Sairin-ji Fire

Description

On August 18, 2026, a fire burned the main hall and residence of Sairin-ji, a Soto Zen temple in the Kase area of Saga City, founded in 1615. The fire was reported around 10:30–10:40 a.m. It was largely suppressed about one hour later. The priest, in his 70s, and his wife evacuated safely. About 207 children at a nearby certified childcare center were moved to a building farther from the fire; no injuries were reported. Police said the priest told them he had been burning dry grass on the temple grounds. Police and fire authorities are investigating whether the fire spread from that burning.