Hachiko (1923–1935) was an Akita dog who became famous for his unwavering loyalty to his owner. Even after his owner passed away, Hachiko continued waiting for him every day for nine years.

Hachiko used to meet his owner at Shibuya Station each day, right when the train was due to arrive. When Hachiko was just two years old, his owner died suddenly at work from a cerebral hemorrhage. From 1925 until 1935, Hachiko kept returning to the station every single day, waiting for his beloved owner to come back.

Even during his lifetime, Hachiko became a symbol of loyalty. Since his death, his story has spread worldwide through statues, films, and books.

Hachiko’s remains were buried next to his owner. But it doesn’t end there, the Japanese also chose to honor him by preserving his body through taxidermy, and it is now displayed at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno.

In 1934, a bronze statue of Hachiko was erected at Shibuya Station. However, during World War II, metal was needed for the war effort, and the statue was melted down. In 1948, the son of the original artist created a new statue, which still stands there today.

Every year on March 8, a memorial ceremony is held at Shibuya Station to honor Hachiko’s devotion, drawing hundreds of dog lovers.

One last (completely unnecessary) fact: in 1994, Nippon Broadcasting System restored an old recording that captured Hachiko’s bark. Millions of radio listeners tuned in, hoping to hear, even for a brief moment, the voice of the loyal dog.