However well prepared you might be for your trip, sometimes you do run out of books, especially if you are on a long trip. English books can be hard to find in China, but not impossible. This is a list of the most popular English language bookstores in Beijing.
1. The Bookworm Beijing
Perfect for those who want to read up on China, or are in need of more travel reading material, the Bookworm is a cafe, bar, bookshop, and also hosts events like interesting film screenings and talks. The food there is good, and the selection of books is also great, with a whole section aimed at fiction and non-fiction books about China.
If you didn't manage to check out our list of books to read before going to China, most of the books on that list will be available at the Bookworm. Once a year, the Bookworm also holds a literature fest. For more information on events, check out their website. The Bookworm is a buzzing gathering place for tourists and expats who want to learn more about China during their stay here. The Bookworm also has locations in Chengdu and Suzhou.
- Address: Building 4, Nansanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District
- Telephone: 010 6586 9507
2. Wangfujing Foreign Language Bookstore
If you are looking for fiction books, and are tired of the typical English language fiction 'classics' you find throughout all of Asia, Wangfujing's Foreign Language Bookstore is a great option.
It stocks a wide range of stuff and caters mainly to tourists; locally published foreign books, imported foreign books, a wide range of Chinese and International TV and Film, a tea shop, other various souvenirs, and a huge selection of Mandarin learning materials if you are planning to pick up some Chinese while in China. Perfectly combined with a trip to Wangfujing, Beijing's famous shopping street.
- Address: 235 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District
- Telephone: 010 6512 6903
3. Page One
Page OnePage One is a popular bookstore chain throughout the world, and its location in Sanlitun also does not disappoint. Good range of imported books, in many different categories. Although prices are higher, the store makes for a good visit: friendly and helpful staff and a calm environment.
Page One has only been open for a few years but is very popular with foreigners living in Beijing. Sanlitun is also popular for shopping, as it is filled with international and local brands.
- Address: Building 2, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District
- Telephone: 010 6417 6626
4. Xidan Books Building
Another great option for books in the city is Xidan Books Building, located in the West of the city. Mainly known for wide ranges of cookbooks, art books, as well as titles on architecture and design, Xidan Books Building also has a good range of English fiction books, although mainly published locally rather than imported. English books are found in the basement of the building.
- Address: 17C Xichang'an Jie, Xicheng District
- Telephone: 010 6607 8477
Your Tour
If you want to include one of these bookstores in your trips, or if you have read a book about China and are keen to visit the location the book was set in, please let us know when you are creating your trip by clicking here.