Battery fire risk became a central concern in Kyoto on Tuesday night after a portable charger ignited inside a hotel room, forcing the evacuation of 120 guests. The incident highlighted ongoing safety issues related to lithium-ion batteries, which continue causing fires across Japan. Authorities stressed that the battery fire risk requires renewed attention as similar cases rise nationwide.
Emergency responders received a report around 8:30 p.m. regarding flames in a room on the fourth floor of a 10-story hotel located west of Kyoto City Hall. The property, operated under the Four Points Flex by Sheraton brand, immediately activated evacuation procedures. Staff worked with firefighters to clear guests from multiple floors while responders assessed the situation.
A hotel employee in her twenties was taken to a hospital after inhaling smoke during the response. Medical personnel later confirmed her condition was not life-threatening. Meanwhile, fire crews inspected the affected room to confirm that no further hazards remained. The battery fire risk prompted teams to examine surrounding areas for heat damage or lingering smoke.
Investigators said the fire started while a guest in her thirties from China charged her digital camera using a portable power bank. The device ignited suddenly, surprising the guest and filling the room with smoke. Although she attempted to extinguish the flames with water, the fire continued spreading across nearby items. A hotel staff member used a fire extinguisher, bringing the situation under control before firefighters arrived.
Local officials noted that Kyoto recently saw another battery-related fire in early October. That earlier case forced the temporary evacuation of a hotel near JR Kyoto Station. Fire authorities later determined that the blaze appeared linked to another portable charger. These repeated incidents pushed leaders to reevaluate existing guidance on consumer electronics and safe charging practices.
Government data released this autumn documented 2,350 accidents involving lithium-ion batteries over five years. Analysts noted that portable batteries accounted for roughly 300 of those cases. Regulators have urged manufacturers to strengthen safety standards while encouraging consumers to avoid overcharging and use certified devices. The battery fire risk remains a growing area of policy attention as usage of rechargeable electronics continues rising.
Hotel management pledged to enhance guest safety protocols following the latest incident. Leaders said they would review internal training, update emergency procedures, and share additional information with visitors about potential charging hazards. Fire officials added that further inspections would determine whether the hotel required additional fire-prevention equipment or signage.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation will continue through the week as analysts study the device and interview witnesses. They expect to release updated findings once technical evaluations conclude. The battery fire risk will remain a central theme in those discussions because officials aim to reduce similar incidents across Japan’s hospitality sector.
