Historic 'Eternal Flame' Rescued After Fire at Japan's Reikado Hall

A fire occurred on May 20 at Reikado Hall on Japan's Miyajima Island, a site revered for its historical and religious significance. The hall housed an 'eternal flame,' which Buddhist tradition states has burned continuously for over 1200 years, originally lit by the monk Kūkai, founder of the Shingon school. Although the sanctuary's structure was consumed by the blaze, the ancient flame itself was successfully preserved and relocated to a new, safe place. This incident represents the second time this particular sanctuary has experienced a destructive fire. Sources: Suspilne Novyny