The legend of the dog known as Hachiko has become known not only in Japan, but across the world. The adorable Akita dog's unwavering loyalty to his owner earned him the nickname, “Chuken Hachiko,” which means “faithful dog Hachiko."
What kind of dog is Hachi?
First: Everyone is familiar with Hachiko, but what kind of dog was he? Hachiko was an Akita Inu, a Japanese dog breed that has become incredibly popular and famous all over the world in recent years.
A Legendary Friendship
The story began in 1924, when Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor in the agricultural department at the University of Tokyo, adopted a dog which he named Hachiko. The dog was an Akita, a breed originating from the mountainous regions of Japan’s north. Shortly after, they started their famous daily routine, with the dog greeting the professor at the end of each day at Shibuya station, not far from the university campus.
Sadly, Professor Ueno passed away in May of 1925, of a cerebral hemorrhage while giving a lecture. Hachiko, not knowing what transpired, continued to return every day to Shibuya station to wait for his owner for the next nine years, nine months, and fifteen days.
Hachiko’s Watch Begins
Most of the commuters at the station first thought that he was just roaming around, but when they realized that he was waiting for his dead master, vendors began giving him bits of food and water.
Some, of course, said that he was just coming to get fed by other people. But one of the professor's students was able to document and explain that the dog came back precisely when the train was due to arrive at the station in the evening, at the exact time and place his former companion usually returned.
The Legacy of Hachiko Continues
The former student then published an article in one of Tokyo's largest newspapers, starting the legend of Hachiko. Since then, the story has passed through generations, being immortalized in books, comics, and even a Hollywood film adaptation.
However, the most enduring tribute to Hachiko’s devotion is the bronze statue that was erected in 1934 outside of Shibuya Station. The Hachiko statue is Tokyo’s most well-known meeting point, and a famous Shibuya landmark. In February of 2015, the University of Tokyo’s agricultural department erected a new bronze statue on their campus–this time reuniting Hachiko with the Professor.
After being stuffed and displayed at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Hachiko was ultimately laid to rest in Aoyama Cemetery, a quiet and peaceful location. He shares his gravesite with none other than his beloved human companion, Professor Ueno.
-
-
Address
2-1, Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0043
View Map -
Nearest Station
Shibuya Station (JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / JR Yamanote Line / JR Saikyo Line / Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line / Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line / Tokyu Toyoko Line / Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line / Keio Inokashira Line)
- Phone Number 03-3462-8311
-
Address
2-1, Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0043
-
-
Address
7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8654
View Map -
Nearest Station
Todaimae Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
-
Address
7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8654
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
The Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building
Landmarks
Tokyo Station
-
Kappabashi Street
Old Towns (Shitamachi)
Asakusa
-
TOKYO SKYTREE®
Landmarks
Ryogoku / TOKYO SKYTREE(R)
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Landmarks
Shinjuku
-
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Gardens
Shinjuku
-
Tokyo International Forum
Landmarks
Ginza
-
5 Quirky Japanese Summer Festivals You Must See: Dancing, Fire, Bellybuttons & More!
by: Miyu Shimada
-
[Taste Test!] A New Product in the Popular 'Pikachu Tokyo Banana' Series! Adorable Special Cans Now Available
-
Experience the Magic: Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Fireworks Festival (August)
-
Japan's Rainy Season Set To End July 20th! Summer Is Expected to See Sizzling Highs
-
BicCamera Coupon! Tax-free, Plus Discount!
-
The Samurai Restaurant: An Insane, Energetic Night of Music and Lights
by: Cassandra Lord
Inspiration for Accommodations
-
8 Scenic Hakone Lodgings with Breathtaking Views of Mount Fuji from Your Room
-
Make Your Tokyo Stay Comfortable! 10 Convenient Hotels with Airport Shuttle Service
-
Experience Luxury: Hakone's 10 Best Five-Star Accommodations
-
Enjoy Breathtaking Views! Handpicked Tokyo Hotels with Tokyo Tower Views
-
Enjoy a Private Luxury Stay! Recommended Hotels with Night Views in Shinjuku
-
Stay Near the Cherry Blossoms! Hotels for Cherry Blossom Viewing in Tokyo
-
Top Hotels Offering Free Shuttle bus to Tokyo Disneyland
-
Best Hotels with Extended Stay in Hakone for a Comfortable Experience
-
10 Asakusa Hotels Featuring Views of Tokyo Skytree®
-
10 Open-air bath Onsen Ryokans in Hakone for Ultimate Relaxation
-
The Amazing Art and Architecture of Japan's Tokyo Station
-
Ikebukuro Station Area Guide: Top 15 Spots When You Escape the Station's Maze!
-
Exploring Tokyo: 3 Must-Visit Spots around Tokyo Station
-
Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree: Best Photo Spots for Your Instagram Shots!
-
An In-depth Look at the Tokyo Tower One Piece Theme Park!
-
Exploring Tokyo Station: 10 Must-Visit Spots Around the Heart of Tokyo
- #best ramen tokyo
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best izakaya shinjuku
- #things to do tokyo
- #japanese nail trends
- #what to do in odaiba
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best sushi ginza
- #japanese convenience store snacks
- #best yakiniku shibuya
- #japanese fashion culture
- #best japanese soft drinks