Few dogs have left a mark as deep as Marutaro: the endlessly smiling Shiba Inu who brought light, joy, and comfort to millions. Today, that legacy continues with $Maru Coin, a digital tribute to one of the most iconic animals in social media history.

Let’s explore how the legend of Marutaro evolved into a community-driven meme coin with purpose.

A Star Is Born (2007–2008)

In 2007, in Japan’s Yamagata Prefecture, a Shiba Inu named Marutaro was born. Raised by businessman and blogger Shinjiro Ono, Maru quickly became known for his unusually joyful expression, a true “smiling dog.” By 2008, Ono began sharing Maru’s life through blogs and videos, capturing the dog’s walks, naps, and quirky rituals.

What began as a personal blog turned into one of the first viral pet sensations in Japan.

Going Viral and Going Global (2010–2014)

Maru’s online popularity exploded as his YouTube videos gained millions of views. On Instagram, his account became one of the fastest-growing pet profiles, ultimately gathering over 2.3 million followers.

Brands took notice. Documentaries were produced. Calendars, stationery, and plush toys were released. Maru quickly became a household name, growing in popularity around the world. Known for his calm demeanor and constant smile, Maru became known as the “smiliest” dog on earth — even Time Magazine dubbed him “the best dog in the world.”


A Symbol of Hope After Tragedy (2011)

After the devastating Tōhoku earthquake in March 2011, Maru’s dad Ono made a decision that brought good cheer and hope to a nation in mourning: he began posting three smiling photos of Maru every day.

In this time of grief and uncertainty, Maru’s face became a silent but powerful source of comfort. His posts brought peace, showing how a single image could offer warmth even when words couldn’t.

Maru‘s “good boi” spirit brought healing to millions, and his name was permanently etched into the halls of internet history.

Becoming a Global Icon (2015–2020)

Maru’s fame only grew from there. Major publishers like Kadokawa released photo books that were translated into Chinese, Korean, and Taiwanese. Art galleries in Tokyo hosted exhibitions of his photos. Children across continents cuddled with plush toys modeled after Maru and his favorite stuffed polar bear, Pola.

His story resonated across cultures: a dog with a smile so genuine, he brought people together, both online and offline.

Legacy of Love (2021–2024)

Maru passed away on January 8, 2024. Yet his story didn’t end there. His Instagram, still active, continues to share new and archival content to his 2.3 million followers. His presence remains with us today — a timeless, gentle, and joyful dog.

In Japan and far beyond, Maru and his owner‘s photos and videos are still lifting the spirits of millions to this day, with a continual stream of new content being posted on his Instagram.

Introducing $Maru Coin: A Digital Tribute

$Maru Coin brings Marutaro’s legendary spirit into Web3, as a community-powered movement rooted in positivity, comfort, and global nostalgia.

Built to honor one of the most wholesome internet icons ever, $Maru Coin is sharing the same joyful energy that Maru shared with the world.

The token carries no gimmicks, no hype games. Just a simple message: Joy is powerful. Community matters. And smiles are forever.

The Deep Value of $Maru Coin

  • Inspired by a real icon: Marutaro is followed by Kabosu (the original mom of Doge) on Instagram, and just like Doge, Maru is loved by millions.

  • Rooted in real cultural impact: His story is documented, felt, and remembered.

  • Community-driven: Like Maru’s legacy, this coin lives through its people.

  • Mission-led: Spread happiness, not just speculation.

$Maru Is the Smile You Can Hold Onto

$Maru Coin is here to remind us why people fall in love with stories, symbols, and sincerity in the first place.

Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the community, or simply to honor one of the most heartwarming figures in internet history — Maru’s smile lives on. And now, it’s immortalized on-chain.

Sources:

Stay connected with the Maru community and follow the journey:

Twitter (X): https://x.com/ETHMARUTARO
Website: https://marueth.xyz
Dexscreener:
https://dexscreener.com/ethereum/0x4b100506cf9e8d5f3ca453d446b5297451bc9089
Dextools:
https://www.dextools.io/app/en/ether/pair-explorer/0x4b100506cf9e8d5f3ca453d446b5297451bc9089?t=1751918347191
Let the legacy live on — online and on-chain.