Paper Dome
A temporary church of paper tubes, designed by Shigeru Ban to serve Takatori Catholic Church after Japan’s Great Hanshin earthquake, later relocated and reconstructed in Taiwan following the 1999 921 earthquake.
At a glance
The Paper Dome is a striking example of disaster-responsive architecture. Built from paper-tube structural elements, the building demonstrates both ingenuity and adaptability in meeting urgent community needs after seismic catastrophe.
History
Constructed on September 17, 1995, the Paper Dome was designed pro-bono by renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban to provide a temporary church for Takatori Catholic Church in the wake of the Great Hanshin earthquake. Beyond religious services, the structure became a communal gathering place for the affected community. When the church community decided to build a permanent structure, the Paper Dome was donated to Taomi Village in Puli Township, Nantou County, Taiwan—a region devastated by the 1999 921 earthquake. The deconstructed building was shipped to Taiwan in 2006 and reconstructed there, where it now operates as a museum and tourist attraction.
What you see
The Paper Dome employs paper tubes as primary structural elements, a material choice that reflects Ban’s pioneering work in sustainable and emergency architecture. The design proves both elegant and functional, creating an open interior suited to multiple uses while remaining visually distinctive.
Cultural significance
The Paper Dome embodies the principle of humanitarian design responding to natural disaster. Its journey from Japan to Taiwan illustrates international solidarity in rebuilding communities. The structure stands as a testament to how temporary solutions can become lasting cultural landmarks and symbols of resilience.
Key facts
- Country: Taiwan (relocated from Japan in 2006)
- Location: Taomi Village, Puli Township, Nantou County
- Coordinates: 23.9414, 120.9271
- Designer: Shigeru Ban (pro-bono)
- Original construction: September 17, 1995
- Primary material: Paper tubes
Practical information & getting there
The Paper Dome is located in Taomi Village near Puli in central Taiwan. It functions as a museum and visitor attraction. Contact local tourism offices in Nantou County for current hours, admission information, and detailed directions.
Sources & resources
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