Statue of Hachikō, Bronze statue at Shibuya Station, Japan.
The Statue of Hachikō stands outside Shibuya Station and shows a seated bronze Akita dog with fine details in the fur and a lifelike posture. The figure rests on a low base and is surrounded by people meeting there or taking photographs.
An earlier version of the figure was unveiled in 1934 but had to be melted down during World War II for metal needs. Takeshi Ando created the current replica in 1948, which has stood in the same spot ever since.
The figure shows a seated Akita dog facing the station exit, recalling a story of loyalty when an animal returned daily to wait for its deceased owner. Visitors often touch the paws or pose beside it, creating visible wear on the surface over the years.
The location at the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station can be reached through several train lines and sits directly at street level. The area can be very crowded especially in the afternoon and evening, so a visit in the early morning is often calmer.
The animal to whom the figure is dedicated was itself present at the first unveiling in 1934, only one year before it passed away. On each anniversary of its death in March, people gather at this spot for a brief memorial ceremony.
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