After seeing “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” in late 2013, Sira Sudhindranath was curious to see the real-world town that portrayed “Bedridge” where the film story took place.
Using Google and Bing Maps, he located the train depot at Woonsocket and other film locations. That’s how the Hachi Trail (www.facebook.com/thehachitrail) was created and today, it’s a popular local destination for tourists and Hachi friends alike.
Along with help from the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, Sudhindranath gathered 12 families and 17 of their canine friends to visit the film location. They call themselves the “I Luv my Coton de Tulear” group. Welcomed by Oscar Hancock of American Beauty Signworks in Woonsocket and Donna Houle of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council members hosted the enthusiastic group who came around the United States — California, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire.
Their goal? To visit the Hachiko statue and walk the locations where Hachi: A Dog’s Tale was filmed.
Not only did they learn about the history of Woonsocket, they enjoyed lunch at Palace Pizza, followed by a snack of hot dogs and coffee milk (the official state drink of coffee syrup and milk) from New York Lunch at Market Square.
“The weather was good and we all had a very enjoyable tour of the movie locations, plus some excellent food,” said Sudhindranath.
Sira Sudhindranath, daughter Karishma, wife Malavika and dog Zack visit Woonsocket train depot.
The “I Luv my Coton de Tulear” group love Hachi!
If you have a chance, visit this charming town to say “hi” to Hachi’s statue and be sure to walk the Hachi Trail!
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