Photo/Illutration Bukemaru in his younger days (Provided by Satoku Garden)

SEMBOKU, Akita Prefecture—Bukemaru, a beloved Akita Inu who charmed visitors from around the world, died of old age in the Kakunodatemachi district here, an area known as “little Kyoto.”

Bukemaru was a popular figure who brought joy to the area. Fans had traveled from Tokyo and even from as far as New York just to meet him.

Bukemaru was born in Odate in the prefecture in July 2014.

He was kept as a pet by a traditional craft shop, Satoku Garden, in the Kakunodatemachi district.

Saoki Takahashi, 57, the shop’s owner, was Bukemaru’s official caretaker. He, along with his family and shop’s staff, raised the dog with a lot of love.

At first, Bukemaru was kept tied in front of the shop.

His friendly nature and the way he greeted everyone quickly made him popular. His adorable face spread across social media, and he soon became the shop’s beloved mascot.

Every day, Bukemaru would stroll down a historic street lined with traditional samurai residences and along the Hinokinaigawa river, which is famed for its beautiful cherry blossoms.

He would sometimes jump up to hug excited tourists, while at other times, he would sit and pose for selfies with them.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the number of foreign visitors dropped, Bukemaru’s presence brought smiles to everyone who saw him.

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

At midnight on July 8, Bukemaru passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 10, which is equivalent to around 80 in human years.

Takahashi said he cannot think about getting another dog to take Bukemaru’s place just yet.

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

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