Japan Buddhist Temple Fire: A devastating fire at a historic Buddhist temple in Japan has destroyed the centuries-old Reikado Hall, while the sacred 1,200-year-old “Eternal Flame” was miraculously saved. The incident at the famous Buddhist temple on Japan’s sacred Miyajima Island has drawn global attention due to the site’s immense religious and historical significance.
Japan Buddhist Temple Fire: Destroys 1,200-Year-Old Hall
The fire broke out on the morning of May 21 near the summit of Mount Misen in Hiroshima Prefecture. According to local authorities, the wooden Reikado Hall was quickly engulfed in flames, leaving most of the historic structure reduced to ashes. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident.
Temple officials from Daisho-in Temple confirmed that the revered “Eternal Flame” was successfully rescued from the burning hall. According to Buddhist tradition, the sacred flame was originally lit by the renowned ninth-century Buddhist monk Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi. The flame is believed to have been burning continuously for more than 1,200 years.
In an official statement, temple authorities expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and sympathy messages received from around the world. They also announced plans to begin reconstruction of the destroyed hall as soon as possible.
This marks the second major fire involving Reikado Hall in recent decades. In 2005, the temple was also damaged by an accidental fire during post-typhoon cleaning operations. The structure was later rebuilt.
Local fire services said firefighters faced significant challenges due to the temple’s remote mountaintop location. Emergency crews had to extend long water hoses from the base of the mountain, and after nearly two hours of effort, the fire was finally brought under control.
Mount Misen is considered one of Japan’s most sacred religious sites. Rising approximately 535 meters above sea level, the mountain is part of Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima Island. The island holds deep spiritual importance in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions and is home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine.
In Japanese Buddhism, the “Eternal Flame” carries profound spiritual symbolism. Tradition holds that water boiled using the sacred fire brings healing and good fortune.
Authorities in Japan are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Despite the destruction of the historic worship hall, Buddhists across Japan and around the world have expressed relief and gratitude that the sacred flame survived the disaster.
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