What happened to Hachiko the dog? - briefly
Hachiko was an Akita dog who lived in Japan and is famous for his loyalty. After his owner died suddenly, Hachiko continued to wait for him at the train station every day for over nine years until he too passed away.
What happened to Hachiko the dog? - in detail
Hachiko, an Akita dog known for his unwavering loyalty, became an iconic symbol of devotion and faithfulness after the death of his owner, Professor Ueno. The story of Hachiko began in 1923 when he was adopted by Professor Ueno, a professor at the University of Tokyo. Every day, Hachiko would accompany his owner to the Shibuya train station and wait for him to return from work. This routine continued until May 21, 1925, when Professor Ueno did not return home due to suffering a cerebral hemorrhage while lecturing at the university. Despite this tragic event, Hachiko remained loyal and continued to visit the Shibuya station every day for the next nine years, waiting for his owner's return.
The story of Hachiko gained widespread attention in Japan during the 1930s, with numerous articles and even a statue being erected in his honor at the Shibuya station in 1934. The statue served as a symbol of loyalty and devotion, becoming a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. However, Hachiko's health began to deteriorate in his old age, and he was found dead on March 8, 1935, while waiting at the station.
The remains of Hachiko were cremated, and his ashes were interred beside Professor Ueno's grave in Aoyama Cemetery in Tokyo. In addition to the statue at Shibuya station, several other memorials have been dedicated to Hachiko, including a bronze statue at the University of Tokyo and a larger-than-life statue in Odate, Akita Prefecture, where he was born. The story of Hachiko has also inspired numerous books, movies, and even an annual "Hachiko Day" celebration held on April 8th each year to commemorate his life and unwavering loyalty.