The recent horrific department store fire in Davao City, Philippines reminded me of the Taiyo Department Store fire, which occurred in Kumamoto on November 29, 1973 and led to major reforms across Japan for large buildings where public gatherings are held regarding exits and internal extinguishing equipment.
Taiyo Department Store was on Shimotori; the site later became a Daiei franchise; the building was demolished two years ago to become the current Cocosa. The fire broke out on the second floor, quickly trapping those above in the 13-story building. 103 were killed and over a hundred injured. A monument exists on Shirakawa across from Shimotori for the tragedy, where a ceremony is still conducted each year. - William