Hachiko’s story dates back to the 1920s. He was a dog known for his loyalty and love for his owner. Every day, he saw his owner off to work and would sit there patiently at the Shibuya train station in central Tokyo until his owner returned from work.
Sadly, his human dad, Eizaburo, left the world suddenly because he suffered from a cerebral hemorrhage while at work. After his owner’s passing, the poor dog moved to live with a former gardener in Eizaburo’s family. But throughout the rest of his ten-year-long life, he was, as usual, sitting by the exit at Shibuya train station, waiting for his dear dad.
He kept going to the train every day and sat there for hours, patiently waiting in vain for the return of his beloved dad. And of course, his human dad never showed up. The boy continued to wait for Eizaburo at the station until he passed peacefully and alone on the street near Shibuya train station in 1935.
Hachiko’s Statue In Tokyo
In March, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the death of Hachiko, the University of Tokyo will officially unveil a new statue of the world’s most loyal dog. He has finally been reunited with the dad for whom he waited so long.
There are also monuments to Hachiko next to his owner’s grave in Aoyama Cemetery in Tokyo and the National Science Museum in Ueno, Tokyo.
Hachiko’s statue next to his owner’s tomb
Hachi: The Movie
Hachiko Monogatari is a Japanese film that tells the true story of the friendship, trust, and affection of Japan’s most faithful dog. The film was released in 1987 and was the top Japanese film at the box office that year.
Watch the trailer for the original Japanese movie below:
In 2009, Hollywood produced an English-language drama film with the title “A Dog’s Tale”. This film is a remake of the 1987 Japanese film Hachikō Monogatari. If you have not seen the movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale,” you should check it out; it’s great.
Check out the trailer for the American movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” below:
Books About Hachiko
There are many great books written about Hachiko and his wonderful story and life. If you still do not know his history, let’s read it, and I will make sure that the legend of Hachiko will touch your heart and inspire you.
Although decades have passed since his incredible story of love and loyalty came to an end, he and his story will be in our hearts, even the hardest of hearts.
H/T: animalsheltersnearme
