Animals in Japan: Hachiko the Dog


Hachiko the dog

In the 1920’s there was an undying love created between a professor and his dog. This loyal dog everyday would scuttle across Tokyo to the train station and wait for his owner to finish lecturing at the Tokyo Imperial University.

Hachiko the dog was a beautiful and friendly Japanese Akita with a loyalty that is renowned in Japan.

And this is why: sadly, one day the owner Hidesaburo Ueno suddenly died whilst lecturing his class at the university a phenomenal thing happened next.

Every day for the next 9 years 9 months and fifteen days the loyal dog would wander down to the station and wait for his owner.

It is a beautiful testament to the bond between the humans and dogs. And is respected among the Japanese as a beautiful testament to loyalty.

There is a statue outside Shibuya station and Hachiko’s hometown. Both are frequented by the Japanese and tourists alike.

If this story touched your heart, why not watch the movie: Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. And if any of you enjoy futurama you might remember the episode of Jurassic Bark in which Fry and his Dog are reunited, inspired by the beloved Hachiko.

Now adays in Japan you can even visit dog cafes if you so choose. And every year on March 8th dog lovers from around the world gather in Tokyo to pay homage to the love between them and their canines.

A beautiful and inspirational story of one man and his dog. So, if you plan to visit Japan and you are passionate about pups then why not visit in March and join the celebrations of Hachiko and of the loyalty of man’s best friend?


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