A Dog’s Story of Devotion: Remembering Hachiko!

Few stories touch our hearts as deeply as the tale of Hachiko, the legendary Japanese Akita dog known for his unwavering loyalty and devotion to his owner, Professor Hidesaburo Ueno.

For almost a decade after his owner’s sudden passing, Hachi continued to return to the Shibuya train station in Tokyo every day, waiting patiently for the return of the man he loved.

Through his incredible tale, we’ll discover the power of love, faithfulness, and devotion, and what they can teach us about the true meaning of companionship.

Come along with me on a journey as we discover the heartwarming story of Hachiko …

Japanese Akita Dog

Get ready to be captivated by the beauty and loyalty of the Japanese Akita Dog! With their striking appearance and bold presence, this breed steals hearts and leaves a lasting impression.

Did you know that the Akita is one of only six breeds designated as a national monument in Japan? [1]

Originally bred for hunting large game such as wild boar, deer, and even bears, the Akita Dog is a true survivor.

Their thick double coat sheds twice a year, so regular grooming is necessary to keep them looking their best.

Despite their reputation as fierce hunters, the Japanese Akita Dog is also known for their affectionate nature and love for children.

They are highly intelligent and easily trained, but can also be independent and stubborn.

And let’s not forget their unique vocalization called the “Akita woo,” which sounds like a combination of a howl and a yodel!

However, the most famous Japanese Akita Dog, Hachikō, captured the hearts of people all around the world with his story of loyalty and devotion.

Agricultural Scientist Hidesaburō Ueno

Hidesaburō Ueno was a man of many talents! He was born on January 19, 1872, in Hisai-shi (now known as Tsu), Mie Prefecture.

After graduating from Tokyo Imperial University’s agriculture department in 1895, he continued his studies by entering graduate school to study agricultural engineering and farm implementation research.

Talk about dedication!

In 1900, Ueno finished his graduate work and was appointed as an assistant professor at Tokyo Imperial University, where he taught until becoming an associate professor at the agricultural university in 1902.

But Ueno didn’t stop there. He had a passion for educating technical experts in the field of arable land readjustment, studying drainage and reclamation engineering.

He even used this technology for the revival of the imperial capital after the 1923 Great Kantō earthquake.

In 1916, Ueno became a Professor at Imperial University the university’s agriculture department, and he was in charge of the agricultural engineering lecture.

As a dedicated educator, Ueno went above and beyond by creating a program that specialized in agricultural engineering within the agriculture department.

This man knew his stuff!

Unfortunately, Ueno’s life was cut short by a cerebral hemorrhage while he was giving a lecture on May 21, 1925. He was buried at Aoyama Cemetery.

Despite his tragic end, his legacy lives on as an important figure in the field of agriculture. [2]

Last update on 2024-02-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hachiko’s Early Years with His Owner, Professor Ueno

Hachiko was a white Akita who lived in the early 20th century with his owner, Professor Hidesaburō Ueno, in Tokyo.

Each day, Hachiko would accompany Professor Ueno to the Shibuya train station, where the professor would catch a train to work.

Hachiko would then wait patiently at the station until the professor returned in the evening when the two would walk home together.

This routine continued for several years, until one day in 1925 when Professor Ueno unexpectedly passed away while at work.

The hero of our story, who had been waiting at the station as usual, was not aware of his owner’s death and continued to wait for him to return …

Life at the Train Station for 10 Years, 9 Months, and 15 Days

Initially, not all travelers at the train station were friendly towards Hachiko, but this changed on October 4, 1932, when a newspaper article about the dog was published.

Hirokichi Saito, one of Professor Ueno’s former students and an expert on the Akita breed, saw Hachiko at the station and followed him to the home of Ueno’s former gardener.

There, he learned about Hachiko’s life and history.

Saito published several articles about Hachiko’s remarkable loyalty, and in 1932, one of his articles in the Asahi Shimbun newspaper brought national attention to the dog.

From then on, people brought him food and treats and even organized themselves to cover his vet costs.

Hachiko had made many friends at the train station who were touched by his story. [3]

The Final Goodbye – Hachiko’s Peaceful Passing

In 1934, Hachiko’s unwavering loyalty was forever immortalized through the skillful hands of renowned Japanese artist Teru Ando, who crafted a stunning bronze statue in his honor.

Sadly, the statue was destroyed during World War II, but thankfully, the sculptor’s son worked tirelessly to create a new statue of the faithful Akita.

Today, the statue stands proudly at the entrance of the Shibuya train station, serving as a reminder of Hachiko’s incredible story and the love and devotion he showed to his owner.

