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[Simple Impressions] Fun Classic Bits Even Beginners Can Do [2026]

Many people have probably experienced being suddenly asked at company parties, banquets, year-end or New Year gatherings to “Do something funny!” even without any warning.

If you’re thinking, “I can’t do a one-shot gag, and I’m not good at jokes…,” then impressions are perfect for you!

It’s great if your impression sounds similar, but even if it doesn’t, going all in can still get everyone excited.

Plus, once you master an impression, you can pull it out in any situation—super handy!

In this article, we’ve gathered easy, recommended impressions of anime characters everyone knows and popular celebrities.

Pick the ones that fit your voice and personality, and give them a try!

Celebrities (11–20)

Giant Baba

Impression/Impersonation: Giant Baba
Giant Baba

In January 1999, professional wrestler Giant Baba, who died at the age of 61, was a legendary figure who led Japan’s postwar pro wrestling scene.

He had “finishing moves” like the 16-Mon Kick, but impressions by celebrities like Tsutomu Sekine also made his catchphrases—such as “Apo” and “Pō”—into established gags.

A strength of his persona is that even children who don’t know him find these bits funny for no particular reason.

Celebrities (21–30)

Jun Hamamura

When it comes to radio personalities who represent the Kansai region, Jun Hamamura is a standout, also known for his work as a host and film critic.

His distinctive speaking style is often imitated by comedians like Saburō Ōhira.

His signature phrase, “Now then, everyone,” is well known.

Yoshizumi Ishihara

Kanaluki impression of Yoshizumi Ishihara, September 17, 2017
Yoshizumi Ishihara

Yoshizumi Ishihara, who broke out as a weathercaster and often appears on variety shows.

Lately people even say he’s had a resurgence, and we’re seeing him on TV more and more.

He has a distinctive voice, but doesn’t he also seem easy to impersonate just by his looks? With a wig and those eyebrows, it’s perfect!

Shingo Yanagisawa

Shingo Yanagisawa: “It’s the best!” He can’t stop doing engine sound impressions! — The Fate of the Furious Event 2
Shingo Yanagisawa

Shingo Yanagisawa has a repertoire of various voice impressions and sound-effect imitations.

From car engine and drifting sounds to the classic police car and radio chatter, his bits are all captivating! If you’re not very confident when you try it yourself, you might be able to get through it with sheer enthusiasm (lol).

Outrage

Already godlike!? Kuniyuki Matsumura does a one-man 'Outrage Beyond' with impressions — Takeshi Kitano, Toshiyuki Nishida, Tomokazu Miura, Ryo Kase, Akira Nakao, Shigeru Koyama, and more
Outrage

Beat Takeshi is known around the world not only as a comedian but also as a film director—using his real name, Takeshi Kitano, for his directing work.

Among his films, Outrage is notorious for its themes of extreme viciousness and the fact that practically every character is a villain.

It features a lineup of uniquely intense character actors.

How about trying impressions of those characters? Dress in a black suit and play multiple roles by yourself—it’s a bit challenging, but it’s sure to be a crowd-pleasing impression!

Tamori

Tamori says playing Ieyasu in sunglasses feels “natural” — New BOSS The Can Coffee commercial “Sekigahara” and behind-the-scenes footage
Tamori

An impression of the famously renowned host Tamori.

Classic phrases include things like “Got a haircut?”, but it feels like fewer people immediately get the reference nowadays.

Doing the emcee role for a performance in his style might be the most fitting approach.

Try using Koji Tomita’s impression as a reference.

Matsuko Deluxe

[Futoshi Hojo] Matsuko Deluxe Impression [Yoshimoto Impression Hour]
Matsuko Deluxe

Beyond the striking appearance, Matsuko Deluxe is hugely popular for sharp, straightforward comments and quick wit—you almost never have a day without seeing them on TV, right? Doesn’t it feel like you could maybe pull off an impression of Matsuko? Start by nailing the look: wear a generously flowing, dress-like outfit and pull your black hair back into a tight bun.

Then master that distinctive way of speaking and those slightly condescending punchlines, and go ahead and roast the kinds of people you normally couldn’t! (lol)