OTSU -- Hieizan Enryakuji in Otsu will livestream its eternal flame 24-7 starting Monday.
The flame, called Fumetsu no Hoto (Flame of immortality), is believed to have been lit in 788 by Dengyo Daishi Saicho, the founder of the Tendaishu Buddhist sect. Enshrined inside a lantern placed at the inner sanctuary of the Konpon Chu-do hall at the complex, worshippers usually cannot get a glimpse of this flame as the area is off-limits.
The livestream will be available on Enryakuji's website for the time being as a bid to comfort people who are facing various challenges amid the new coronavirus epidemic. A camera near the lantern will allow viewers to see how the flame flickers within the lantern's openwork.
"This flame is a symbol of the teaching of Saicho, who wished for people's happiness," said Kakushun Kogamo, a senior official at Enryakuji. "We hope that all who are facing hardships because of the coronavirus will regain their brightness."
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