• Source:JND

A massive blaze has destroyed the Reikado Hall of Miyajima Island in the city of Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. The age-old structure was reduced to ashes, reigniting concerns over the safety of Japan's religious landmarks. The fire had spread through the hall and nearby trees before the firefighters brought it under control. No casualties were reported.

The destroyed hall housed a sacred “eternal flame,” also popularly known as the “unquenchable fire,” which temple tradition says has burned continuously for more than 1,200 years. According to tradition, the flame was first lit in 806 by Buddhist monk Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi, during ascetic training on Mount Misen.

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Significance Of Eternal Flame

According to the temple authorities, the traditional flame survived, as it was preserved separately from the structure before the fire. The “eternal flame” has a deep spiritual and national significance in Japan. Part of the flame earlier had been used to ignite the “Flame of Peace” at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, linking the site to Hiroshima’s post-war peace identity and remembrance efforts following World War II.

The reduction has once again renewed debate over the vulnerability of Japan's traditional wooden architecture, much of which remains exposed to fire, earthquakes, and typhoons despite modern disaster prevention systems.

The hall itself had previously burned down in 2005 before being rebuilt in 2006, underscoring the repeated threats faced by historic structures across the country.

Probe Underway

Authorities are now investigating whether the sacred flame or related equipment may have contributed to the latest fire.

Japan is a home to thousands of ancient temples and shrines, largely constructed of wood using traditional techniques. Experts have long warned that attempts to keep these sites, which are vital to the nation's cultural identity and tourism industry, historically accurate can complicate modern fireproofing efforts.

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The recent fire has once again underlined the challenge of balancing heritage preservation with disaster safety at some of Japan’s most treasured religious landmarks. 

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