When you picture a ferry ride across the scenic waters of Hiroshima’s islands, you might think of gentle waves, salty breezes, and the hum of an engine carrying passengers from one shore to another. But for those who board a certain small island ferry, the most unforgettable part of their trip isn’t the sea or even the destination. It’s a golden Labrador named Shun.
Shun isn’t just a pet tagging along with his owner. He has a job. Sitting proudly at the ticket counter, wearing a perfectly fitted captain’s hat, Shun greets every passenger with a grin that could melt the iciest heart. And when someone drops their coins into the fare box, Shun performs his signature move: three perfect tail wags, as though to confirm, “Your payment has been received. Enjoy your trip.”
What began as a quirky habit has blossomed into a beloved ritual, drawing tourists from across Japan and beyond who admit they come as much for Shun as they do for the ferry ride itself.
A Working Dog With a Twist
Dogs have held working roles in human society for centuries: herding sheep, guiding the blind, sniffing out danger. But Shun has carved out a role of his own, one that blends utility, charm, and a dash of humor.
The story goes that Shun’s owner, who runs the ferry service, often brought him along for company during long days of transporting passengers. One afternoon, Shun took it upon himself to sit beside the ticket counter. As passengers dropped their coins into the metal fare box, he wagged his tail with such perfect timing that people burst into laughter. Word spread quickly, and soon, the Labrador was not just a mascot. He was the “official” fare collector.
Why Shun Matters
At first glance, this might seem like just a fun anecdote. But Shun’s story speaks to something deeper: the way dogs bring joy into everyday routines. Commuting on a ferry, like commuting on a train, can become monotonous. But Shun transforms a simple exchange of coins into a moment of connection.
Tourists leave smiling. Many snap photos or short videos to share online, helping spread Hiroshima’s charm across the globe.
Local kids feel reassured. Some even admit they look forward to ferry rides solely because of Shun’s “stamp of approval.”
The community takes pride. Islanders often speak of Shun as part of their cultural identity, a warm ambassador who greets every guest.
The Tourism Effect
Japan has a long tradition of animal mascots, from Kumamon the bear in Kumamoto Prefecture to stationmaster cats like Tama in Wakayama. Shun fits perfectly into this tradition. Mascots humanize places, attract visitors, and create memorable stories worth retelling.
Tour companies have started highlighting Shun in their itineraries. Blog posts and travel influencers post captions like:
“Came for the ferry, stayed for the Labrador.”
“Shun wagged three times just for me—best ticket I’ve ever bought.”
It’s a reminder that sometimes the smallest, most personal experiences are what travelers remember most.
Life on the Island
When he’s not busy collecting fares, Shun enjoys all the things Labradors love best: chasing waves, lounging in the sun, and begging for snacks from passengers who can’t resist his smile. His routine is structured around the ferry schedule, and regulars say he seems to know exactly when it’s time to get “back to work.”
Despite his popularity, Shun remains humble—or perhaps blissfully unaware. To him, the ferry counter isn’t a stage. It’s simply where he gets to sit near people, bask in their attention, and show loyalty to his owner’s daily work.
Why Dogs Like Shun Captivate Us
Part of Shun’s magic lies in how effortlessly he bridges the gap between work and play, duty and delight. In a world where so much feels transactional and rushed, his tail-wagging ritual slows people down, reminding them that joy can be found in the smallest gestures.
Studies have long shown that interactions with dogs reduce stress, release oxytocin, and create feelings of connection. Shun embodies this science every day, transforming a coin drop into a dose of happiness.
Visiting Shun the Ferry Fare Collector
For travelers hoping to meet Shun in person, here’s what you need to know:
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Location: A small island ferry route in Hiroshima Prefecture. Locals can direct you to the specific ferry—Shun is well known in the area.
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Best time: Shun usually “works” during the busiest hours when tourists are boarding, particularly on weekends and holidays.
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Etiquette: While everyone wants a photo, it’s best to be respectful. Shun is still a dog, and like any hardworking employee, he appreciates patience and kindness.
A Symbol of Joy
In the end, Shun is more than a Labrador in a captain’s hat. He is a reminder that our relationships with animals don’t just add companionship. They can redefine our experience of place, travel, and even daily routines.
When passengers leave the ferry, they don’t just recall the ocean breeze or the rhythm of waves. They remember the wagging tail that welcomed them aboard, sealing their ticket with joy.
And so, Shun the Ferry Fare Collector has become a living story of Hiroshima, one tail wag at a time.