japanese compassion

Hey there Japanites, I'm wondering if anyone knows of(and can suggest) any other unique attractions like tama the railway cat, or the story surrounding the statue of hachicko. Not particularly animal themed, despite the given examples, but rather tales of japanese compassion/affection.

Also if i can trouble you for some travel advise: I plan to land in nagoya, travel up to tokyo then down through kyoto, osaka and back to nagoya, and will be in japan for two weeks - should i purchase a railway pass or would it be best to buy tickets as needed?
Thanks in advance

There is a lot of compassion/promotion for local food specialties.

For example, there is a gyoza statue in Utsunomiya City. And an apple statue in Hirosaki.

I am afraid I could not come up with anything more interesting right now.

I plan to land in nagoya, travel up to tokyo then down through kyoto, osaka and back to nagoya, and will be in japan for two weeks - should i purchase a railway pass or would it be best to buy

If you do all the major trips within a 7-day period, a 7-day Japan Rail Pass will pay off. Otherwise, regular tickets will come cheaper.

some information about Tama the stationmaster cat:

http://www.japan-guide.com/forum/quereadisplay.html?0+5...