News On Japan

Farewell to the World's Most Famous Shiba Inu: Kabosu

CHIBA, May 29 (News On Japan) - Kabosu, a Shiba Inu who captured the hearts of millions, passed away on the morning of the 24th at around 7:50 AM. Atsuko Sato, Kabosu's owner, shared her final moments, saying, 'I kept stroking her and talking to her until she eventually stopped moving.'

Kabosu, an 18-year-old female dog from Chiba Prefecture, was known for her incredible journey from being a rescued dog to an internet sensation. Over 250 fans attended the farewell ceremony, including many from overseas.

Sato expressed her surprise at the turnout, stating, 'I was astonished by the long lines. Many people came from abroad, including Taiwan and South Korea.'

Several international media outlets also covered the event. Kabosu's life took a dramatic turn when a photo of her posted on Sato's blog became the face of the cryptocurrency Dogecoin. Additionally, Elon Musk, who acquired Twitter last year, posted an image of Kabosu, temporarily changing Twitter's logo from the blue bird to Kabosu.

Reflecting on this moment, Sato realized the immense power of the internet. She pondered, 'I think Kabosu had a mission that I could never have imagined.'

What legacy did the world's most famous Shiba Inu leave behind?

Sato shared, 'Through Kabosu, I've made many friends worldwide and received support from many kind-hearted people. I've built human connections through her.'

While Kabosu's fame brought Sato a network of friends, it also attracted numerous offers from companies looking to profit from Kabosu's image. Three years ago, to combat this exploitation, Sato used digital technology to create tamper-proof images of Kabosu and auctioned them for charity, raising over 500 million yen. The proceeds, after expenses, were donated entirely to children's rights organizations both domestically and internationally.

In her message regarding Kabosu's passing, Sato said, 'We've received reports that new school buildings and dormitories have been constructed in Vietnam, Iraq, and South Sudan, and the children there are smiling happily. By adopting rescue dogs like Kabosu, such miracles can happen, and this is the message I want to convey.'

Source: ANN

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

Chiba Prefecture has announced a plan to revise the toll system on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, currently being tested, by doubling toll fees during peak congestion hours from April next year.

The issue of diplomatic vehicles avoiding parking fines in Japan due to diplomatic immunity continues, with Russia reaching a record-high number of violations, accounting for 63% of the total.

The BBC has announced its 2024 edition of '100 Women,' celebrating individuals who have made a significant impact on society, selecting Japanese talent Naomi Watanabe (37) as one of the honorees.

Authorities in Osaka's Nishinari Ward carried out a contentious forced eviction at the Airin General Center, a facility once central to the city’s day-laborer community, sparking protests from residents and supporters who condemned the move as a violation of human rights and dignity, while officials cited safety concerns and legal rulings as justification for the operation.

The JR Group announced on December 2nd that it will end the sale of "round-trip tickets" by around March 2026. Additionally, "consecutive trip tickets" will also be discontinued during the same period.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Society NEWS

Authorities in Osaka's Nishinari Ward carried out a contentious forced eviction at the Airin General Center, a facility once central to the city’s day-laborer community, sparking protests from residents and supporters who condemned the move as a violation of human rights and dignity, while officials cited safety concerns and legal rulings as justification for the operation.

A bear that had entered a supermarket in Akita City and injured an employee was removed from the premises on December 2nd, over 55 hours after its initial intrusion.

Today, I asked my friend's to share their experiences about dating in Japan as a mixed race! (JESSEOGN)

Princess Aiko, the daughter of Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, turned 23 on Sunday. (NHK)

A 35-year-old father, Takahiro Imanishi, was acquitted by the Osaka High Court on November 28th after being sentenced to 12 years in prison for the death of his 2-year-old stepdaughter, Noa.

Remains of what is thought to be the largest building of the late 7th century have been discovered at the Asuka Palace site in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture. It is believed to have been the residence of an emperor.

Concerns have grown around the Harumi Flag area, the former Olympic Village turned residential complex, where a series of mysterious key boxes have been found.

Toxic pufferfish were sold without removing poisonous parts in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, prompting authorities to issue a warning and request product returns.