The world-famous Akita Inu Bukemaru has died

SEMBOKU, Akita Prefecture — Bukemaru, a popular Akita Inu who charmed visitors from all over the world, died of old age in the local Kakunodatemachi district, an area known as “Little Kyoto.”

Bukemaru was a popular figure who brought joy to the area, with fans traveling from Tokyo and even as far away as New York just to meet him.

Bukemaru was born in July 2014 in Odate, Prefecture.

He was kept as a pet in Satoku Garden, a traditional handicraft shop in Kakunodatemachi district.

Saoki Takahashi, 57, the shop owner, was Bukemaru's official keeper. He raised the dog with love along with his family and the shop staff.

Initially, Bukemaru was held handcuffed in front of the store.

His friendly nature and the way he greeted everyone quickly made him popular. His cute face spread on social media and he soon became the store's popular mascot.

Every day, Bukemaru strolled through a historic street lined with traditional samurai residences and along the Hinokinaigawa River, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms.

Sometimes he jumped up to hug excited tourists, and other times he sat and posed for selfies with them.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the number of foreign visitors declined, Bukemaru's presence brought a smile to the face of everyone who saw him.

“I think his presence attracted tourists,” Takahashi said, expressing gratitude for his beloved dog.

At midnight on July 8, Bukemaru died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 10, which is about 80 human years.

Takahashi said he couldn't imagine getting another dog to take Bukemaru's place at the moment.

“I have so many memories of Bukemaru,” he said.