuz, and Indian versions, he is known as Shin-chan Nohara, while Funimation calls him Shin Nohara. Julian Ryall has dubbed him the "Japanese Bart Simpson".

Misae Nohara

Shinnosuke's mother hailing from Aso in Kumamoto prefecture. She is nurturing yet imperfect, frugal but willing to spend on her children when necessary. During financial difficulties, she secretly saves money to cover household expenses. She cannot operate computers or speak English fluently and sometimes takes local part-time jobs but struggles to keep them due to her temper. Her name appears as Mitsy Nohara in Vitello/Phuuz dubs, Mitzi Nohara in Funimation, and Mitsi Nohara in the Indian version.

Hiroshi Nohara

Originating from near Omagari in Akita prefecture, Hiroshi is Shinnosuke's father and a Waseda University alumnus. He is the family's sole breadwinner, employed as a low-ranking manager at Futaba Corporation located in Kasumigaseki. Typical of a Japanese salaryman, he often works overtime and hands over his earnings to Misae for household management. Financial disagreements and disputes over spending are common between him and Misae. An avid golfer, a hobby Misae views skeptically as a waste of time. Known as Harry Nohara in Vitello, Phuuz, and Indian dubs; Hiro Nohara in Funimation.

Himawari Nohara

Shinnosuke’s younger sister whose name means "sunflower," coined by fans. She is lively and precocious, maturing throughout the series while sharing her brother's playful spirit. Despite typical sibling rivalry, she remains close to Shinnosuke. Called Daisy Nohara in Vitello/Phuuz versions and Hima Nohara in Funimation.

Shiro

A white Maltese puppy adopted by Shinnosuke after being abandoned. He possesses intelligence surpassing that of his owners but is often neglected, leading him to fend for himself by scavenging. Protective especially of Himawari. Referred to as Lucky in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and Whitey in LUK International/Funimation versions; voiced with a British accent in Funimation.

Toru Kazama

Shinnosuke’s friend who secretly regards him as his closest companion despite frequent quarrels. He attends cram school aiming for admission into an elite elementary school and feigns academic excellence to maintain social standing. Talented in football and baseball but hides interests like animation to appear more mature. Deeply attached to his mother due to his father living abroad, which subjects him to teasing. Occasionally looks down on Shinnosuke’s modest economic background yet envies his family life. Called Cosmo in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and Georgie Herbert Walker Prescott III in Funimation, where he is portrayed with Republican traits.

A five-year-old girl who is Shinnosuke's classmate and only female best friend as well as the sole female member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. She harbors a subtle crush on Shinnosuke. Uses a stuffed bunny to calm herself when angry but has an affinity for rabbits generally. Competes with Ai for influence over boys and enjoys reenacting Japanese dramas ("real omamagoto"). Kind-hearted and protective towards her friends. Known as Nini in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and Penny Milfer in Funimation; voiced with a British accent in LUK Internacional dub.

A timid five-year-old boy with low self-confidence who is often teased by classmates; encouraged by Nene to stand up for himself. A creative manga artist who values cleanliness and collects various items. Loves Ai but feels jealous of her affection for Shinnosuke while maintaining close friendships with both. Called Max in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and Maso Sato in Funimation; Funimation likens him to "Linus without his blanket."

Bo Suzuki or

A five-year-old boy who is the brother of Nisu and one of Shinnosuke's close friends. Although slow-moving and stoic, he is intelligent with interests including stone collecting and investigating urban legends such as UFOs. Known as Boo in Funimation; described as "like Dim from A Clockwork Orange or Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh without depression." The Hindi dub initially used the surname Suzuki but later removed it due to its similarity with 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 times. Her home serves as the Kasukabe Defence Force headquarters for Shinnosuke and his friends until she prohibits this after marriage. Referred to as Miss Dori Snell (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Anderson (Funimation).

