Great Fire of Meireki: A fire in Edo (now Tokyo), Japan, caused more than 100,000 deaths; it lasted three days

The mid-17th century was a tumultuous time in Japan, and few events left a more indelible mark on its capital than the devastating inferno that became known as the Great Fire of Meireki (明暦の大火, *Meireki no taika*). Often chillingly referred to as the Furisode Fire, this catastrophic blaze swept through Edo, the sprawling predecessor to modern Tokyo, on March 2, 1657. It wasn't just a fire; it was an urban apocalypse that, over the course of three relentless days, consumed an estimated 60–70% of the city, leaving widespread destruction and an unfathomable human toll. This tragic event, occurring in the third year of the Meireki Imperial era, is believed to have claimed the lives of over 100,000 people, forever altering the landscape and future development of one of the world’s largest cities.

The Fury of the Furisode Fire

The Great Fire of Meireki wasn't merely a large blaze; it was a conflagration of epic proportions, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds that whipped the flames across the densely packed wooden structures of Edo. Its alternative name, the "Furisode Fire," carries a poignant story often associated with its origins. Legend has it that the fire began when a priest attempted to incinerate a seemingly "cursed" *furisode* kimono – a traditional long-sleeved garment – that had been worn by three young girls who all tragically died shortly after wearing it. As the kimono burned, a gust of wind reportedly carried a spark, igniting the nearby temple and setting off a chain reaction that would engulf the city. While the exact spark remains debated by historians, the impact certainly is not.

Beginning on March 2, 1657, the fire raged for three consecutive days, a relentless force that overwhelmed any attempts at containment. The Edo period’s architecture, predominantly wood and paper, offered little resistance. The initial fire quickly spread, aided by powerful gales that essentially turned the city into a tinderbox. Entire districts vanished, replaced by scorched earth and ash. The sheer scale of destruction was unprecedented for its time, with estimates suggesting that more than two-thirds of the capital was reduced to rubble.

Devastation and Resilience: Rebuilding Edo

The aftermath of the Great Fire of Meireki was a scene of utter devastation. Beyond the horrific loss of life – exceeding 100,000, a number that would make it one of the deadliest fires in human history – the economic and social fabric of Edo was ripped apart. Homes, businesses, public buildings, and numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Edo Castle, were either severely damaged or completely destroyed. The city, which was a bustling center of commerce and culture, faced an existential crisis.

However, the fire also inadvertently spurred a massive urban planning and rebuilding effort that would shape Tokyo for centuries. The Tokugawa shogunate, then at the height of its power, initiated extensive reconstruction. Lessons learned from the fire led to significant changes in urban design, including the creation of wider streets and more open spaces to act as firebreaks. The city’s infrastructure was meticulously redesigned to be more resilient against future disasters, a testament to the Japanese spirit of perseverance and adaptation. This period of intense rebuilding showcased the remarkable organizational capabilities of the shogunate and the unwavering resolve of Edo’s populace to reclaim and rebuild their capital.

FAQs: Understanding the Great Fire of Meireki

What was the Great Fire of Meireki?
The Great Fire of Meireki was a catastrophic blaze that destroyed a vast portion of Edo (modern-day Tokyo), the capital city of Japan, in March 1657. It is also known as the Furisode Fire.
When did the Great Fire of Meireki occur?
The fire began on March 2, 1657, and continued for three days.
How much of Edo was destroyed by the fire?
It is estimated that 60–70% of the city was destroyed, making it one of the most devastating urban fires in history.
How many people died in the Great Fire of Meireki?
Tragically, over 100,000 people are estimated to have lost their lives in the inferno.
Why is it also called the Furisode Fire?
The name "Furisode Fire" comes from a popular legend suggesting the fire originated from a spark that flew during the burning of a supposedly cursed *furisode* kimono.
What was the long-term impact of the fire on Edo?
The fire led to extensive rebuilding efforts and significant urban planning changes, including the creation of wider streets and firebreaks, which reshaped the city's layout and improved its resilience against future fires. It was a pivotal event in the history of Edo and later Tokyo.