Beijing
๐
Bookstores and Cultural Spaces
Sections
1. Bookstores in Beijing
a. Page One (ไธ่้ฌๅฅไนฆๅบ)
- Location: Sanlitun Taikoo Li, Chaoyang District
- Unique Features:
- A modern, international bookstore with a sleek design and a wide selection of books in English and Chinese.
- Specializes in art, design, architecture, and photography books, making it a favorite among creatives.
- Offers a cozy reading environment with a cafรฉ inside.
- Pricing: Books are priced similarly to international standards, with imported books being more expensive (around 100โ300 RMB for English titles).
- Accessibility: Located in the trendy Sanlitun area, it is easily accessible by subway (Line 10, Tuanjiehu Station) and bus. The store is wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Sanlitun is a hub for expats and young locals, so this bookstore is a great place to meet like-minded people or attend book launches and cultural events.
b. The Bookworm (่ไนฆ่ซ)
- Location: Sanlitun, Chaoyang District
- Unique Features:
- A legendary English-language bookstore, cafรฉ, and cultural space.
- Hosts regular events such as book talks, poetry readings, and film screenings.
- A great selection of second-hand books, making it budget-friendly.
- Pricing: Second-hand books start at 30 RMB, while new books range from 80โ200 RMB.
- Accessibility: Centrally located in Sanlitun, it is easy to reach by public transport. The space is cozy but may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: The Bookworm is a hub for Beijingโs international community. Check their event calendar for opportunities to engage with local and global authors.
c. Zhongshuge Bookstore (้ไนฆ้)
- Location: Galeries Lafayette Mall, Xidan, Xicheng District
- Unique Features:
- Known for its stunning interior design, featuring mirrored ceilings and creative book displays.
- Offers a mix of Chinese and international books, with a focus on literature, childrenโs books, and lifestyle topics.
- A popular spot for photography due to its Instagram-worthy design.
- Pricing: Books are moderately priced, with most titles ranging from 50โ200 RMB.
- Accessibility: Located in a shopping mall, it is easily accessible by subway (Line 1, Xidan Station). The store is wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, as it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
d. Sanlian Taofen Bookstore (ไธ่้ฌๅฅไนฆๅบ)
- Location: Dongcheng District, near Wangfujing
- Unique Features:
- One of Beijingโs oldest and most respected bookstores, known for its intellectual and academic focus.
- Open 24 hours, making it a haven for night owls and students.
- Offers a wide range of books on Chinese history, philosophy, and culture, as well as international literature.
- Pricing: Books are reasonably priced, with most titles ranging from 50โ150 RMB.
- Accessibility: Located near Wangfujing, it is easily accessible by subway (Line 5, Dengshikou Station). The store is wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: This bookstore is a great place to immerse yourself in Chinese intellectual culture. Donโt hesitate to ask staff for recommendations on books about Chinese history or philosophy.
2. Cultural Spaces in Beijing
a. 798 Art District (798่บๆฏๅบ)
- Location: Dashanzi, Chaoyang District
- Unique Features:
- A sprawling complex of contemporary art galleries, studios, and cultural spaces housed in a former industrial area.
- Features exhibitions, installations, and performances by both Chinese and international artists.
- Home to boutique bookstores, art shops, and cafรฉs.
- Pricing: Entry to the district is free, but some galleries charge a small fee (20โ50 RMB).
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by subway (Line 14, Wangjing South Station) and bus. The area is mostly wheelchair accessible, though some galleries may have stairs.
- Cultural Tip: Plan to spend at least half a day exploring. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the districtโs unique blend of industrial and artistic aesthetics.
b. National Centre for the Performing Arts (ๅฝๅฎถๅคงๅง้ข)
- Location: Xicheng District, near Tiananmen Square
- Unique Features:
- A stunning architectural landmark, nicknamed โThe Eggโ for its futuristic design.
- Hosts world-class performances, including opera, ballet, theater, and concerts.
- Features an art gallery and a bookstore focused on performing arts.
- Pricing: Tickets for performances range from 100โ1,000 RMB, depending on the event. Entry to the building and exhibitions is free or costs a nominal fee (30โ50 RMB).
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by subway (Line 1, Tiananmen West Station). The venue is fully wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Check the schedule in advance and book tickets online, as popular performances sell out quickly. Dress formally if attending an evening performance.
c. UCCA Center for Contemporary Art (ๅฐคไผฆๆฏๅฝไปฃ่บๆฏไธญๅฟ)
- Location: 798 Art District, Chaoyang District
- Unique Features:
- One of Chinaโs leading contemporary art institutions, showcasing cutting-edge works by Chinese and international artists.
- Hosts workshops, film screenings, and talks.
- Features a well-curated bookstore and gift shop.
- Pricing: General admission is 60 RMB, with discounts for students and seniors.
- Accessibility: Located within the 798 Art District, it is wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibitions.
d. Shijia Hutong Museum (ๅฒๅฎถ่กๅๅ็ฉ้ฆ)
- Location: Dongcheng District
- Unique Features:
- A small museum dedicated to the history and culture of Beijingโs traditional hutongs (narrow alleyways).
- Offers a glimpse into local life through exhibits on architecture, family life, and community traditions.
- Includes a reading room with books on Beijingโs history and culture.
- Pricing: Free entry.
- Accessibility: Located in a hutong, the museum may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
- Cultural Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding hutongs to experience the charm of old Beijing.
3. Cultural and Local Tips
- Language: While many bookstores and cultural spaces cater to English speakers, having a translation app or basic knowledge of Mandarin can enhance your experience.
- Timing: Weekdays and mornings are the best times to visit to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Zhongshuge and 798 Art District.
- Events: Many bookstores and cultural spaces host events such as book signings, lectures, and workshops. Check their websites or social media for schedules.
- Etiquette: Be respectful of the quiet atmosphere in bookstores and cultural spaces. Photography may be restricted in some areas, so always ask for permission.
By exploring these bookstores and cultural spaces, youโll gain a deeper appreciation for Beijingโs rich intellectual and artistic heritage. Whether youโre a book lover, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about Chinese culture, these destinations offer something for everyone.