Kyoto Kodai-ji Temple sub-temple Gessho-in fire controlled, no casualties reported

A fire erupted at Gessho-in, a sub-temple of the historic Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, on the evening of August 3, 2026. Thick black smoke was observed billowing from the area, prompting multiple reports to the Kyoto City Fire Department.

Firefighters were dispatched to the scene and engaged in extinguishing the blaze at Gessho-in, which is located near the popular tourist spot "Ninenzaka." The fire reportedly broke out around 6:30 PM local time. By 7:12 PM, the fire department confirmed that the fire had been brought under control.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. The fire appears to have been contained to the Gessho-in structure itself. Eyewitnesses, including shopkeepers in the vicinity, expressed shock at the sudden and intense flames, with one noting how high the fire reached.

Gessho-in belongs to the Rinzai school of Buddhism, specifically the Kennin-ji branch. It is known for its historical connections, including a period when figures associated with the Shinsengumi, a special police force from the late Edo period, were stationed there. The sub-temple is situated along the "Ninenzaka" path, a popular route for tourists visiting the area, which also houses several national historic sites and important cultural properties within the broader Kodai-ji Temple complex.

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Suddenly a big fire broke out, I was startled. Because the fire rose very high, I felt very scared.