THE DOGHOUSE INN has recently been featured in the UK magazine
Scootering, in its special issue on Japan — a small British corner quietly gaining attention back home.
On the last day of February, we returned to THE DOGHOUSE INN, a British-style pub in Japan run by a fellow Mini enthusiast.
The exterior carries the unmistakable air of Britain. An antique blue chair sits at the entrance — the special seat of the pub’s mascot, Henry III.
On the side of the building hangs a modest RAC (Royal Automobile Club) roadside sign. Look closely and you’ll even spot a playful “★★ hotel” marking.
The owner’s love for British culture is alive in every detail.
The Real Face of Henry III
During our previous visit, we missed the chance to properly photograph Henry III, the pub’s English bulldog mascot.
This time, we came prepared with a proper camera.
When we arrived, Henry was nowhere to be seen. As it turned out, this car-loving bulldog was relaxing inside the owner’s vehicle.
Once called back inside, he appeared surprisingly composed — almost as if he had been waiting for the photoshoot.
When the camera pointed his way, he didn’t resist.
Instead, he posed with confident eye contact, giving us one perfect shot after another.
A gentle tap on his back earned us a look that clearly said,
“What do you think you’re doing?”
Even that tough expression was irresistibly charming.
When Henry retreats into his barrel-shaped house, it’s a sign he wants some quiet time. That’s the unspoken rule.
On this particular day, however, he seemed in high spirits — dragging his mat closer to us and lying down nearby.
And like many bulldogs, Henry has a weakness: food.
When a young customer offered him a squeeze-treat, he inhaled it in seconds.
Afterward, he made his rounds, politely but persistently asking for “just one more.”
Truley impossible not to love.
Sneaking into the Upcoming Garage Café
There was another exciting moment that day.
Next to the pub, preparations are underway for a new garage café. Gelato and fried chicken are said to be on the future menu.
To our surprise, our classic Mini became the very first car to enter the space. Guided by the owner, our Rover Mini fit perfectly inside.
A classic Mini resting on a checkerboard floor — a pairing that feels entirely right.
The first thing that caught my eye was a panel featuring ’Le Mans’ starring Steve McQueen.
McQueen himself was known to appreciate the charm of the Mini — a small car with enormous character.
The walls are decorated with BMC and AA signage, reinforcing the British motoring spirit.
One bulldog-themed art piece was purchased from ’Mars Speed Japan’, a classic Mini specialist in Wakayama.
Connections formed through Minis always lead to great conversations.
Visitors from Birmingham
Later that evening, a group of travelers from Birmingham, England, stepped inside.
The moment they spotted our Mini, they gave an enthusiastic “Very!” with a thumbs-up, followed by a spontaneous photo session.
The owner effortlessly switched to fluent English, explaining the drinks menu and even recommending nearby restaurants for dinner.
After their meal, they returned for a second round.
For a while, it was easy to forget we were in Japan at all.
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