Despite waiting for his owner’s return for his entire life, Hachiko’s journey did not end there.

On March 8, 1935, he peacefully passed away. In a final act of devotion, his ashes were laid to rest beside his owner’s grave, bringing an emotional end to their heartwarming tale.

Even after his death, Hachiko’s legacy continued to inspire people.

His fur was taxidermied and he became a permanent exhibit at the Japan National Science Museum, allowing people from all over the world to marvel at the story of this remarkable dog and his bond with his owner. [4]

Hachiko’s Popularity – The Legacy of a Loyal Dog!

Hachiko, the legendary Akita dog, has captured the hearts of people around the world with his remarkable story of loyalty and devotion.

His popularity has led to the creation of numerous books, movies, and other forms of media that continue to inspire and move audiences.

Famous Books

In terms of books, the most famous work is Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog by Pamela S. Turner.

This non-fiction book tells the story of Hachiko’s life and his unwavering devotion to his owner, Professor Ueno.

It is a beautifully written and illustrated book that is perfect for readers of all ages.

Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog
  • Turner, Pamela S. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 32 Pages - 04/06/2009 (Publication Date) - Clarion Books (Publisher)

Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hachiko Waits by Leslea Newman is a children’s book that portrays the life of Hachiko from the perspective of a fictional dog who befriends him

Sale
Hachiko Waits: Based on a True Story
  • Newman, Lesléa (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 96 Pages - 12/23/2008 (Publication Date) - Square Fish (Publisher)

Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hachi-Ko: The Samurai Dog by Shizuko O. Koster is a historical fiction book based on the true story of the legendary samurai dog Hachi-Ko, who lived during the Edo period and was renowned for his loyalty and bravery.

Hachi-Ko: The Samurai Dog
  • Used Book in Good Condition
  • Koster, Shizuko O. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 102 Pages - 01/15/2007 (Publication Date) - Publishamerica Inc (Publisher)

Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Heart of a Dog by Albert Payson Terhune is a classic novel that tells the story of a collie named Lad and includes a chapter on Hachiko and his loyalty to his owner.

Sale
The heart of a dog
  • Hardcover Book
  • Terhune Albert Payson (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 249 Pages - 03/26/2024 (Publication Date) - Junior Deluxe Editions (Publisher)

Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Famous Movies

Hachiko Monogatari (1987) – This Japanese film is based on Hachiko’s life and stars Tatsuya Nakadai as Professor Ueno.

As for movies, the most well-known film about Hachiko is the 2009 American movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”.

Starring Richard Gere, the movie tells the story of Hachiko’s life and his incredible bond with Professor Ueno.

It is a touching and emotional film that has become a favorite among animal lovers worldwide.

Conclusion

The story of Hachiko is a remarkable testament to the loyalty and love that dogs are capable of showing to their owners.

Throughout the years, this story has touched the hearts of people all around the world and has been the subject of numerous books, movies, and other forms of media.

As a researcher, I have tried to collect a vast amount of information on this topic, including various books and movies that shed light on Hachiko’s story.

From his unwavering loyalty to his owner to the touching bond he formed with the people at the train station, Hachiko’s story will continue to inspire and move people for generations to come.

In a world where it’s easy to become cynical and jaded, Hachiko’s story reminds us of the simple but powerful bond that can exist between humans and animals.

We can learn a lot from his unwavering devotion to his owner and the impact he had on those around him.

Hachiko may be gone, but his story will live on as a shining example of the pure and selfless love that dogs are capable of giving.

Sources:
  1. Clever, Obedient, and Cute! The Charm of Japanese Dogs Like Shiba-Inu and Akita (more information).
  2. Hidesaburō Ueno (more information).
  3. Thangham, Chris V. (August 17, 2007). “Dog faithfully awaits return of his master for past 11 years”. Digital Journal.
  4. Ovako je izgledao pravi Hačiko, verni pas koji je 9 godina na stanici čekao pokojnog vlasnika (more information).
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admin

My name is Alen Stefanovic, and I am the founder and administrator of the website "Awesome Sarplaninac". As an economist-trade manager, and web designer, I have a passion for the Sarplaninac breed (number 1 dogs for me). My father has been breeding these dogs since 1990, and through the website, I aim to share valuable information about nutrition, care, and training for both puppies and adult dogs. Whether you're a new or experienced owner, you'll find plenty of helpful tips and resources on the site. Welcome to "Sarplaninac FCI 4302", and I wish you a pleasant stay.

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