Hachiko Square - Image 1
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Hachiko Statue

4.3
·1k reviews·Shibuya, Japan

Iconic bronze statue of a loyal dog, a beloved meeting point and symbol of devotion in the heart of Shibuya.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Hachiko Square - Image 1

Hachiko Statue

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic bronze statue of a loyal dog, a beloved meeting point and symbol of devotion in the heart of Shibuya.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A must-see in Shibuya, this statue is a symbol of loyalty and a popular meeting spot."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Dog

Visit early morning or late night to avoid crowds and get clear photos of the Hachiko statue.

📸 Patience for Photos

Expect a line to take photos with the statue. Be patient and respectful of others waiting.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Loyal Hachiko Statue

The Loyal Hachiko Statue

Shibuya Station, Exit 8

Iconic bronze statue of the loyal Akita dog, a symbol of devotion and a popular meeting point.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Adjacent to Hachiko Statue

Experience the world's busiest intersection, a mesmerizing dance of pedestrians from all directions.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Hachiko

The Hachiko Statue is a popular meeting spot and photo op, often bustling with people. For a less crowded experience and easier photos, aim for early mornings or late evenings. Weekends and peak commuting hours will be significantly busier.

Respect the Loyal Companion

Hachiko is a beloved national symbol of loyalty in Japan. While many visitors want to pat the statue, be mindful of others waiting for their turn. Patience is key to getting your moment with this iconic bronze figure.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, mid-day
Why
Slightly less busy than peak
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hachiko

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Dog

Visit early morning or late night to avoid crowds and get clear photos of the Hachiko statue. Reddit

📸 Patience for Photos

Expect a line to take photos with the statue. Be patient and respectful of others waiting. Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do near Shibuya Crossing

reddit.com

Japan Newbies... Shibuya Suggestions

📍 Popular Meet-Up Point

It's a very busy meeting spot, so expect lots of people around. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Mind the Scramble

Be cautious when crossing Shibuya Scramble and taking photos simultaneously. Reddit

reddit.com

Is this too packed for one day?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Dog

Visit early morning or late night to avoid crowds and get clear photos of the Hachiko statue. Reddit

📸 Patience for Photos

Expect a line to take photos with the statue. Be patient and respectful of others waiting. Reddit

📍 Popular Meet-Up Point

It's a very busy meeting spot, so expect lots of people around. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Mind the Scramble

Be cautious when crossing Shibuya Scramble and taking photos simultaneously. Reddit

🎁 Hachi Gift Shop

A cute gift shop nearby offers Hachiko-themed items. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Hachiko Statue is a beloved and iconic landmark, drawing crowds for its poignant story of loyalty. While often busy, it's considered a must-visit in Shibuya for a photo opportunity and as a central meeting point. Some visitors note challenges with crowds and construction impacting views, but the statue's impact remains strong.

"This square is crowded because of Shibuya Crossings nearby. Many people gathered here to take a picture of the crossings, and also the Hachiko statue. It is getting crowded at the peak hours and the evening, while many tourists and people who commute from Shibuya station by the trains and subways through this square."

ALG87

"A must-see in Shibuya. If you would like to take a picture of, or with, Hachiko's statue, there will be a waiting line. In the morning that wait me be 5-10 minutes, but the line gets a lot longer in the afternoon.

Do spend a moment at the Shibuya Scramble, the busiest intersection in Tokyo. Just crossing is fun, but please be careful when crossing and also trying to take photos or a video while walking. You are not alone....

Another great view is from one of the surrounding buildings. Tip: make a timelapse video. I've added one here."

Arjen Traas

"Very crowded place by the tourist. Huge open space. But it's a must-visit place in SHIBUYA. The place is named after HACHIKO, a national symbol of loyalty.

Wheelchair ♿ accessibility available ✅"

Biswajit Chakraborty

What People Like

Symbol of loyalty
Iconic meeting point
Great photo op

What People Dislike

Very crowded
Construction impact

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hachiko Statue is located right outside the Hachiko Exit (Exit 8) of Shibuya Station. It's easily accessible via JR lines, Tokyo Metro, and Tokyu/Keio lines. Reddit

Shibuya Station is a major hub and can be overwhelming. Follow signs for the 'Hachiko Exit' (ハチ公口) for the most direct route to the statue. Reddit

The JR Yamanote Line is a convenient loop line connecting major Tokyo hubs like Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, and Ueno directly to Shibuya. Reddit

Parking is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic and limited availability in Shibuya. Public transport is the most efficient way to visit. Reddit

Yes, taxis can drop you off near Shibuya Station, but be prepared for potential traffic delays in the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Hachiko Statue is a public monument and is free to visit. Reddit

The area around the Hachiko Statue is accessible 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. Reddit

There is no admission fee to view or take photos with the Hachiko Statue. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, visit very early in the morning or late at night. Weekends and evenings are typically the busiest. Reddit