A 24-year-old educator of the Rose Class, hailing from a modest rural background, living simply despite a fondness for finer things. Although dissatisfied with Futaba Kindergarten and offered better pay elsewhere, she chooses to stay. She experiences a series of unsuccessful dates and briefly dates Tokurou, but that relationship ends. Known as Miss Uma (Vitello/Phuuz) and Rachel Katz (Funimation), portrayed as resentful about Anderson’s romantic involvement.

A 22-year-old teacher for the Sakura class who initially substitutes for Matsuzaka. She suffers from acrophobia and feels uneasy managing large groups. She dates Kuroiso, Ai's bodyguard; her motivations differ between manga and anime versions. Called Miss Agnes (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Polly (Funimation).

The principal of Futaba Kindergarten who is often misjudged due to his yakuza-like appearance but is genuinely kindhearted and optimistic. He endures high blood pressure caused by stress from staff and children. His name references well-known yakuza actors. Known as Principal Enzo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Principal Bernoulli Ench (Funimation), with varying portrayals.

Hiroshi’s father and Shinnosuke’s grandfather, notorious for his flirtatious nature similar to his son and grandson. He frequently visits, often overstaying to Misae’s annoyance. More technologically adept than other family members. Called "Gin" in Funimation and "Gary" in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

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

Misae’s strict father and Shinnosuke’s maternal grandfather, a retired educator with rigorous expectations that often spark disputes with Ginnosuke. Initially disapproving of Hiroshi but later comes to accept him. Known as Waldo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Yoshi Koyama (Funimation).

Misae’s mother and Shinnosuke’s grandmother, frequently quarrels with Yoshiji, disapproves of Ginnosuke but maintains a good relationship with Tsuru. The Funimation dub hints at prior suicidal thoughts.

Misae’s younger sister who aspires to be a professional photographer, residing with Misae following family disagreements. She works first as a photographer’s assistant then at the Kasukabe bookstore. She resists traditional expectations despite familial pressure. Known as Musae Mausi (Indian dub) and Bitzi Koyama (Funimation), the latter version depicting struggles with addiction.

"Ai-Chan"

A five-year-old girl originally from New York who enrolls at Futaba Kindergarten after relocating to Japan. She harbors a crush on Shinnosuke, who remains oblivious to her feelings. Later moves to Hokkaido but occasionally returns for visits. Known as Sally in the Phuuz dub.

"Cheetah Kawamura"

A boy nicknamed "Cheetah" due to his leopard-print shirt, leading the Rose Class clique that often opposes Shinnosuke’s group. Despite his confident athleticism, he shows kindness during pivotal moments.

Students in Rose class notorious for bullying Masao; unnamed second-graders in Funimation dub.

Nene’s mother who is friends with Misae despite being irritated by Shinnosuke's mischiefs. Known as Ruby (Vitello/Phuuz) and Patty Milfer (Funimation). A recurring joke centers on her wish to escape an abusive marriage.

Kazama’s mother, who pushes her son toward various extracurricular activities; affluent and envied by Misae. Called Barbara Prescott in Funimation dub.

Masao’s mother bearing a strong resemblance to her son.

Ai-chan’s devoted bodyguard and chauffeur, formerly dating Miss Ageo. Referred to as Mr. K in Funimation dub.

A college student training to become a kindergarten teacher and Shinnosuke’s love interest, known for tolerating his antics in a unique way. Known as Miss Bono in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Nanako’s overprotective author father who disapproves of Shinnosuke's affections but collaborates to safeguard Nanako. In Funimation dub, he is reimagined as the vampire "Will Cumton."

Nanako’s college friend aspiring to be a professional wrestler; called Griselda in Funimation dub.

Editor at Futaba Publishing collaborating with Shijuurou Oohara; Renfield in Funimation dub serving vampire Will Cumton.

Seventeen-year-old leader of the Saitama Red Scorpions gang secretly enthusiastic about cosplay, harboring a crush on Shinnosuke's kendo instructor.

