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Just who is Hachiko? He’s a Japanese Akita dog from the beginning of the 20th century that’s famous for his unwavering loyalty. Brought up by a university professor, Hachiko used to greet his owner at the end of his workday at Shibuya station. The pair did this routine for a year or so until one day, the professor went to work and never returned to the station. He had died of heart attack. This didn’t stop Hachiko from still appearing at 6pm everyday waiting (This continued for 9 years until Hachiko himself passed away). Other commuters took notice of Hachiko and some had known the pair when the professor was still alive. Many, upon learning the story, were touched. A newspaper article was written about Hachiko making him a celebrity. Eventually, a bronze statue in his likeness was erected at the Shibuya Station and Hachiko himself was present at its unveiling. This monument has forever become a national symbol of loyalty. And the plaza where it’s at became a popular meeting spot in Tokyo. While there, also enjoy some people-watching at Shibuya Crossing.
Address: Hachiko Plaza, 2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043
Direction: Subway Hanzomon, Ginza, Fukutoshin Lines to Shibuya Station; JR Yamanote, Saikyo, Shonan Shinjuku Lines to Shibuya Station, Hachikō exit
Website: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachik%C5%8D
Photo credit: Dominiek ter Heide, David Offf, Pekka Tamminen
