The valiant breed of Akita Inu was brought to America by Helen Keller. The Japanese, in tribute to Helen, showed her a statue of Hachiko located in Shibuya Station and told her his story. When Helen expressed her desire to have her own Akita puppy, this puppy became the first of the breed to be introduced to America. Keller was delighted with the dog, but unfortunately, the dog died of the plague. Upon hearing this news, the Japanese government officially introduced Helen to his older brother.