Best Bookstores & Libraries in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China, Shanghai, Culture & Entertainment, Best Bookstores & Libraries

Best Bookstores & Libraries in Shanghai, China

Shanghai Library

1. Shanghai Library

As the largest public library in Shanghai, this place offers extensive research resources and an impressive architecture that feels both modern and historic at the same time. It tackles the challenge of finding comprehensive information with its vast collection of books and digital resources.
  • Extensive Collection: Houses millions of books and digital resources.
  • Architectural Design: Modern design integrates well with historic touches.
  • Accessibility: Centrally located with good transport links.
  • Research Facilities: Designed for in-depth academic research.
  • Events and Exhibitions: Regularly hosts cultural and educational events.
Fuzhou Road Bookstore Street

2. Fuzhou Road Bookstore Street

A unique street lined with a variety of bookstores selling everything from rare Chinese texts to foreign bestsellers, offering a one-stop solution for book lovers. It solves the problem of limited selection by providing numerous shops in one location.
  • Variety of Shops: Offers multiple bookstores with diverse selections.
  • Speciality Stores: Includes shops specializing in rare and antique books.
  • Central Location: Easily accessible in the heart of the city.
  • Bargain Opportunities: Potential for finding great deals.
  • Cultural Experience: Immerses visitors in local book culture.
Garden Books

3. Garden Books

Known for its extensive selection of English books, this cozy bookstore is a favorite among expatriates and travelers. It solves the challenge of finding English reading material in Shanghai.
  • English Selection: Specializes in books written in English.
  • Cozy Atmosphere: Offers a welcoming, comfortable environment.
  • Customer Service: Staff well-versed in English and very helpful.
  • Location: Conveniently located for tourists and expats.
  • Community Hub: Hosts events and book clubs regularly.
Jifeng Bookstore

4. Jifeng Bookstore

Famous for its 24/7 hours, this store provides book lovers unrestricted access to a wide range of titles any time of day, solving the issue of limited operating hours.
  • 24/7 Operation: Open around the clock for convenience.
  • Wide Range: Broad selection of genres and authors.
  • Prime Location: Located at a busy subway station.
  • Local and Foreign Titles: Stocks both Chinese and international books.
  • Reading Spaces: Offers comfortable spots to read inside.
The Mix Place

5. The Mix Place

Part bookstore, part café, and part creative space, this venue caters to those who want to enjoy good books with a great cup of coffee, addressing the demand for a relaxed multi-use environment.
  • Multi-purpose Venue: Combines bookstore, café, and creative space.
  • Contemporary Design: Modern aesthetic with artistic flourishes.
  • Community Events: Frequently hosts workshops and events.
  • Café Quality: Offers a variety of coffee and snacks.
  • Urban Retreat: Provides a peaceful escape from city bustle.
Uncle Lu’s Book Café

6. Uncle Lu’s Book Café

A cozy and quiet café-bookstore hybrid that focuses on creating a calm reading environment, perfect for those seeking relaxation with a good book. It addresses the need for tranquil and distraction-free reading spaces.
  • Calm Atmosphere: Designed for quiet, uninterrupted reading.
  • Cozy Vibe: Warm and inviting interior.
  • Specialty Drinks: Offers unique coffee blends and teas.
  • Location: Positioned away from noisy streets.
  • Tailored Selection: Carefully curated book selection.
Boocoo Bookroom

7. Boocoo Bookroom

Known for its curated selection of arts and philosophy books, this bookstore attracts those with niche interests. It focuses on providing specialized content not easily found elsewhere.
  • Niche Focus: Emphasizes art and philosophy sectors.
  • Curated Selection: Carefully chosen books with a focus on quality.
  • Art Gallery Vibes: Interior is artistically inspiring.
  • Knowledgeable Staff: Staff can provide expert recommendations.
  • Artistic Events: Regular exhibitions and philosophical discussions.
Wanlin Bookstore

8. Wanlin Bookstore

This place is known for supporting independent publishers and local authors, offering a platform for lesser-known voices.
  • Independent Focus: Supports self-published and local authors.
  • Unique Selections: Features books not seen in chain stores.
  • Cultural Preservation: Emphasizes Shanghai's literary heritage.
  • Personal Connection: Engages directly with customer community.
  • Special Events: Hosts meet-and-greets with authors.
Zhongshuge Bookstore

9. Zhongshuge Bookstore

Famed for its mind-bending architectural design and immersive aesthetics, this bookstore is an attraction on its own. It solves the challenge of engaging readers with its innovative layout.
  • Architectural Marvel: Unique, visually stunning design.
  • Immersive Experience: Creates an enchanting reading environment.
  • Photogenic Interiors: A mecca for photography enthusiasts.
  • Extensive Collection: Stocks a broad range of genres.
  • Inspirational Setting: Known for sparking creativity.
Foreign Languages Bookstore

10. Foreign Languages Bookstore

Offers a vast selection of international publications in various languages, catering to the expatriate and international traveler community. It addresses the need for diverse linguistic resources.
  • Language Variety: Stocks books in multiple foreign languages.
  • International Bestsellers: Offers well-known global titles.
  • Expat Friendly: Tailored to the international community.
  • Centrally Located: Easily accessible downtown position.
  • Multicultural Events: Hosts language exchange and cultural gatherings.
Da Yin Bookstore

