A devastating fire has destroyed the Reikado Hall, a significant structure within the Daishoin Buddhist temple complex in Japan. The hall was renowned for housing an ‘eternal flame’ that has reportedly remained lit for nearly 1,200 years. Emergency services were alerted to the blaze on Wednesday morning, and while the structure was consumed by the flames, officials confirmed the fire was successfully extinguished by Thursday.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the incident, with preliminary assessments suggesting the flame itself may have been the source of the ignition. In a fortunate turn of events, temple officials were able to secure the flame and relocate it to a safer site, ensuring its preservation despite the destruction of the building.

This is not the first time the historic site has faced such a tragedy; the Reikado Hall previously burned down in 2005. During that incident, the flame was also successfully protected, allowing the temple to continue its long-standing tradition. The Daishoin complex remains a site of deep cultural and religious significance, and efforts are expected to focus on the restoration of the hall following this latest setback.