Nonnina, Kanta's grandmother residing with his family near the Kusakabe home, warmly welcomes the Kusakabes as they move in, having previously tended to their property. She possesses grey hair, deeply wrinkled and slightly sun-tanned skin, typically sporting a white headscarf and clothing in shades of purple like a periwinkle robe or trousers and shirt.

Her kind, caring nature shines through her actions, especially towards her neighbors. She frequently looks after young Mei, shares homegrown cucumbers and corn with the Kusakabe children to build their strength, and offers practical aid and comfort during crises like Yasuko Kusakabe's hospitalization. She consoles Mei when upset about being separated from Satsuki and reassures Satsuki when she fears for her mother's health.

Nonnina actively participates in community efforts, notably organizing and joining the frantic search for the missing Mei. She discovers a child's shoe in a pond, collapsing with relief when it proves not to be Mei's. Throughout, she remains a calm, stabilizing presence.

She shares a close bond with her grandson Kanta, though occasionally strict with him, and extends her grandmotherly care to the entire village, embodying a nurturing communal spirit.