11. Da Yin Bookstore

Known for its comprehensive collection on traditional Chinese culture and literature, perfect for those interested in delving into local cultural stories. It solves the challenge of accessing rich Chinese literary resources.
  • Cultural Focus: Emphasizes books on Chinese traditions.
  • Extensive Chinese Literature: Large collection of Chinese authors.
  • Cultural Workshops: Hosts workshops on traditional crafts.
  • Expert Guidance: Staff knowledgeable in Chinese culture.
  • Heritage Promotion: Actively engages in cultural preservation.
Rong Chang Bookstore

12. Rong Chang Bookstore

This bookstore comes with a wide variety of educational materials for children and teenagers, making it a go-to spot for families. It meets the need for educational and engaging content for younger audiences.
  • Family Friendly: Wide range of children’s and young adult books.
  • Educational Focus: Emphasis on learning materials.
  • Interactive Activities: Hosts storytelling and learning sessions.
  • Cozy Corners: Designed reading spaces for kids.
  • Stimulating Designs: Bright, colorful, and inviting atmosphere.
Art Book Centre

13. Art Book Centre

As its name suggests, this bookstore specializes in arts, design, and architecture books, appealing to creative professionals and enthusiasts. It solves the challenge of finding niche art resources in a general market.
  • Artistic Collection: Specializes in art-related publications.
  • Creative Hub: Attracts artists and designers.
  • Expert Curation: Critically acclaimed book selection.
  • Industry Events: Hosts talks and exhibits from artists.
  • Tranquil Space: Provides a serene environment for exploration.
The Himalayan Bookstore

14. The Himalayan Bookstore

Known for its serene atmosphere and emphasis on books about spirituality and philosophy, it's ideal for those seeking inner peace literature. It offers a quiet refuge amidst Shanghai's hustle.
  • Spiritual Focus: Emphasizes philosophy and spirituality books.
  • Serene Atmosphere: Peaceful and calming interior.
  • Guided Recommendations: Experts in esoteric fields available.
  • Quiet Spaces: Ideal spot for meditative reading.
  • Spiritual Workshops: Occasional mindfulness and meditation events.
Librairie Avant-Garde

15. Librairie Avant-Garde

This chain bookstore's Shanghai location offers avant-garde literature and concepts alongside standard genres to cater to creative minds. It addresses the challenge of finding thought-provoking content.
  • Experimental Focus: Highlights avant-garde literature.
  • Diverse Selection: Offers traditional to avant-garde genres.
  • Inspiring Environment: Designed to inspire through surroundings.
  • Creative Gatherings: Hosts literary events and discussions.
  • Location Accessibility: Situated in a well-trafficked area.
Sanlian Taofen Bookstore

16. Sanlian Taofen Bookstore

This storied bookstore is part of a historic chain known for promoting literature and culture for decades, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's intellectual past.
  • Historical Significance: Part of a long-standing cultural institution.
  • Literary Legacy: Rich selection of literature with historical ties.
  • Scholarly Environment: A place for intellectual engagement.
  • Central Location: Easy access for residents and tourists.
  • Vibrant Programs: Hosts a variety of culturally significant events.
Yue Gu Zhai Bookstore

17. Yue Gu Zhai Bookstore

Known for its antique books and maps, this store is a treasure trove for collectors and history buffs. It addresses the scarcity of historical documents and collectibles.
  • Antique Focus: Specializes in rare and antique collections.
  • Collectors' Paradise: Offers unique historical items.
  • Expertly Curated: Knowledgeable staff guide selections.
  • Historical Value: Stocks items with significant historical worth.
  • Unique Finds: Regularly receives new and rare acquisitions.
The Phoenix Bookstore

18. The Phoenix Bookstore

Centered on promoting Chinese literature and emerging writers, this store features a vast selection of books that are hard to find elsewhere.
  • Emphasis on Chinese Literature: Showcases national literature.
  • Emerging Authors: Focus on new Chinese writing talent.
  • Literary Events: Book signings and author talks.
  • Cultural Promotion: Advocates for local literary culture.
  • Centrally Located: Easily reached from city landmarks.
Bookuu Books

19. Bookuu Books

Offers a modern and sleek atmosphere with a wide range of contemporary titles, appealing to modern readers looking for up-to-date selections. It meets the demands of staying current with worldwide releases.
  • Modern Design: Chic and contemporary ambiance.
  • Current Titles: Stays updated with new releases.
  • Cultural Blend: Stocks a mix of international and local books.
  • Reader Workshops: Offers classes and reading groups.
  • Trendy Spot: Attracts younger audiences interested in trends.
The Bookmall

20. The Bookmall

This massive retail space combines multiple floors of books with areas for reading, games, and activities, serving as an entertainment complex for families. It addresses the need for both educational and entertainment spaces.
  • Massive Collection: Extensive multi-floor book sections.
  • Entertainment Zones: Features games and family activities.
  • Social Spot: Encourages social interaction through spaces.
  • Community Events: Regularly hosts public gatherings.
  • Family Focus: Designed with families in mind.