Fire engulfs buildings in Hakodate city center, department store closes

A fire broke out in central Hakodate's tourist district in Hokkaido on Tuesday afternoon, continuing to burn into the evening with no injuries reported but prompting a department store to close early as a precaution.

The blaze started around 2pm in a real estate company office before spreading to neighboring buildings. Firefighters dispatched at least 10 fire trucks and numerous personnel to combat the flames.

Located in the city's commercial and tourist hub, the fire has damaged several shops. Businesses including a department store closed early to protect visitors from potential danger as firefighting operations continue.