Shibuya - Hachiko ni Yokoso!

Long before Shibuya became Tokyo's birthplace of many of its fashions and entertainment fads, it was the lone place that witnessed Hachiko's unaltered loyalty and unswavering devotion to his beloved master, perpetuated by his bronzed sculpture emplaced at the hub of the cluttered and vibrant district.

In spite of its small size compared to the extensive bright lights of the city, Hachiko's statue is not uphill to find, as it is considered to be Shibuya's best known landmark and gathering point for millions of Tokyoites and tourists alike, since 1934. "Meet me by Hachiko", is a common joyous rejoinder when you ask one where to meet him at Shibuya.

If you have not waited by Hachiko, you are missing one of Tokyo's beloved legends and monuments.

It is a happy and safe rendezvous to wait for your date. Any time of day or night, there are always people sitting around the bronzed sculpture to wait for their friends, just like what Hachiko did for his revered master. They even take pictures of themselves together with the statue. Some also buy gifts and souvenirs of the faithful Hachiko at the Hachiko Memorial Store named Shibuya No Shippo or "Tail of Shibuya".

Story has it that Hachiko was born in Akita in November 1923, from the famous and admired bred of dogs, the Akita dog, and was a tiny pup when first brought to Tokyo in January 1924. He and his owner, Eisaburo Uyeno, a professor at the Imperial University, became bosom friends. Hachiko would accompany Eisaburo to the train station each morning, when he left for work. Upon returning in the afternoon, the professor would see the dog patiently waiting, tail wagging.

This gladsome routine lasted until one fatal day in May 1925, when the professor was taken ill on the job and haplessly died of stroke before he could return home. Without realizing what really happened to his beloved master, Hachiko continued to wait for him every single day at Shibuya station which made the stationmaster and onlookers to start feeding him and giving him shelter. At times, he wouldn't return home for days at a stretch. Thus, he became a familiar sight to daily travellers as he continued his vigil for over ten years.

On March 8, 1935, Hachiko died of heartworm on the very same spot he last saw his master alive. His death was big news all over Japan; and even day was declared in mourning for his passing. Contributions poured in from all over the country to commemorate the dog that had won the hearts of the entire nation, and left a heartwarming lesson and legacy of a dog's faithfulness for us faithless humans.

Well-known artist Ando Teru was commissioned for the original bronzed sculpture, which was actually melted down during the war. In 1948, his son Ando Tekeshi, formed the second statue which is still erected up to this day.

More than just a bronzed sculpture and a tale, Hachiko is a real-life dog whose faithfulness and undying love for his adored master has captured the interest, and has touched the lives of the people of Japan and the world. His life was portrayed in a book and a motion picture entitled "The Hachiko Story".

How To Get There:

You may take JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, Ginza Subway Line or Tokyu Toyoko Line and in front of the station is the Hachiko exit.

*published in the Feb '08 issue of "Let's Tour Tokyo", Philippine Digest*

*photos by Din Eugenio*