While there are no official restrictions, it's a busy public space. Please be mindful of others and avoid blocking access. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Be prepared to wait for your turn, especially during peak hours. Visiting early morning or late night offers the best chance for unobstructed photos. Reddit

Yes, the area around the Hachiko Statue is generally accessible for wheelchairs. Reddit

The Hachiko Statue commemorates Hachiko, an Akita dog who famously waited for his owner at Shibuya Station every day, even after his owner's death. He is a symbol of loyalty. Reddit

While many visitors do, it's a public monument. Be respectful of others waiting and avoid prolonged touching. Reddit

The statue is right next to the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. You can also explore the many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues in the Shibuya area. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hachiko Statue is a quick and engaging stop for families. Kids are often fascinated by the story of the loyal dog. It's a great spot for a memorable photo opportunity. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times, which might make it a bit challenging with very young children. Consider visiting early in the morning to make the experience more relaxed. Reddit

Combine your visit with the nearby Shibuya Scramble Crossing, which can be a thrilling sight for children. Pointing out the different directions people are walking can be a fun game. There are also plenty of family-friendly dining options in the Shibuya area for a meal or snack afterward.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Hachiko Statue offers a classic Tokyo photo opportunity. For the best shots, aim for early morning or late evening when the crowds are minimal. This allows for unobstructed views and cleaner compositions. Consider using a wider lens to capture the statue in context with the surrounding station or the Shibuya Scramble. Reddit

Experiment with different angles and perspectives. The statue itself is well-lit, making it suitable for photography even after dark. For a more dynamic shot, try capturing the statue with the bustling Shibuya Scramble Crossing in the background, perhaps during a time-lapse. The nearby gift shop also offers unique Hachiko-themed souvenirs that can make for interesting flat-lay photography.

🚶 Solo Travelers

The Hachiko Statue is an iconic landmark and a perfect spot for solo travelers to experience a piece of Tokyo's heart. It's a popular meeting point, so even if you're alone, you'll be surrounded by activity. Take your time to observe the people and the atmosphere. Reddit

Use the statue as a starting point to explore Shibuya. The nearby Scramble Crossing is a must-see, and you can easily spend hours browsing the shops or enjoying a coffee at a cafe overlooking the intersection. The statue itself is a great place to pause and reflect on the stories of loyalty and connection in a bustling city.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enduring Legend of Hachiko

The Hachiko Statue is more than just a landmark; it's a poignant tribute to an extraordinary bond between a dog and his owner. Hachiko, an Akita Inu, became famous for his unwavering loyalty. Every day, he would accompany his owner, Professor Ueno Hidesaburō, to Shibuya Station and return to greet him upon his arrival. This routine continued for nearly ten years, even after Professor Ueno tragically passed away. Hachiko continued to wait at the station daily, becoming a familiar and beloved figure to locals and commuters.

His story gained national attention, and upon his death in 1935, a bronze statue was erected in his honor at Shibuya Station, precisely where he used to wait. The Hachiko memorial statue serves as a powerful reminder of loyalty, devotion, and the enduring impact of animal companionship. It's a place where people gather, reflect, and often share stories of their own beloved pets. The Hachiko monument has become a symbol of unwavering faithfulness, resonating deeply with Japanese culture and visitors alike.

Today, the bronze statue of Hachiko remains one of Tokyo's most recognizable meeting points. While the original statue was damaged during World War II, a new one was cast and stands in its place. The area around the statue is often crowded, reflecting its enduring popularity. Many visitors take photos, and some even leave small offerings or pat the statue, a gesture of affection for the loyal dog. The Hachiko sculpture is a must-see for anyone visiting Shibuya, offering a moment of reflection amidst the city's vibrant energy.

Navigating the Shibuya Scramble

Adjacent to the Hachiko Statue lies the world-renowned Shibuya Scramble Crossing. This iconic intersection is a spectacle of organized chaos, where hundreds, sometimes thousands, of pedestrians cross from all directions simultaneously when the lights change. It's a must-experience for any visitor to Tokyo, offering a unique glimpse into the city's dynamic pulse.

To truly appreciate the Shibuya Scramble, consider viewing it from above. Many cafes and shops in the surrounding buildings, like the Starbucks overlooking the crossing, offer prime vantage points. Watching the synchronized flow of people from these elevated spots can be mesmerizing. For photographers, capturing the sheer scale and energy of the scramble can be a rewarding challenge. Time-lapse videos are particularly popular for showcasing the constant movement. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and pedestrian traffic if you choose to cross yourself, as it can be quite intense. Reddit

The Hachiko statue location makes it the perfect starting point to witness this urban phenomenon. After paying your respects to Hachiko, step out and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Shibuya. The area is also a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a destination in itself. Whether you're crossing it, watching it, or photographing it, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is an unforgettable Tokyo experience.

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