Peace · Visa for Life Theme Museum

Tribute to Courage and Humanity

The Peace Visa for Life Museum was commissioned to be built in the city of Yiyang, China to commemorate the heroic efforts of Dr. Ho Feng Shan in World World II. Through his courageous actions, Dr. Ho issued thousands of visas to Jewish people, saving them from the horrors of the Holocaust. Commissioned in 2019 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of collaboration with Petah Tikva, the museum's design encapsulates this profound historical event by incorporating elements symbolic of the life-saving visas.

The museum’s architectural concept is centered around the "visa plate" design, featuring large corten steel plates that mimic the color and form of visa documents. These plates are strategically placed to create a visual impression that evolves as visitors view the structure from different angles, especially from the surrounding hiking trails. Situated in a valley between two mountains, the museum's design is intentionally open, allowing natural light to play across the overlapping plates, creating a sunshade effect and enhancing the visitor experience.

The interior of the museum is meticulously designed to evoke the emotional journey of those who sought refuge during the war. The entrance hall, with its A-shaped form, induces a sense of compression and pressure, symbolizing the oppressive conditions faced by refugees. However, the sunlight visible at the top offers a glimmer of hope, guiding visitors through the narrow entrance. As the space unfolds, the museum transitions into a "channel of life," leading visitors through a narrative journey that culminates in a sense of release and freedom as they ascend to the upper levels.

This immersive experience is designed to awaken historical empathy, encouraging visitors to reflect on the value of life and the importance of peace. The Peace · Visa for Life Theme Museum not only honors the memory of Dr. Ho Feng Shan but also serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of individual courage and humanitarianism.