Hachi, a dog memorialized in a 2009 film as well as several other film adaptations, is known for his remarkable loyalty to his owner. Her story is an important tale in Japan demonstrating loyalty and devotion. What kind of dog was Hachi?
What breed of dog was Hachi?
![Photo of loyal dog Hachiko, better known as Hachi](https://www.dogtipper.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Faithful_Dog_Hachiko_Photo.png.webp)
Photo of loyal dog Hachiko (chūken Hachikō (忠犬ハチ公)). Photo courtesy Wikipedia
Hachi, also known as Hachikō, was a Akita dog, a breed native to the mountainous regions of northern Japan.
Known for their loyalty to their family, Akita tend to be calm, dignified, and extremely affectionate with loved ones. Despite their stoic demeanor, they are highly intelligent and responsive, making them versatile in roles ranging from companionship to various professional tasks in modern society.
Each year, the Akita is honored International Akita Day.
The True Story of Hachi
![](https://www.dogtipper.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Chuken_Hachiko_with_Ueno_Family.png.webp)
Hachikō’s story is one of unwavering loyalty and devotion.
Hachikō was an Akita dog born in 1923 in Japan. He was adopted by Hidesaburo-Ueno, professor at the University of Tokyo. Every day, Hachikō waited for Ueno at Shibuya Station to return from work.
Unfortunately, in May 1925, Ueno suddenly died of a brain hemorrhage while at work, leaving Hachikō to wait.
Despite Ueno’s death, Hachikō continued to return to Shibuya Station. every day at that time, its owner would have returned from work and was waiting for it. This daily vigil lasted almost 10 years.
Hachikō’s faithful expectation attracted the attention of other travelers and locals, who began bringing him food and treats.
In 1932, an article was published about him in a major Japanese newspaper, which brought him national attention. Many people were moved by his story of loyalty and dedication.
Tragically, on March 8, 1935, Hachikō was found dead on a street in Shibuya. His death marked the end of a nearly 10-year vigil awaiting its owner.
Honor Hachi Today
Hachikō’s story has become a national symbol of loyalty in Japan, inspiring numerous books, films and documentaries.
In 1934, a bronze sculpture was erected in his honor at the Palais de Tokyo Shibuya Stationand Hachi himself was present for the dedication.
![](https://www.dogtipper.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/One_anniversary_of_Hachiko_19360308_Scan10038.jpg)
Hachiko is remembered on the first anniversary of his death, the March 8, 1936.
Today, the statue remains a popular meeting point at the station and a symbol of loyalty and devotion.
Hachikō’s body is buried alongside his beloved teacher.
![](https://www.dogtipper.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Hachikos_grave_in_the_Aoyama_cemetery_Minatoku_Tokyo_Japan.jpg)
Hachiko’s grave at Aoyama Cemetery in Tokyo.
Its fur has been used to create mounted remains which are preserved at National Science Museum of Japan in Ueno, Tokyo. (His remains are displayed alongside the dogs that survived an expedition to Antarctica that inspired the film eight under.)
Hachikō’s story was adapted into a film titled Hachi: A Dog Story released in 2009. In this American adaptation of the story, Richard Gere plays the dog’s owner, a teacher who forms a special bond with the dog, Hachi. The film takes a few liberties with the true story, shifting the setting to the United States, but it retains the heart of the touching story about loyalty and the deep bond between a dog and its owner.
The original Japanese story has also been depicted in several Japanese films, including Hachikō Monogatari released in 1987, which comes closer to the actual events.
Hachikō’s remarkable story continues to touch hearts around the world, symbolizing the loyalty and deep bond that can exist between humans and dogs.