Hiroshi Tateno transfers into Class 5-3 at Doumori Elementary School at the start of the original series. Initially doubting his teacher Meisuke Nueno's supernatural claims, his perspective shifts dramatically after Nueno rescues him from several spiritual dangers, transforming him into one of Nueno's staunchest allies. Hiroshi displays a courageous and heroic nature, often charging directly into challenges—human or supernatural—though his actions occasionally lack logical forethought. He struggles academically, holding among the lowest grades in his class and once setting a record for one hundred consecutive test scores of zero. This academic weakness contributes to his tendency for outlandish comments and sometimes lands him in supernatural trouble, including an incident where a ghost frightens him into wetting his pants in a restroom. His passion lies in soccer, where he plays for the school team and demonstrates athletic talent. His name honors the protagonist of the 1970s series *Dokonjyou Gaeru*, an influence on *Jigoku Sensei Nube*'s creators.

Years later, in *Jigoku Sensei Nube Neo*, Hiroshi achieves worldwide fame as a professional soccer player, competing in the World Cup and traveling internationally. Returning to Japan for rest, he visits Doumori Elementary, reuniting with Nueno, his former classmate Kyoko Inaba, and the new Class 5-3. His popularity sparks jealousy in student Kento Kita, leading to a challenge. When a yokai ensnares Kento, Hiroshi exorcises it using a soccer ball combined with the Sutra of the White-Robed Goddess. This act causes a severe leg injury threatening his career, a fact he initially conceals from Kyoko. He mentors Kento, stressing that everyone has unique talents and should avoid comparisons. Hiroshi confides in Nueno about the injury, worsened by continued play and possessing only a 10% surgical success rate. Pressured by Nueno and his manager Artelina, he finally reveals the truth to Kyoko, leading to emotional confrontations complicated by yokai interference. After successful surgery, he presents Kyoko with a wedding ring before leaving for Italy. The epilogue confirms their marriage and life together there.

His relationship with Kyoko Inaba evolves significantly throughout the series. Beginning with frequent arguments and a tsundere dynamic, their bond deepens into mutual romantic affection. A promise made thirteen years earlier resurfaces during his return, culminating in a kiss and his reaffirmed love. Misunderstandings arise when Kyoko mistakes his professional relationship with Artelina for romance, but they reconcile after confronting supernatural manipulation and his injury. Hiroshi makes a brief appearance in the spin-off *Reibaishi Izuna: Ascension* during a time-travel event attempting to alter Nueno's future. His legacy includes inspiring younger characters like Kento and symbolizing the lasting impact of Nueno's teachings on courage and self-acceptance.