Two prized Japanese Akita dogs have been appointed as directors of Odate-Noshiro Airport, according to NHK on May 20.
The two Akita dogs, named “Rensui” and “Ruka,” are siblings from the same mother, owned by Masato Chiba, 67, from Odate city (Akita Prefecture).
The appointment was decided by Odate Mayor Kensuke Ishida, who also heads the airport service promotion council. This decision marks the 10th anniversary of the initiative to have Akita dogs greet passengers at Odate-Noshiro Airport, starting in June.
The duties of the “airport directors” are simple: they are led to welcome passengers arriving on flights and take photos with them. Rensui and Ruka will turn 4 years old on May 23.
Mayor Ishida expressed hope that the presence of these Akita dogs will bring warmth and delight to passengers while promoting the region’s charm.
The Akita is a native breed of Akita Prefecture, with origins tracing back to the 1630s. Adult Akitas stand about 60 cm tall and weigh between 30 and 50 kg.
The 2009 hit film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, starring Richard Gere, drew significant attention to this breed. However, the Akita population in Japan has been declining, from 6,671 in 2017 to 1,832 in 2023.
Photos: Odate-Noshiro Airport’s Facebook page