Paper Dome Introduction
The modern Paper Dome is supported by 58 paper tubes, creating a geometric rectangular corridor, while the slightly translucent canopy creates a soft and sacred atmosphere. This unique Paper Dome, located in the Xin Guo Xiang Learning Park near the ecologically rich Taomi Ecological Village, is an excellent spot for summer activities such as lotus viewing, butterfly watching, or observing frog ecology. It is highly suitable for families looking to explore nature and ecology together, with guided tours available to delve into the story of the Paper Dome. (Image source: Paper Dome official website navigation map) The story of the Paper Dome began after the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake in Japan, when architect Shigeru Ban constructed a paper tube church as a temporary gathering place for the collapsed Takatori Church. Now, this Paper Dome symbolizes the significance of earthquake reconstruction and has traveled across the ocean to the Taomi community, continuing its mission of healing after disaster. Walking into the Paper Dome, visitors can marvel at the beauty of the structure, where the softness of paper has been transformed into resilience that supports the entire church. More importantly, it reflects the stronger vitality of people after experiencing disasters. The adjacent "Learning Center," made of steel, features various shapes by bending steel, contrasting the hard and cold characteristics of steel with the strength of the originally soft and fragile paper material that forms the Paper Dome. Best time for lotus viewing: approximately May to July Nighttime frog watching: April to September (reservations available) In addition to admiring the two architecturally distinct structures of the Paper Dome and the Learning Center, the park also features various butterfly-attracting plants, allowing visitors to observe butterflies dancing in every corner. The ecology ponds on either side are rich in aquatic plants, and at night, the chorus of frogs can be heard. During the summer, this place becomes a popular spot for lotus viewing, with vast fields of pink lotus flowers swaying in the breeze. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at the restaurant while taking in the beautiful scenery, making for a truly delightful experience.
