Major Fire Spreads Through Shopping District Near Ise Jingu in Central Japan

A large fire broke out this afternoon (Aug. 25) in the shopping district near Ise Jingu, one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines, located in the city of Ise, Mie Prefecture. According to local police, the flames quickly spread and engulfed multiple buildings in the area.

No official casualty figures have been released yet, while firefighters are working to bring the blaze under control. The initial cause is still under investigation.

The affected area lies within the Ise Jingu shrine complex, a destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Authorities have cordoned off the scene and urged residents to stay away from the danger zone.