The Faithful Dog Hachiko & Statue Story Waiting for the Deceased Owner 2026
Since moving to a Shibuya city in 2024, I've been discovering many spots I
proudly recommend to tourists in Shibuya. I updated this article in January 2026 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2026.
Another reason for updating the article is the growing interest in tours that allow visitors to safely and deeply experience Shibuya's nightlife. Because Shibuya is a city that continues to develop at a dizzying pace and in complex ways, tourists visiting for the first time find it extremely difficult to discover the truly excellent spots beloved by locals.
This is why food tours led by knowledgeable local guides who know Shibuya inside and out have been gaining popularity, as they take visitors through Shibuya's maze of izakaya establishments.
In fact, Magical Trip's tour, which ranked #1 among all tours on Tripadvisor, has been receiving numerous applications.
If you want to experience authentic izakayas beloved by Shibuya locals, try the "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo," which is ranked #2 on Magical Trip. A knowledgeable local guide who knows Shibuya inside and out will take you to spots where you can enjoy genuine Japanese cuisine.
And if you want to make the most of Tokyo's nightlife, you absolutely must join the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku," which is rated #1 on Tripadvisor. You can safely explore Shinjuku's historic retro drinking districts and Kabukicho, the largest entertainment district in Asia, with an expert guide who knows Shinjuku thoroughly.
We hope you'll have a wonderful time experiencing everything Ueno has to offer by joining a Magical Trip tour!
Introduction
Shibuya in Tokyo is a lively area that serves as a hub for youth culture. The famous "Scramble Crossing" in Shibuya, known as one of the busiest intersections in the world, can see up to 3,000 people crossing at once when the light turns green.
While there are many popular spots for youth like fashion, music, and game centers, Shibuya also has many art museums, live houses, and clubs, combining an arts and music scene for adults to enjoy as well.
Currently popular as a setting for anime, Shibuya is undergoing a major redevelopment that happens once every 100 years. It's because the area continues to change that it attracts fascinating people, things, and shops.
It's an area popular with both Japanese and foreigners, so it's also characterized by having many restaurants and dining options. There are plenty of izakaya and bars where you can enjoy Japanese drinking culture.
And when it comes to the standard meeting spot in Shibuya, it has to be in front of the "Hachiko Statue." This time, I'll introduce this statue of the dog named "Hachi" that has become a landmark of Shibuya.
What is the Hachiko Statue?
Source: TripAdvisor
The Hachiko Statue is a bronze statue of an Akita dog located at the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station. It's so famous that the station exit is named after it, and it serves as a beloved symbol for meeting spots.
The Hachiko Statue was erected in 1935 based on the real story of the loyal Akita dog Hachiko. The image of Hachi waiting daily at Shibuya Station for its owner struck a chord, making the dog so popular that a statue was built at the station.
Even today, the Hachiko Statue remains a standard meeting spot in Shibuya. The story of Hachi and its owner has transcended time, generations, and countries, continuing to be loved by many people. It's common to see people taking commemorative photos with it.
The Hachiko Statue is an indispensable spot for visitors to Shibuya, serving as an iconic presence welcoming people at the entrance to the city.
The Story of Hachiko's Life: Why Hachiko Became a Statue?
Hachiko is an Akita Dog from Akita Prefecture
Hachi was an Akita dog born in Akita Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region of northern Honshu, Japan. Akita dogs are known for being intelligent, persevering, and highly loyal.
Hachi was born in Akita, but at 2 months old came under the ownership of Dr. Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor at the University of Tokyo who lived in Tokyo and wanted an Akita dog. One of his students gifted Hachi to Dr. Ueno to fulfill his wish.
Around 1923 when Hachi was born, dogs were typically raised outdoors as guard dogs. However, Hachi's doghouse was placed right next to Dr. Ueno's room. Hachi was raised being very dear and precious to Dr. Ueno and his wife.
There is an anecdote that at a cherry blossom viewing party, Dr. Ueno would have Hachi sitting on his lap while doting on the dog.
Hachiko Waited for About 10 Years for His Owner "Hidesaburo Ueno" Who Never Returned
Raised being doted on by Dr. Ueno and his wife, Hachi's daily routine involved accompanying the professor to and from Shibuya Station, which Dr. Ueno used for his work commute and business trips.
Sometimes when picking up Dr. Ueno at Shibuya Station, Hachi would be taken along to an izakaya pub with the professor and his students, receiving chicken scraps as a treat.
