Hisashi Hongou

Hisashi is earnest, friendly and exceptionally determined. He takes the morning exercises seriously and refuses to let his poor health prevent him from participating.

That determination can become reckless. Hisashi values his promise to Kagura so strongly that he pushes himself beyond what his physical condition can safely tolerate.

He also has a strong sense of companionship. Rather than treating Kagura as merely another participant, he encourages her attendance and accepts her as a genuine friend.

Hisashi has no supernatural powers or combat abilities.

His physical health is comparatively fragile, making his persistence at the morning exercises notable precisely because ordinary exertion can be difficult for him.

His defining strength is perseverance. He repeatedly attends the exercises despite circumstances that would give him reasonable cause to remain at home.

Hisashi meets Kagura after she begins participating in Kabukicho's morning radio exercises. The two become friends and make a commitment to continue attending every day.

As the days pass, other participants gradually stop coming, but Kagura and Hisashi continue recording their attendance. Hisashi's poor health eventually complicates their attempt to maintain the streak.

Hisashi pushes himself to attend even in cold rain and becomes seriously ill. Kagura is devastated when she learns what happened and continues the exercise routine while waiting for him to recover.

When Hisashi is eventually able to return, he discovers that Kagura and the people of Kabukicho have preserved the spirit of their promise rather than simply abandoning the routine.

Kagura is Hisashi's friend and morning-exercise partner. Their promise to maintain perfect attendance becomes the center of their friendship.

Sakata Gintoki and Shimura Shinpachi become involved through Kagura's determination to continue the exercises.