Hachikō at the National Museum of Nature and Science

While millions know the iconic bronze statue outside Shibuya Station, the actual preserved remains of Hachikō, Japan's legendary loyal Akita, rest inside the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno. For nine faithful years after his owner's sudden passing, Hachikō returned to the train station every day in hopes of a reunion that never came. Today, the taxidermied canine is displayed low in his glass case at true standing height, inviting visitors to meet him at eye level. Flanked by other heroic canines like the Antarctic expedition survivor Jiro, this display offers an intimate and moving encounter with an enduring symbol of devotion.

• animals
• dogs
• history
• museum exhibits
• taxidermy
• ueno park