Bunko Statue
Public Art: Bunko Statue
Also Known As : Bun-Chan statue, Bunkou
Sculptor: ©
Description: A bronze statue of Bunko, Japan’s first firefighting dog. Bun-chan is depicted in the seated position, as he was seen riding on the fire truck sideboard during his illustrious career. In winter Bun-chan is often seen dressed up in warm clothes.
Date Unveiled: The statue of Bunko was unveiled on the 3rd of February, 2006 on the 68th anniversary of his passing. Bunkou was 24 years old when he died in 1938. Following the unveiling fire-bells tolled in his honour, followed by fireworks.
Location: Bunko is located outside the Otaru Museum
Background to Bunko: In 1914 a little puppy was saved by a fireman amongst the ruins of a fire. The puppy’s mother had died protecting her little one. The fireman tried in vain to find the puppy a home but no one wanted him. As a last resort, the fireman took the little puppy to the fire station. The firemen named him Bunkou but over the years he was fondly known as Bun-chan.
It wasn’t long before Bunko began riding along to fires with the firemen, becoming the first firefighter dog in Japan. He was very eager to help with hoses. He even barked if someone was trapped. Bunko liked to boss the horses that pulled the fire train before the introduction of fire trucks.
His favourite treats were dried herring.
When Bun-chan passed away in February 1938, the 24 year old dog had attended over 3,000 fires. The town was devastated at his passing. He had become such a beloved member of the Otaru community and was known nationwide. All the firemen attended Bunko’s funeral and hundreds of flowers along with two boxes of his favourite treats were laid outside the fire station.
Bunko’s body was preserved and now resides in the Otaru Museum.
It was decided in 2005 that a bronze statue be erected in honour of Japan’s most famous firefighting dog. A fund was set up for public and corporate donations. Toshiro Higashihara, president of Taiyo Group Co., Ltd. donated ¥3 million towards the bronze statue.