Twitter user Pita Ochave recently captured a tender moment between an older man and his little dog posing in front of the Hachiko monument in Shibuya, Japan. The statue is a tribute to the famously loyal Akita, whose story of undying affection for his owner is part of Japanese national lore.
The photos Ochave posted went viral immediately, sparking tears, joy, and photo replies from dog lovers around the globe.
Dog posing with Hachiko
THIS LIL CUTIE WAS POSING FOR HIS OWNER IN FRONT OF THE HACHIKO STATUE IM IN TEARS pic.twitter.com/wy3oKao6ZS
— Pita (@pitathecrackers) January 3, 2017
Users responded with closeups from Pita’s photos, commenting on every person in the frame.
Closeup of the owner taking the picture of his dog
@pitathecrackers @STFUkarol “work that shit” pic.twitter.com/VXHELfbQv9
— sriracha papí (@1800SADDAD) January 4, 2017
A fellow Shibuya regular recognized the dog and man from the neighborhood.
Internet famous dog
@pitathecrackers @dog_rates they visited my friend’s cafe.. im so happy they are still thriving!!!! pic.twitter.com/cQalC1p3Va
— nickl (@nickltine) January 3, 2017
And another local shared an image of a cat who regularly hangs out on the statue. On the same day the cat was specially dressed for the occasion.
Cat posing with Hachiko
@pitathecrackers there was a cat there today too around 5 pm!! Cute animal day apparently pic.twitter.com/j5Z8QEeHeR
— アシュリー@日本12/22-1/12 (@Lolligag_love) January 3, 2017
The statue is popular with tourists and locals alike, and is frequently used as a place to meet up when shopping.
