Four other famous dog stories

Having shared about two of Japan's famous dogs, Taro and Jiro, and about a somewhat 'famous' dog in Saitama Prefecture, it got me curious about other famous dogs in Japan. Everyone whose ever been to Japan probably knows about Hachiko, but let's start with that one;

1. Hachikō; The Loyal Dog of Shibuya

Probably Japan’s most famous dog Hachikō waited at Shibuya Station every day for nearly ten years after his owner passed away. His bronze statue is now one of Tokyo’s most iconic meeting spots.

2. Shiro; The Dog Who Swam Home

A beloved Okinawan story: Shiro, separated from his owner on a neighboring island, swam several kilometers across open sea to return home. The tale inspired a hit song and TV drama.

3. Wasao; The “Cugly” Akita

Wasao became famous for his fluffy, unkempt appearance and sweet personality. He lived in Ajigasawa, Aomori, where he became a local tourism ambassador and even starred in a film. A bronze statue was erected in his memory in Ajigasawa in 2021.

4. Mari; The Earthquake Hero Dog

Mari, a Shiba Inu from Niigata, saved her puppies and alerted rescuers during the 2004 Chuetsu Earthquake. Her story was adapted into the film A Tale of Mari and Three Puppies.

Do you know any other locally / famous heartwarming dog stories? The feature photo is of the dog statue in the Moroyama dog story that is linked in the opening paragraph.