Researched guide · Checked on Nov 11, 2026
The bronze statue of Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog, stands right outside Shibuya Station and is one of Tokyo’s most famous meeting points. This page covers where to find it, the true story behind it and how to use it as a place to meet. For the rest of the area, see our Shibuya guide.
Quick facts
| Where | Hachiko Square, just outside Shibuya Station, next to the Scramble Crossing |
| Station exit | Follow the signs for the Hachiko Exit |
| Opening hours | None. The statue is outdoors in a public square, and there is no ticket |
| Meeting tips | Very crowded, so agree on exactly where you will stand. Come earlier in the day for a photo |
| Last checked | November 2026 |
The story of Hachiko
Hachiko was an Akita dog born in November 1923 in Odate, Akita Prefecture. His owner was Professor Hidesaburo Ueno of the Faculty of Agriculture at Tokyo Imperial University, today the University of Tokyo. Hachiko went with the professor to Shibuya Station.
After the professor died suddenly, Hachiko kept waiting for him at the ticket gate of Shibuya Station. The first bronze statue of Hachiko was put up in front of the station in 1934, and Hachiko himself took part in the unveiling. He died on March 8, 1935.
Using Hachiko as a meeting point
- Expect a crowd. The statue is so popular as a meeting point that it can be hard to find your friends there.
- Be specific. Agree on which side of the statue you will stand, and share your location on your phone.
- Photos: come earlier in the day if you want a photo with Hachiko without a long wait.
- Next door: the Scramble Crossing is right beside the square. See our Shibuya Crossing guide for the best places to watch it.
Getting there
- Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line and many other lines): follow the signs for the Hachiko Exit. The statue is in the square outside.
- Shibuya Station is under long-term redevelopment, so routes inside the station can change. Keep following the Hachiko Exit signs.
FAQ
Where is the Hachiko statue?
In Hachiko Square, just outside the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, next to the Scramble Crossing.
Is the Hachiko statue free to see?
Yes. It stands outdoors in a public square, so there is no ticket and no opening time.
Who was Hachiko waiting for?
His owner, Professor Hidesaburo Ueno of Tokyo Imperial University. After the professor died suddenly, Hachiko kept waiting for him at Shibuya Station.
When was the Hachiko statue built?
The first bronze statue was put up in front of Shibuya Station in 1934, and Hachiko attended the unveiling.
Is Hachiko a good place to meet friends?
It is famous for it, but it gets very crowded. Agree on exactly where you will stand, and share your location on your phone.
Keep reading
Sources
This page is based on the official information below, not on our own visit. Last checked: November 2026. Facts last checked against official sources on November 11, 2026. Station routes can change, so please follow the signs on the day.
