Ah, my beloved Akita Dogs. The fluffy ones are bigger than you imagine!

Akita Dogs are characterized by their pricked ears, curled tail, and fluffy, voluminous coat. Did you know that the famously loyal Hachikō, who waited for his owner at Shibuya Station, was actually an Akita Dog, not a Shiba Inu? In the past, they were active as hunting and fighting dogs, so their personality is very obedient. They are one of the Japanese dog breeds designated as a natural monument, and they are known for their great popularity overseas, including in the United States, dating back a long time.

The place where you can interact with such Akita Dogs anytime is Senshū Park, right in front of Akita Station. Here, the "Akita Dog Fureai-dokoro in Senshū Park" is held every day from May until early November, and Akita Dogs welcome visitors. It seems the Akita Dogs are on a daily rotating duty, "coming to work" from the Akita Dog Preservation Society.

You might be surprised by their size when you see them in person. Their thick, solid build suggests they are fast and, above all, strong. If you imagine a Shiba Inu, the size difference will surprise you, and you'll think, "Wow! They're this big!?" and then be "Oh, so cool!" enthralled by them. The Akita Dog is the only large dog among Japanese dog breeds.