Hachiko Waits

Hachiko Waits takes place in Tokyo in the 1920s, a period when cultural values like loyalty, respect, and social harmony were deeply ingrained in Japanese society. These values were shaped by Confucian teachings, which emphasize duty to family, respect for authority, and the importance of maintaining social order. Confucianism stresses harmony above all else, which is reflected in Hachiko Waits in the way the people of Japan selflessly contribute money to help Hachiko, Yasuo, and Mr. Yashikawa and to benefit the community at large. The public is even willing to donate money to commission a statue honoring Hachiko, a gesture that reflects their deep commitment to collectivism and appreciation of Hachiko’s dedication to and respect for his master. 

The public’s response to Hachiko also owes something to the samurai code of bushido, which emphasizes duty, honor, and perseverance. The holiday on which Professor Ueno dies, Boys’ Day (now Children’s Day), traditionally celebrates some of these same values; in the book, the Professor takes the opportunity the holiday affords to instill in Hachiko the utmost importance of remaining brave, dutiful, and diligent. The novel thus depicts values like loyalty and perseverance not merely as personal principles but as societal ideals informed by Japan’s unique culture.