Member of the Saitama Red Scorpions known for wearing a fisheye mask; despite tough appearance, he is kindhearted.

Saitama Red Scorpions member who supports others despite being somewhat clumsy.

Hiroshi’s coworker who admires him greatly; known as Morty Giffel in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

Hiroshi's boss

Hiroshi’s workplace manager.

Misae’s childhood friend from middle school married to Satoshi Honda.

Anime enthusiast married to Keiko Honda, known as Jim in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.

The child of Keiko and Satoshi.

Fumie Mogamigawa

Keiko’s niece who occasionally babysits Shinnosuke and Hitoshi.

Nohara neighbor known for gossiping with Misae and temporarily housing the family after their home is destroyed. Called Goobers or Yuka depending on the dub version.

Kitamoto’s nephew visiting from the US unfamiliar with Japanese customs, causing comedic misunderstandings. Portrayed differently across dubs including a French albino character indoctrinated during Afghanistan stay.

Nohara neighbors who move next door following a trip to Hawaii, regularly visiting despite minor conflicts. Depicted as financially struggling in the Funimation dub under names Luis and Gidgy respectively.

"Falling Apartments" strict landlord fiercely protective of property legacy connected to her late husband and daughter. Called Manlady in Funimation dub.

Nohara neighbor working at a supermarket often mistakenly considered academically gifted by Noharas who support him regardless of failures. Presented stereotypically nerdy in Funimation dub.

Atsuko is a young housewife living opposite the Noharas with her daughter Atsumi who befriends Misae. Portrayed as an American valley girl seeking the father of her child in Funimation dub where Atsumi appears as a dwarf child named Paris.

"Falling Apartments" resident aspiring actress known for using eccentric costumes during auditions, succeeding with assistance from Shinnosuke.

Midori’s easygoing husband lacking self-confidence but friendly toward Shinnosuke’s group. Known as Ricky/Doyle depending on dub versions where he has diverse backstories including telepathic popcorn salesman imprisoned due to accidental death.

Ume Matsuzaka's boyfriend, chiropractor and archaeologist fascinated by bones who dies during an African expedition exclusive to the manga storyline.

Futaba Kindergarten staff member depicted variously as substitute or intern teacher passionate about masculine games yet afraid of rabbits—a fear he overcomes with Shinnosuke's help. Dubbed "The Flamer" in Funimation as a mutant promoting natural selection through fire abilities.

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 clashes with Hiroshi, eventually marrying Ikuna Ogano.

Misae’s 35-year-old elder sister and aunt to Shinnosuke and Himawari. Employed at the same middle school where their father taught Japanese literature. Known as Minnie in the Vitello and Phuuz versions.

Nene’s father who enjoys participating in cherry blossom festivals. Referred to as Bill Milfer in the Funimation dub, where he is suggested to have issues with anger management.

A wealthy architect who often travels overseas. Friendly and relaxed in his interactions with the Nohara family. Portrayed as an American diplomat in the Funimation adaptation.

A salaryman who previously played in a rock band before getting married.

Only appeared once in the manga and never featured in the anime.

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

A timid, talking pig originating from Shinnosuke’s imagination but treated as an actual character. Made a permanent return in 2016, prominently appearing in the "Crayon Wars" TV special, which parodies Star Wars. Known as Big-a-zoid in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and Brave Pig by LUK Internacional. Called Ham Solo in the Funimation version.

A parody live-action hero from "Action Planet," inspired by tokusatsu series such as Kamen Rider. His origin was revised in the theatrical film to depict him being rescued and enhanced by Professor Kitakasukabe. A spin-off manga began in 2014 and is available on Crunchyroll outside Japan. Known as Masked Muchacho (Vitello/Phuuz), Action Kamen (Indian dub), Action Mask (Filipino dub), and Action Bastard (Funimation).

