Propped up just outside the ever-busy Shibuya station is the statue of Hachiko, a widely beloved pup adored by millions across the world for its heart-wrenching story of unwavering loyalty.
As part of the commemorative events held for Hachiko's 100th birthday, the statue was showcased last Sunday, Nov. 12, in a pop-up art installation. The display, only lasting for a day, refurbished the loyal dog statue's famous spot as a cozy nine-square-meter bedroom.
The installation depicts Hachiko sitting on top of a "comfy-looking" blanketed bed, surrounded by a food bowl, a couch chair, and some magazines atop a stool table.
The art display was promptly revealed as "Otsukaresama" or "Thank You for Your Hard Work," and was conceived by contemporary artist, Tatsu Nishino, who is known for his "site-specific art interventions" where he encapsulates historical monuments within a domestic space.
As reported by The Japan Times, Nishino shared how he hopes to someday create an even bigger artwork inspired by the pup he called "Hachiko Hotel."
TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 13: Pedestrians pass the Hachiko Statue, a popular meeting place outside Shibuya Station, located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachiko exit, on March 13, 2013 in Tokyo, Japan. Tokyu Toyoko Line Shibuya Station will be relocated underground and will join the Fukutoshin Line in March 2013, rendering Shibuya out of use after 85 years of history. A large scale redevelopment around Shibuya station is also scheduled.
Not Just a Movie: The Real Story of Hachiko
Because of a U.S. movie adaptation called "Hachi: A Dog's Tale," Hachiko's fable of love and anguish spread overseas, launching the mutt into international renown. That said, the dog's story is as real as it gets.
Hachiko was known to have been born in Nov. of 1923 at Odate, Akita Prefecture, and was adopted by Hidesaburo Ueno, a university professor who lived in Shibuya at the time.
The dog reportedly showed up in front of the Shibuya Station every day awaiting its owner's return from work, which it continued to do even after Ueno's passing in 1925. Hachiko longingly waited for over 10 years until its death in 1935.
Moved by the loyalty displayed by Hachiko, locals of Shibuya collated money to build him a statue in 1934. The statue was melted during the Second World War before a new one was erected by sculptor Takeshi Ando in 1948.
The art display featuring the popular statue is a great commemoration of Hachiko's undying love for its master.
"I'm deeply moved by the warmth I feel from the work. I think my father would have also found it interesting." Junko Ando, Takeshi Ando's daughter, said.
