Imaya’s Hamburger Ropponmatsu Store
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Do you know “Imaya’s Hamburger”?
Imaya’s Hamburger is a burger shop run by Mr. Imazaki, known as “the alien,” at the Nishi Park Observatory in Fukuoka City. This soul food of Fukuoka has been beloved by locals for over 50 years! Since its establishment in 1972, people from outside the prefecture and even from overseas still visit to experience its deliciousness.
There are currently two locations: the main Imaya’s Hamburger shop managed by founder Mr. Imazaki at Nishi Park, and another shop at Ropponmatsu run by his disciple, Mr. Wakamura. This time, I visited the Ropponmatsu shop!
A hamburger in a hot dog style
Imaya’s hamburgers have a unique hot dog style.
There’s a wait as they start grilling after you order, but it’s definitely worth it. The freshly grilled burger has a crispy bun, a juicy filling, and its taste is exceptional! It’s gaining attention, especially on social media. It’s on a different level compared to typical fast-food places.
There are many drinks to choose from. Cans and bottles are displayed along the wall as samples, and you can select the type you want. It’s exciting with so many options! I ordered a ginger ale.
Why is he called an “alien”?
According to the owner, Mr. Wakamura, of the Ropponmatsu branch, he used to come to eat Mr. Imazaki’s hot dogs with his grandfather when he was a child. During those times, Mr. Imazaki would tell the children, “I’m an alien, you know. At night, I return to the stars in this spaceship,” making the children laugh. Since then, Mr. Imazaki has been nicknamed an “alien,” becoming a catchy phrase for Imaya’s hamburgers.
Menu
Here is the menu for the Ropponmatsu store. When dining in, a one-drink order is required. The prices for hamburgers are lower at the Nishikoen main store than at the Ropponmatsu store.
Bicycle Access to Ropponmatsu Store
There is a bicycle parking lot directly across the road. Alternatively, there is ample space on the sidewalk in front of the store for bicycle parking.
The location of Imaya’s Hamburger Ropponmatsu Store is
| Name | Imaya’s Hamburger Ropponmatsu Store |
| Access | 3-minute walk from Ropponmatsu Station (Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line) |
| Hours | 11:00–15:00 / 17:00–23:00 *Closes when sold out |
| TEL | 070-8484-8364 |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Dining Options | Dine-in → 〇 Takeout → 〇 Delivery → 〇 |
Final Thoughts
The manager of the Ropponmatsu branch is called “Manager Jackson.” When I asked why, he said it’s because his real name, Wakakura (若村), sounds like “Jackson” when pronounced in a different way in Japanese. That kind of humor—I love it!
I’ve tried visiting the main store at Nishi Park a few times, but it was always sold out or had a long line… It seems like you need real determination to get their famous burger. According to Manager Jackson, lining up around 9:30 AM should be safe. (The store opens at 11 AM, by the way! 😂) Next time, I’ll try that strategy and finally get my revenge at the main store!
