A previously unseen photograph of Hachiko, the renowned Akita dog immortalized by the statue at Shibuya Station, has been discovered. This image, which depicts Hachiko raising his paw in front of the station, offers a unique glimpse into the beloved dog’s behavior.
The photograph, donated to the Shibuya Folk and Literary Shirane Memorial Museum in February by 91-year-old Kenji Gomi from Akiruno, Tokyo, appears to show his father, station worker Kasaburo Gomi, feeding Hachiko. This new image is reportedly the only known material demonstrating that Hachiko could perform this gesture, as it was previously believed that Hachiko’s owner, Professor Hidesaburo Ueno, had not trained him in any tricks.
Keita Matsui, a museum official with extensive knowledge of Hachiko, estimates the photograph was taken between December 1933 and January 1934. Matsui speculates that while Ueno did not teach Hachiko any tricks, the dog may have learned to offer his paw from interactions with the public after Ueno’s death. Typically, dogs offer their paw while seated, but Hachiko is shown standing in this photograph, suggesting he may have only performed the trick imperfectly.
The museum has enlarged and is currently showcasing the photograph, which will be on display until October 1. Admission to view the exhibit is ¥100 per person, with the museum closed on Mondays or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday.
This discovery comes in the wake of several other new photos of Hachiko found last year during events marking the 100th anniversary of his birth. The museum anticipates uncovering more images as interest in Hachiko continues.
Last autumn, the museum hosted a special exhibition featuring two newly discovered photos of Hachiko, donated in honor of his centenary. These images, including both frontal and profile views, were identified as belonging to the late owner of a photo studio in Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture. Additionally, a photo from Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, depicting Hachiko with a visitor in front of his statue, was also added to the museum’s collection.
To date, approximately 80 photos of Hachiko have been confirmed. Given the historical context—when cameras were less common and people only photographed significant moments—finding such a number of images is considered rare. The museum encourages anyone with Hachiko photos, regardless of quality, to come forward.
“A multitude of photos of Hachiko surviving to this day is a testament to the enduring affection for this remarkable dog across generations,” said a museum representative.
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