Tongari-kun, also known as Jingle in certain regions, is an official hamster member of the Ham-Ham group. He identifies himself as a "Ham-poet," dedicating himself to songwriting and poetry. Typically seen carrying a guitar, he occasionally strums riffs while traveling. Tongari-kun speaks in a soft whisper and offers advice that other hamsters often find strange or confusing, though his words frequently prove unintentionally helpful in resolving their predicaments.

He maintains an independent and itinerant lifestyle, frequently embarking on solo journeys across the world alongside a pig companion named Herbert, often riding atop him during their wanderings. This preference for travel results in his less frequent participation in core group adventures at the Ham-Ham clubhouse compared to other main members.

His interactions within the group feature distinctive traits, notably a recurring tendency to forget or misremember fellow hamster names, especially Hamtaro's. Hamtaro is commonly addressed by incorrect, food-related nicknames like "Ham-n'-cheese," "Ham-n'-eggs," "Hambozo," and "Hamtaco." However, an episode titled "Setting Off, Spring's Wind!" shows a subtle development where he correctly recalls Hamtaro's name, surprising Hamtaro himself. While officially part of the group, his status as a core member varies across media. Early portrayals in the *Gozaimachu!* manga, the game *Hamtaro: Ham-Hams Unite!*, and the 1999 pilot episode consistently feature him participating in group activities. Conversely, the main anime series establishes him as a wanderer who only occasionally joins the others, significantly reducing his appearances within that continuity. Despite its initial perplexing nature, his advice consistently plays a role in advancing the group's endeavors.