Tourist’s Improper Candle Use Causes Major Fire at Chinese Temple - Clip Goes Viral

Tourist’s Improper Candle Use Causes Major Fire at Chinese Temple - Clip Goes Viral

A sacred Chinese temple in Jiangsu province was destroyed in a massive fire accident reportedly caused by a tourist’s improper use of candles and incense. The incident, captured on video, went viral across social media, raising concerns about temple safety, visitor responsibility, and fire management in heritage sites.

Blaze Caught on Viral Video

The fire broke out at the Wenchang Pavilion on Fenghuang Mountain. The three-storey structure, made largely of wood, was quickly engulfed in flames. The video shows the building collapsing as thick black smoke rises into the sky, drawing widespread public shock.

According to officials, the blaze erupted on November 12. A preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was triggered by a visitor’s irresponsible candle use and incorrect incense handling, leading to a fast-spreading inferno.

Fire Destroys Historic Pavilion at Yongqing Temple, Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu, China today.

A fire at Yongqing Temple on November 12 destroyed the historic Wenchang Pavilion. Other parts of the ancient temple, founded in 536 AD, were unharmed. pic.twitter.com/G0ELU8s4le

— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) November 12, 2025

Fire Contained: No Injuries Reported

Authorities confirmed that no casualties were reported. The fire department acted swiftly, preventing the flames from spreading to the surrounding forest area. Officials also stated that the pavilion, built in 2009, did not contain any ancient artefacts or historical relics.

The Wenchang Pavilion was under the administration of the nearby Yongqing Temple, which traces its origins back nearly 1,500 years to the Liang Dynasty, although its present structures were rebuilt in the 1990s.

Heritage Loss and Public Concern

The viral footage has triggered strong reactions online, with many questioning the lack of safety measures at religious and historical sites. The incident has also renewed discussions on visitor awareness, candle safety, and stricter guidelines for temple rituals involving fire.

Investigation Underway

Local authorities have launched a detailed investigation. Officials noted that further action will be taken once the inquiry is complete. Restoration work is expected to begin soon, following traditional architectural styles to preserve the cultural identity of the site.

Safety measures at the mountain and the temple complex will now be strengthened to prevent similar accidents.