However, this blissful life came to an end just 1 year and 4 months later when the professor passed away suddenly. His widow Yaeko had to move away from their home near Shibuya, and Hachi was sent to a new home as well.
But Hachi's life at this new home turned harsh. Hachi began leaving and spending time at Shibuya Station instead.
After that, Hachi continued waiting for its deceased owner Dr. Ueno at Shibuya Station for about 10 years.
Hachi's Story Was Published in the Newspaper, and Hachi Became Famous
Yaeko, Dr. Ueno's widow, was heartbroken that Hachi could not adjust to the new living situation, as she herself was only able to live with an acquaintance away from Hachi.
Learning of Yaeko's circumstances, Dr. Ueno's students gifted her a home away from Shibuya. Hachi began living with Yaeko again there.
However, Hachi still did not stop going to Shibuya Station, returning no matter how many times Yaeko brought Hachi back home. Understanding Hachi's desire to see Dr. Ueno, Yaeko decided to have Hachi stay at a home near Shibuya Station.
Though Hachi waiting at Shibuya Station was often mistaken for a stray dog and caught or kicked out, in October 1932 a newspaper article about the dog waiting for its owner made Hachi an instant celebrity.
Reached 100th Birth Anniversary in 2023
Hachi passed away in 1935, three years after becoming famous and 10 years after Dr. Ueno's death.
Though having only lived together for 1 year and 4 months, the incredible bond that made Hachi wait 10 long years for its owner who never returned struck a chord with many people. Donations were collected to erect the bronze Hachiko Statue at Shibuya Station to immortalize Hachi's story.
The original statue was dismantled during WWII due to metal shortages, but a second statue was rebuilt after the war. This is the statue that still remains at Shibuya Station today.
In 2023, Hachi's 100th birth anniversary was celebrated with a festival in Shibuya. Events included a lecture with a comedian exploring how to properly interact with animals, inspired by Hachi and Dr. Ueno's relationship.
Hachi will surely continue being passed down as a symbol of Shibuya for a long time to come.
List of Movies Related to the Hachiko Statue
Hachi's story, which touched the hearts of many people, was made into a movie in 1987, becoming even more widely known. This movie has also been remade in the United States and China.
Richard Gere, who played Hachi's owner in the American version, was moved to tears when he read the script, as he himself is a dog lover. It is also a well-known story that he took his time slowly building a bond with the Akita dog that played Hachi.
Additionally, a movie about "Palma," a dog that actually existed at a Moscow airport and is called the Russian Hachiko, has also been released. This film, a joint production between Japan and Russia, was inspired by Hachi's story, focusing on themes of loyalty and bonds with humans.
| Title | Country of origin | Publish Date |
|---|---|---|
| Hachiko Monogatari | Japan | 1987 |
| Hachi: A Dog’s Tale | U.S. | 2009 |
| Hachiko | China | 2023 |
| A Dod Named Palme | Japan & Russia | 2021 |
Merchandise Related to the Hachiko Statue is Also Available
The popularity of Hachiko, who can be called a symbol of Shibuya, shows no signs of fading, and merchandise featuring Hachi continues to appear one after another.
When people think of Shibuya, many picture the Hachiko Statue, and Hachi merchandise is also popular as souvenirs. There are even shops that specialize exclusively in Hachi-related souvenirs.
Keychains and small plush toys are so cute that you will want to pick them up. Cheese-flavored sablé cookies printed with Hachi's dignified figure and pies made with apples from Akita Prefecture, Hachi's hometown, are also popular.
Furthermore, for some products, a portion of the sales is donated to the preservation and protection of Akita dogs, the same breed as Hachi.
Why not give Hachi merchandise along with Hachi's story as a souvenir for dog lovers?
<Shops Where You Can Purchase Hachiko Merchandise>
Hachifuru SHIBUYA meets AKITA Shibuya Scramble Square Store
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Square 14F
Business Hours: 10:00–21:00
Official Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/shops_restaurants/shop_516.html
SEIBU Shibuya Building A B1F Shibuya Souvenir Corner
Access: 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station
Business Hours: 10:00–20:00
Official Website: https://www.sogo-seibu.jp/global/topics/food-shibuyamiyage
SHIBUYA SKY SOUVENIR SHOP (Admission ticket to the observation facility "SHIBUYA SKY" is required)
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Square 46F
Business Hours: 10:00–22:30
Official Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/about/?page=3
Access to the Hachiko Statue
The Hachiko Statue is located just 30 seconds from the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station. While not an overly large statue, it can be tricky to spot when there are many people around, so be careful.
