Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
1. National Taiwan University Library
A massive academic library with a vast collection of books and resources, ideal for researchers and students.
- Extensive Collection: Houses over 6 million items, making it one of the largest libraries in Asia.
- Special Collections: Includes rare and valuable books, manuscripts, and archives.
- Accessibility: Open to the public with specific visiting hours.
2. Taipei Public Library
A modern and architecturally significant library offering a variety of books, reading rooms, and cultural events.
- Architectural Marvel: Designed by Toyo Ito, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect.
- Spacious Reading Rooms: Offers multiple quiet areas for reading and studying.
- Community Events: Hosts workshops, book clubs, and cultural events throughout the year.
3. Eslite Bookstore Xinyi
A iconic bookstore with a wide range of books, cafes, and a rooftop garden, perfect for leisurely reading and shopping.
- Unique Architecture: Features an unusual spiral staircase and a glass-bottomed reading area.
- Wide Selection of Books: Offers books in multiple languages, including English.
- Cafes and Rooftop Garden: Includes several cafes and a rooftop garden for relaxing with a book.
4. Taipei International Book Exhibition
A major international book fair showcasing the latest books and trends in publishing.
- International Exposure: Attracts publishers, authors, and book lovers from around the world.
- Latest Publications: Offers a chance to discover new books and upcoming titles.
- Events and Workshops: Features author talks, workshops, and cultural performances.
5. Taipei Literature House
A cultural center dedicated to promoting literature, writing workshops, and book events.
- Writing Workshops: Offers workshops for both beginner and advanced writers.
- Book Discussions: Hosts book clubs and discussions on various literary topics.
- Library and Reading Room: Features a library with books in multiple languages, including English.
6. Taipei Story House
A unique bookstore specializing in children's literature and storytelling activities.
- Children's Literature Focus: Has a large collection of children's books, including local Taiwanese titles.
- Storytelling Sessions: Offers regular storytelling sessions and activities for children.
- Parent-Child Bonding: Provides a space for parents and children to bond over books.
7. Taipei International Book Festival
An annual festival celebrating literature, featuring book sales, author talks, and cultural performances.
- Cultural Exchange: Brings together authors and publishers from around the world.
- Book Sales: Offers discounted books during the festival.
- Events and Workshops: Features author talks, workshops, and cultural performances.
8. Warehouse 10
An arts and culture space with a bookstore, cafes, and art exhibitions.
- Artistic Atmosphere: Features a vibrant and artistic environment.
- Bookstore and Cafes: Includes a bookstore and several cafes for relaxing with a book.
- Art Exhibitions: Hosts art exhibitions by local and international artists.
9. Roadside Attractions Library
A unique bookstore located in an old truck, offering a cozy and intimate reading experience.
- Vintage Truck Setting: Books are stored inside an old truck, giving it a unique charm.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Provides a cozy and intimate reading environment.
- Book Swap: Allows customers to swap books they've finished reading.
10. Zhongshan Hall Library
A historic library located in a beautiful building, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reading.
- Historic Architecture: Located inside a beautiful and historic building.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for reading.
- Reading Rooms: Includes several reading rooms for visitors to enjoy.
11. Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines
A museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture and history of Taiwan's indigenous peoples, including books about their literature and folklore.
- Indigenous Culture: Focuses on the culture, history, and art of Taiwan's indigenous peoples.
- Book Collection: Includes books about the literature and folklore of Taiwan's indigenous groups.
- Exhibitions and Events: Hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances related to indigenous cultures.
12. Taiwan Comics Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Taiwanese comics (Manhua), featuring a large collection of books and original artwork.
- Manhua Focus: Specializes in Taiwanese comic books (Manhua).
- Original Artwork: Includes original artwork and sketches by famous Manhua artists.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits, including hands-on activities for visitors.
13. Taipei Artist Village Bookstore
A bookstore located in a vibrant art community, offering books on art, design, and culture.
- Artistic Community: Located inside an artist village, surrounded by studios and galleries.
- Book Selection: Specializes in books on art, design, and culture.
- Artist Talks and Workshops: Hosts artist talks, workshops, and other cultural events.
14. Taiwan National Museum of Prehistory
A museum dedicated to the archaeology and history of Taiwan, featuring books about its prehistoric cultures.
- Prehistoric Focus: Specializes in the archaeology and history of Taiwan's prehistoric cultures.
- Book Collection: Includes books about Taiwan's prehistoric cultures and archaeology.
- Exhibitions and Events: Hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events related to Taiwan's prehistory.
15. Taipei Astronomical Museum Library
A museum library focused on astronomy, space exploration, and related literature.
- Astronomy Focus: Specializes in books about astronomy, space exploration, and related topics.
- Book Selection: Offers a wide variety of books on astronomy and space exploration.
- Astronomical Observatory: Includes an astronomical observatory for stargazing.