More About Japan 
During my recent visit to Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, I couldn’t resist trying the city’s signature dish: the Sasebo Burger.
I discovered the “Sasebo Burger MAP,” which introduces officially recognized burger shops, easily identified by a signboard featuring a character designed by Takashi Yanase, the creator of Anpanman.
Among the many tempting choices, I decided on a place called “Hikari Hamburger Shop,” which caught my attention after seeing it featured on Twitter by Mitsurou Kubo, a manga artist from Sasebo known for “Moteki.”
While Sasebo Burgers are often associated with oversized American portions, the burgers at Hikari are a more modest size. Still, with its combination of bacon, cheese, egg, patty, and a special sauce, it was absolutely delicious!
Hikari: A Legendary Sasebo Burger Shop
Hikari Hamburger Shop is conveniently located near the Sasebo Chuo IC and about a 15-minute walk from Matsuura Railway’s Sasebo Chuo Station. Right next door is another famous Sasebo Burger shop, “LOG KIT.”
The shop proudly displays the certification mark of the “Sasebo Burger Boy.”
Hikari is one of the oldest Sasebo Burger establishments, operating since 1951 (Showa Year 26). The origin of the Sasebo Burger itself remains unclear, but this shop is undoubtedly a pioneer.
With just seven counter seats, the shop is small, and many customers opt for takeout. Although long waits are common during tourist seasons, I visited early on a weekday and was seated right away.
The walls inside are adorned with autographs and articles.
The Famous “Special Burger” – A Perfect Harmony of Ingredients
Despite its American heritage, the burgers here are more standard in size and pricing, slightly higher than fast-food chains.
I ordered the “Special Burger,” which includes everything.
Each burger is handmade from freshly minced meat, so there’s a short wait. Here’s the Special Burger—a compact size but with impressive thickness!
The burger features lettuce, tomato, onion, bacon, thick cheese, an egg, and a small but densely packed patty.
While it might appear large in photos, the burger compresses easily, making it manageable even for smaller appetites. Time to dig in!
The special sauce blends perfectly with the bacon, egg, patty, and the standout ingredient: the rich, flavorful cheese. Unlike the thin, generic cheese used in chain burgers, this cheese pairs beautifully with the meat and sauce. Simply irresistible!
Hikari: A Must-Visit for Authentic Sasebo Burgers
Hikari offers a perfect balance of authentic American-style burgers and a size tailored to Japanese preferences. It’s a delicious stop you won’t want to miss.
Sasebo and its surrounding areas, including Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki City, Ureshino Onsen, and Takeo Onsen, are fantastic destinations. If you’re visiting, make sure to include Hikari on your list for a memorable Sasebo Burger experience!