There is currently construction happening around parts of Shibuya Station, so depending on which line or platform you exit from, you may need to walk a more roundabout route. Especially for the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Fukutoshin Line, you may need to walk over 5 minutes from the ticket gates.
Use the "Hachiko Exit" or "Exit 8" as landmarks, and if you get lost, feel free to ask a station staff member for assistance.
When you come to the Shibuya area, be sure to enjoy bar hopping with a local guide!
Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
A 3-hour tour through Shibuya's local food districts. For $106.51, enjoy 4+ drinks (2 at first stop, all-you-can-drink at second, 1 at third) and 3-4 food dishes.
Perfect for tourists staying in Shibuya, explore hidden areas like Niku Yokocho with a local guide. Open to ages 15+, alcohol served only to 20+. Vegetarian options available.
Savor premium Japanese meat dishes including wagyu, Kobe beef, and beef sushi at three carefully selected izakayas. Sufficient portion size for dinner.
Full refund for cancellations 24 hours in advance, free date changes (subject to availability). Photo service included.
Experience Shibuya's nightlife in small groups, dining alongside locals. English-speaking guide ensures smooth communication.
Meeting point: In front of TSUTAYA, 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station's Hachiko Exit. No participation, refund, or rebooking for late arrivals.
Details here: Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
A 3.5-hour journey through Shinjuku's izakaya culture. $105.56 includes 4+ drinks (2 at first stop, all-you-can-drink at second, 1 at third) and 3 dishes. Experienced by over 20,000 guests and ranked #1 on TripAdvisor Japan 2024.
Visit three hidden izakayas serving local favorites like yakitori, gyoza, and agedashi tofu. Generous dinner portions provided.
Open to ages 15+, alcohol served only to 20+. Vegetarian options available.
Small-group tour exploring diverse areas like Omoide Yokocho and Kabukicho. Welcome to solo travelers, groups, couples, and families.
Full refund for cancellations 24 hours in advance, free date changes (subject to availability). Photo service included.
English-speaking guide provides menu explanations. Additional orders welcome.
Meeting point: Black pillar next to UNIQLO Shinjuku West Exit Store, 7-8 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit. No participation, refund, or rebooking for late arrivals.
Details here: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Tips for Taking Commemorative Photos at the Hachiko Statue
Here are some tips for taking photos at the Hachiko Statue. Please follow the rules and enjoy your photo shoot!
When There is a Line, Wait Your Turn in the Queue
On crowded days such as weekend afternoons, a line naturally forms in front of the Hachiko Statue. In such cases, do not cut in line and wait at the end of the queue. Since each group's photo time is short, your turn will come surprisingly quickly even if there is a long line.
During commuting hours when many people are in a hurry, it is also important to line up without obstructing the flow of people passing by.
If There is No Clear Line, Take Your Photo Quickly and Leave
Depending on the day, time, and weather, it may not be crowded. If you look around and there is no clear line, you can take your photo right away.
Even if there is no line, avoid retaking photos multiple times or monopolizing the spot for a long time. Once you have finished taking photos, move away quickly and give others a chance.
Early Morning is Recommended for Photo Shoots When There Are Fewer People
If you want to avoid crowds, visiting in the early morning is recommended. The time between around 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM has fewer people, allowing you to enjoy photo-taking at a relatively leisurely pace. Why not go before commuters, students, and tourists start increasing to capture the perfect angle?
After taking photos, having morning coffee at a café and then going shopping is also a recommended plan.
Nighttime Shibuya is Very Crowded and Not Recommended
Nighttime Shibuya is very crowded regardless of weekdays or weekends, so it is not recommended for photo-taking. The area in front of the Hachiko Statue, which is also used as a meeting spot, becomes especially crowded from evening onwards.
In the darkness of night, you may not be able to photograph the Hachiko Statue well. Taking photos during bright daylight is recommended.
Climbing on or Hanging from the Statue is Prohibited
Even if the area is not crowded, actions such as climbing on the statue, hanging from it, writing graffiti, or damaging it are strictly prohibited. The Hachiko Statue is not just a tourist spot but a beloved presence that has been cherished in the town of Shibuya for many years.
Please keep the story of "Hachiko, the Loyal Dog" in your heart and enjoy taking photos with warm feelings.
