Absolutely 100! Hachiko

Absolutely! Hachiko was an Akita dog born in 1923 in the city of Odate. Professor Hidesaburo Ueno of Tokyo University adopted him and the two formed a strong bond. Every day, Hachiko would wait for his owner at Shibuya Station to return from work. Tragically, in 1925, Professor Ueno passed away, but Hachiko continued to wait for him faithfully at the station every day for nearly 10 years. The touching story gained widespread attention, and Hachiko became a symbol of loyalty. In 1934, a bronze statue of Hachiko was erected near the Shibuya Station entrance to honor his memory. The statue captures Hachiko’s likeness and serves as a meeting point for people. Over the years, it has become an iconic landmark in Tokyo. The statue has undergone some changes, including being melted down during World War II for the war effort and later recast. Despite these changes, the spirit of Hachiko’s loyalty lives on, and the statue continues to be a beloved and symbolic spot in Shibuya, attracting locals and tourists alike. It’s a touching tribute to the enduring bond between humans and their animal companions. Have you ever visited the Hachiko statue in Shibuya?