Action Mask’s alter ego, a stunt performer who investigates cases involving individuals transformed into monsters through implanted "seeds." Prefers solving conflicts through logic rather than violence. Known as Bruce Bastard in Funimation dub, with a backstory parodying Western superhero origins.

Sidekick to Action Mask who supplies weapons and intelligence, often captured and later rescued. An adult version appears in the spin-off manga as Dr. Kitakasukabe’s assistant. Called Loli Pop in Funimation dub.

The inventor behind Action Mask’s equipment. Replaced by Professor Kitakasukabe in the spin-off manga and film. Known as Doc in the Funimation adaptation.

The leader of the Black MekeMeke Group, a highly intelligent robot villain with variations named MekeMeke X and Y.

Members of Black MekeMeke Group "Black Four Heavenly Kings"

• – Female member with a heart-shaped headpiece.
• – Chimpanzee admiral accompanied by his son Yankikki.
• – Insectoid humanoid figure.
• – Iguana-like swordsman humanoid.

Head of Sparrow Group encountered during the "Action Mask Fever" storyline; revealed to be Phillippe, Mimiko’s brainwashed older brother. His costume draws inspiration from Ken the Eagle of Science Ninja Team Gatchaman. Known as Flying Pecker in Funimation dub.

{{nihongo|Richard von Tsubainbach|リヒャルト・フォン・ツバインバッハ|}

The mastermind behind Sparrow Group and primary antagonist of "Action Mask Fever" arc; a genius mad scientist and former classmate of Professor Gō. Called Dr. Hitlerclone with a German accent in Funimation dub.

{{nihongo|Baron Flower|}

A gallant villain fond of women, especially Mimiko. Portrayed by an actor admired by Misae and Himawari. Named The Deflowerer in Funimation dub.

Spin-off manga characters

• Misato Yashio – A tokusatsu enthusiast who encounters Gō.
• Bal – A ghostly figure assisting Gō’s transformation into Action Mask.

{{nihongo|Kantam Robo|}

Shinnosuke’s favorite mecha anime character, parodying Gundam with two components—a main robot and a smaller pilot robot. Known as Psycho Robotico (Vitello/Phuuz) and Robo Grinder (Funimation).

{{nihongo|John Yamada|}

Human partner to Kantam assisting the pilot robot.

{{nihongo|President Gilkilos|}

The principal antagonist of Kantam Robo, leader of the Midnight Secret Society.

{{nihongo|Kaizam Robo|}

Older brother of Kantam Robo, serving as a rival under President Gilkilos.

Members of SHIN-MEN

• – Fire-powered member who is lazy yet courageous.
• – Leader endowed with wind abilities.
• – Iron-bodied shapeshifter.
• – Water-powered prankster.
• – Plant-powered member reliant on water supply.

Other characters

• – Owner of ramen shop who looks after Gou.
• – Spoiled child obsessed with Western and ninja films.
• – Truck driver husband of Atsuko (manga only).
• & – Undercover narcotics agents posing as either father-son or gay couple (Funimation), involved in drug-related investigations.
• – Daughter of Midori and Junichi (manga only).
• & – Ume’s elder sisters competing for male attention.
• & – Fictional magical girl parodies secretly admired by Kazama.
• – Shin-chan’s toy monster parodying Godzilla.
• – University student frequently losing jobs due to Shinnosuke’s antics.
• – Shinnosuke's kendo instructor with a complex history.
• – Newscaster regularly watched by Misae.
• – Neighboring famous manga artist inspired by series creator Yoshito Usui, who makes cameo appearances.
• – Door-to-door saleswoman whose intimidating appearance frightens children, resulting in poor sales.
• – Punching bag used for venting anger that sometimes animates under red moonlight.
• – Future girl resembling Shinnosuke but characterized by tactfulness and empathy.
• – Opponent defeated when Shin-chan fires a chemical down its throat during an incident at Tokyo Bay.