Do you know Hachiko? Most people recognize him as the bronze dog statue standing proudly in front of Shibuya Station, one of Tokyo’s busiest transportation hubs. Together with Shibuya Crossing, the Hachiko statue has become an iconic symbol of the area and one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo.
Thanks to books and a Hollywood film, Hachiko’s story of loyalty has touched hearts around the world. In 2023, Hachiko marked the 100th anniversary of his birth, reminding us why his legacy continues to inspire generations. In this article, we’ll explore the true story of Hachiko and introduce the best Hachiko-related spots you can visit in Tokyo and beyond.
The Story of Hachiko, the Loyal Dog
Hachiko was born in 1923 in Odate City, located in today’s Akita Prefecture. He was an Akita dog, a breed native to northern Japan and known for its loyalty and gentle temperament.
Hachiko was adopted by Professor Eizaburo Ueno, who taught at a university in Tokyo. Every day, Hachiko accompanied his owner to Shibuya Station, where he would see him off and return in the afternoon to welcome him home.
Tragically, Professor Ueno passed away suddenly in 1925, just one year after adopting Hachiko. Unaware that his owner would never return, Hachiko continued to visit Shibuya Station every single day, patiently waiting in the same spot. He did this for nearly ten years.
When a newspaper reported Hachiko’s devotion, people across Japan were deeply moved. From that moment on, he became known nationwide as “Chūken Hachikō” — the Loyal Dog Hachiko.
Hachiko Spots Around Shibuya Station
The Hachiko Statue
The most famous Hachiko landmark is, of course, the Hachiko Statue. The nearby ticket gate at JR Shibuya Station is even called the “Hachiko Exit,” named after the statue first erected in 1934.
For decades, “Let’s meet in front of Hachiko” has been one of Tokyo’s most common phrases. Today, the statue is constantly surrounded by visitors taking photos, making it one of the liveliest meeting spots in the city.
Hachiko-Themed Goods
For souvenirs, head to Shibuya Scramble Square. On the 14th floor, you’ll find Hachi-Furu SHIBUYA MEETS AKITA, a specialty shop offering original Hachiko merchandise and local products from Akita Prefecture, Hachiko’s birthplace.
On the ground floor, where gourmet sweets line the corridors, you can also find Hachiko-themed desserts, perfect as gifts or edible souvenirs.
If you’d like to explore more of the area, check out my full guide here:
Hachiko’s Hometown: Odate City, Akita Prefecture
Hachiko’s roots lie far from Tokyo, in Odate City, the birthplace of the Akita dog breed. For fans of Hachiko, visiting Odate offers a deeper connection to his story.
Inside Odate Station, you’ll find Hachiko Shrine, a small but meaningful spot dedicated to him. Outside the station stands another Hachiko statue, reminiscent of the famous one in Shibuya.
Akita Prefecture is also one of the best places to see real Akita dogs. While visits are limited by location and time, encountering an Akita in person is an unforgettable experience for dog lovers.
More information can be found here:
https://stayakita.com/akita-stories/akita-dog
Trivia About Hachiko
Can You Still See Hachiko Today?
Yes — in a way. At the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Hachiko is preserved in taxidermy form. Seeing him up close offers a rare chance to imagine what he looked like during his long years of waiting. The museum itself is excellent and easily worth a full day of exploration.
Hachiko Rests Beside His Owner
At Aoyama Cemetery in Tokyo, Professor Ueno’s grave can be found — and Hachiko’s grave lies right next to it. In the end, it seems the loyal dog was finally reunited with his beloved owner.
The Current Hachiko Statue Is the Second One
The original 1934 statue was melted down during World War II due to metal shortages. After the war, a new statue was created and installed — the Hachiko statue you see today.
Another Hachiko Statue in Yamagata
Interestingly, a plaster dog statue once stored at Tsuruoka City Office was later identified as a prototype of the Hachiko statue. Today, this rare piece can be seen at Tsuruoka Station in Yamagata Prefecture.
Why Hachiko’s Story Still Matters
Nearly a century later, Hachiko’s story continues to resonate because it represents something universal: unconditional loyalty and love. Whether you’re a dog lover, a history enthusiast, or a traveler exploring Tokyo, Hachiko’s presence in Shibuya is more than just a photo opportunity — it’s a reminder of a timeless bond between humans and animals.