Tree Fire Memorial Paper Museum

How heavy do you think a bamboo screen used in papermaking could be? You might be surprised to learn that at the Tree Fire Memorial Paper Museum, you’ll get to see firsthand how much these screens weigh. Not only that, this unassuming four-story building nestled on Changan Road Section 2 in Taipei houses a treasure trove of paper-related wonders. The Tree Fire Memorial Paper Museum is a testament to the dream of Chen Su-ho, a man who dedicated his life to the art of papermaking. He envisioned a space where people could understand its significance in human civilization, but sadly, he perished in a plane crash before seeing it come to fruition. His daughter, Chen Ruey-huey, took up his mantle, and in 1995, the Tree Fire Memorial Paper Museum opened its doors. Inside the museum, you’ll find a captivating journey through the history of paper, from its invention to its impact on art and culture. You’ll get to witness live demonstrations of traditional papermaking techniques using old-fashioned wooden frames and bamboo screens. It’s a fascinating process that involves dipping the screen into a pulp vat, creating a thin layer of pulp that eventually transforms into a sheet of paper. One of the most intriguing exhibits is on the third floor, where children, and adults too, can participate in interactive experiments. Imagine using a microscope to observe the difference between handmade and machine-made paper or testing the strength of various paper types. The Tree Fire Memorial Paper Museum is more than just a museum; it’s an immersive experience that brings the world of paper to life.