SuHo Memorial Paper Museum, Taipei

The SuHo Memorial Paper Museum in Taipei is a unique small museum dedicated to preserving the ancient Chinese art of papermaking. Housed in a four-story building, this museum features a working handmade paper factory where visitors can witness the papermaking process in action. Additionally, the museum offers classes for those interested in learning the craft themselves. You can also explore a variety of beautifully crafted handmade paper items available for purchase at the museum's gift shop.

This museum was founded by Chen Su-Ho, the founder of Changchun Paper Co. With deep roots in the paper industry, Chen was concerned that the rich traditions of Chinese papermaking were fading into obscurity in the modern era. As a result, he conceived the idea of the Su Ho Memorial Paper Museum, which officially opened its doors in October 1995, five years after its inception.

Paper holds a significant place in China's history, being one of the country's four great inventions. For many years, it was widely believed that Cai Lun, during the Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD), was the inventor of paper. However, recent archaeological discoveries have challenged this notion, suggesting that something resembling paper existed as far back as the Western Han dynasty (206 BC-24 AD). This has sparked a lively debate about whether Cai Lun should receive sole credit for the invention of paper.

If you have an interest in delving into the origins of paper, the history of papermaking in Taiwan, and witnessing traditional papermaking techniques in action, a visit to the Su-Ho Memorial Paper Museum is a must on your itinerary.