Under cherry blossoms in full bloom, a group of roughly 80 people, both Japanese and foreign alike, gathered to celebrate the 89th Anniversary since the faithful dog Hachiko’s passing.
The story of Hachiko, a Shiba-ken bread of dog who patiently waited near Shibuya Station for the return of his deceased owner, gained considerable fame, both domestically and internationally. The 2009 feature film HACHI: A Dog’s Tale, staring Richard Gere, also aided the world-wide notability of the beloved dog.
The ceremony is typically held closer to the known date of Hachiko’s passing, March 8, but was pushed until early April to coincide with the warmer sakura cherry blossom season.
Roughly 80 attendees were present at the memorial service, among them were the family of the statue’s sculptor, Tsukasa Ando, Shibuya Ward Mayor Ken Hasebe, and the mayor of Hachi’s hometown of Odate, Akita Prefecture.
Also in attendance was Junko Tsukasa, Ando’s eldest daughter, expressed, “I’m grateful we could hold the service amidst the falling cherry blossom petals. I wish for the Hachiko statue to endure as a symbol of peace into the future.”
▶︎ Where to Find the Statue
- Take the Hachiko Exit at the JR Shibuya Station and walk straight and slightly to the right. The statue is not difficult to find. Please use the map below to help you find it!
▶︎ Related Links
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