Must-See Spots in Shibuya to Visit Along with the Hachiko Statue, Explained by a Shibuya Resident
Around the Hachiko Statue, you'll find many attractive tourist destinations scattered throughout Shibuya. As a resident of Shibuya, I will introduce the must-see spots that I recommend visiting together with the Hachiko Statue, along with their unique charms.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Alongside the Hachiko Statue, the Scramble Crossing in front of Shibuya Station is known as an iconic symbol of Shibuya. Often called "the world's busiest intersection," approximately 3,000 people cross at once during peak hours.
Since it is frequently featured on overseas social media and in guidebooks, many foreign tourists include this spot as one of their sightseeing destinations.
The sight of crowds of people crossing all at once without bumping into each other can truly be called a work of art. If you have time, I highly recommend viewing it from SHIBUYA SKY, an observation facility located 229 meters above ground with panoramic views of Tokyo!
<Information>
Access: Directly from Hachiko Exit of JR Shibuya Station
Shibuya SKY
Source:Official website
SHIBUYA SKY, where you can look down directly at the Scramble Crossing, is an observation facility located on floors 45 to 47 of "Shibuya Scramble Square," which is directly connected to Shibuya Station.
From the ticket counter on the 14th floor, you take a dedicated elevator and quickly ascend to a world 229 meters above ground. From the rooftop observation space, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo's spectacular scenery, including Shibuya.
My recommendation is the nighttime hours when you can enjoy the night view. Please savor the sophisticated and luxurious urban atmosphere unique to Shibuya while enjoying drinks and music in the Bar area.
A date and time-specified ticket is required for entry. Please check the official website for details.
<Information>
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station, 14F of Shibuya Scramble Square
Hours: 10:00am–10:30pm (Last entry at 9:30pm / Ticket sales until 9:20pm)
Closed: January 1st
Phone: 03-4221-0229
Official Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/about/
Miyashita Park
"Miyashita Park," located about a 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station, is a mixed-use facility featuring a park, restaurants, and shops. The stylish adjoining hotel "sequence" is also recommended as a base for sightseeing in Tokyo.
The lawn area on the rooftop is such a lush green space that you'll forget you're in Shibuya. I often stop by here to relax when I'm tired from shopping. Another attractive feature is that you can enjoy cuisine from around the world in the restaurant area.
Please be sure to visit Miyashita Park, where you can enjoy yourself in many different ways.
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Access: 3-minute walk from Exit A7b of Shibuya Station
Hours: Shops 11:00am–9:00pm / Restaurants 11:00am–11:00pm
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 03-6712-5630
Official Website: https://www.miyashita-park.tokyo/
Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho
When I want to enjoy drinks casually, I often go to "Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho." True to its name "Nonbei," which means "someone who loves and often drinks alcohol," many locals who want to enjoy drinking gather here.
Its charm lies in the old-fashioned retro atmosphere that lets you experience the good old days of Japan. With about 40 unique establishments lined up, if you can't decide which one to enter, I recommend hopping around several of them.
Enjoy the Izakaya (Japanese style bar) culture unique to Japan!
<Information>
Access: 2-minute walk from Exit A7 of JR Shibuya Station
Hours: Varies by establishment
Closed: Varies by establishment
Phone: Varies by establishment
Official Website: http://www.nonbei.tokyo/
Shibuya Center-Gai
"Shibuya Center-Gai," located right by Shibuya Station, is an essential shopping street for Shibuya's youth culture. There are many spots where you can enjoy Japanese entertainment at reasonable prices, including karaoke, 100-yen shops, and game centers.
Another attractive feature is the wide variety of dining options, from popular ramen shops and stylish cafes to fast food restaurants and Izakaya.
On weekend nights, it bustles with young people and tourists, filled with energetic excitement. If you want to experience cutting-edge "Shibuya" firsthand, be sure to visit during the nighttime!
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Access: 1-minute walk from Hachiko Exit of JR Shibuya Station
The Hachiko Statue at Shibuya Station was erected to pass down the real-life story of a dog from about 100 years ago to future generations. The tale of the profound bond between Hachi and its owner Dr. Ueno, who showered it with love, and Hachi's unwavering loyalty in return has resonated with many since the statue's creation.
Even in modern times, Hachi's popularity remains undiminished, being adapted into a Hollywood film and inspiring a constant stream of new merchandise. One could say its appeal has transcended generations and national borders.
If you get a chance to visit Shibuya, be sure to stop by the Hachiko Statue. And if you know any dog lovers, share Hachi's touching story with them as well.
