#Japan #mental health #Tokyo #Therapy Dogs #Hotto Hiton Inu

From Healers to Deliverers of Comfort

In July 2026, the large dog café, Hotto Hiton Inu, located in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo, made its much-anticipated second visit to the workplace continuity support facility, "Tsuchi no Yume." This follow-up visit was particularly significant as it was a year since their last interaction, a time filled with growth and heartwarming interactions with therapy dogs.

A Journey that Began with Depression

The café's representative, Yuuki Nakamura, a former professional round net athlete, experienced a challenging phase of depression after graduating from university. Working in the financial sector led him to immense pressure, resulting in mental struggles. During this tough time, it was his connection with large dogs that provided comfort and support. This experience served as the foundation for creating the café, which aims to provide a safe space for those who, like him, face emotional challenges.

In September 2024, he opened Hotto Hiton Inu with aspirations of transforming his own healing into a source of healing for others. Nakamura sought to create a welcoming environment where individuals could relax and bond with large dogs. Along his journey, he became qualified as a dog trainer, canine nutritionist, and therapy dog handler, equipping himself with the knowledge and tools necessary to foster positive interactions between dogs and humans.

Certification for Therapy Dogs

In March 2026, a significant milestone was achieved when five out of six of the café's large dogs passed the therapy dog certification examination conducted by the Japan Therapy Dog Association. This recognition from an external organization confirmed the dogs' ability to offer comfort and peace to those they interact with. For insights on the certification process, you can check out further details on their official channels.

Reuniting with Tsuchi no Yume

The first visit from the users of Tsuchi no Yume, a workplace continuity support facility for individuals with disabilities, took place in August 2025, where nine participants experienced the joy of being with large dogs. It was a day filled with calm interactions that gradually eased the initial tension among the visitors.

Fast forward to July 2026: a delightful reunion as ten users from Tsuchi no Yume returned to the café. The moment they entered, the atmosphere was reminiscent of long-lost friends reuniting. The dogs seemed to remember their visitors, wagging their tails in excitement, creating a warm and natural atmosphere for interactions.

The café team takes the loyal return of Tsuchi no Yume’s members as a testament to the trust built over time, reflecting the true spirit of their endeavors. They felt the profound impact their therapy dogs had made in the past year, reaffirming their mission of delivering comfort and support.

Collaborative Efforts with Tsuchi no Yume

Tsuchi no Yume provides a supportive working environment that allows individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses to work at their own pace without employment contracts. Through pottery and other creative activities, they remain deeply rooted in their community.

For Hotto Hiton Inu, the ongoing relationship with such facilities transcends mere visits; it embodies a shared vision of making accessible experiences for everyone, irrespective of their mental state. Nakamura, who battled his own demons, understands the importance of comforting moments, making it his priority to create a nurturing environment through each day of operation.

Continuously Delivering Healing

The journey of a once-depressed individual who found salvation in the company of large dogs now blossoming into a caretaker of therapy dogs reflects a beautiful cycle of healing. Their reunion with Tsuchi no Yume serves as a reminder that their collective efforts are beginning to bear fruit, slowly nurturing those in need.

Hotto Hiton Inu will continue to provide a comforting space through interactions with large dogs, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or mental state, can find solace in their environment.

Meet Our Therapy Dogs

At Hotto Hiton Inu, we have six large dogs:

• - Afuro - Samoyed
• - Kinpira - Golden Retriever
• - Muchan - St. Bernard (with a dedicated Instagram and TikTok following)
• - Hiramaro - Bernese Mountain Dog
• - Fuji - White Swiss Shepherd
• - Pipi - Newfoundland and St. Bernard mix

This welcoming establishment, located just a short walk from Mizue Station, is open daily, allowing everyone to engage with these loving companions and find a bit of healing through their warmth.