Literary fanatics and bookworms, give your bookshelves a makeover by filling them with a broad range of underground comics, novels, and secondhand books from these Hong Kong bookstores.
If you’re a dedicated reader and/or a big fan of these popular Chinese authors and Japanese authors, then you’ll understand how much joy a big fat heavy hardcover book gives us. Here, we’ve put together a list of the best Hong Kong bookstores. These include chains and independent bookstores that stock a range of bestsellers, secondhand books, novels, and non-fiction, so you know where to shop books and indies for serendipity. Looking to read more? Kick-start your book habit with our big fat list of books to read.
Our favourite Hong Kong bookstores
1. Cosmos Books
If you’re wandering through Wan Chai and in the mood for a good read, Cosmos Books is your go-to spot. It’s a bookstore that has it all. Since Cosmo has a mix of English and Chinese books, with an extensive selection in social science and translations that’s tough to beat. It’s where the bookworms of Hong Kong head to get their fix. Furthermore, you’ll find shelves packed with everything from scholarly reads to the latest fiction and non-fiction. In addition, Cosmos throws regular events, like fairs and launches, to keep the place buzzing all year. With a charming and chatty community that’ll make any book lover feel right at home, it’s no wonder that Cosmo Books is a hotspot.
Cosmos Book Ltd, Basement, 30 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p. 2865 0708
2. Taschen
The world-renowned art book publisher has made quite the splash in Hong Kong’s bookstore scene. And what a thrill it is! Taschen’s first foray into Asia has seen it set up shop in the historic Tai Kwun, bringing an impressive selection of reads to the city. As expected, the store’s sleek interior is chock-full of Taschen’s arts-focused inventory, with shelves brimming with volumes on photography, design, and fashion. What’s more, you won’t miss the eye-catching coffee table books, too. Aside from gorgeous fine art volumes, you’ll also discover more affordable offerings in architecture, music, history, and children’s genres. While the limited-edition collector’s items are definite highlights, Taschen remains a space that’s accessible and inviting for the everyday reader.
Taschen, Shop 01-G02, G/F, Headquarters Block, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2544 8018
3. Books & Co
Coffee connoisseurs and book enthusiasts, take note – your perfect retreat awaits. Tucked away in Mid-Levels, you’ll find Books & Co, a snug book cafe that’s every bibliophile’s paradise. This place welcomes visitors to browse through its well-stocked shelves before snuggling up with a book and a warming brew. In this wonderfully nostalgic and vintage-styled space, you can enjoy the calm and quiet needed to immerse yourself in a fascinating read for hours on end. For those cherished moments of quality reading paired with classic coffeehouse charm, Books & Co stands out as a must-visit sanctuary in Hong Kong.
Books & Co, 10 Park Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, p. 2559 5199
4. Bei Bei Bookhouse
This Hong Kong bookstore is established by a friendly couple in Yuen Long. Not only is Bei Bei Bookhouse a hidden literary oasis, it also encourages the art of slow living. The bookshop has an interesting leave-a-book/take-a-meal policy. This means customers can give a book to the bookstore in exchange for a meal cooked by the owners. Better yet, using their own fresh grown produce. Bei Bei is only open on Friday and Saturday, so make sure to check your calendar before visiting them!
Bei Bei Bookhouse, 67 Tai Kong Po Tsuen, Kam Tin, Yuen Long, Hong Kong, p. 5225 4119
5. Hong Kong Reader Bookstore
Selling an array of both Chinese and English books on humanities and social science, Hong Kong Reader Bookstore is a beloved academic bookstore in Mong Kok. In particular, you’ll find books on literature, philosophy, political science, cultural studies, and more. What’s more, it aims to create a culturally inspiring space for readers to explore their own thoughts and perspectives.
Hong Kong Reader Bookstore, 7/F, 68 Sai Yeung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong, p. 2395 0031
6. Kelly & Walsh
Starting out as a publisher and retailer in Shanghai in the 1870s, Kelly & Walsh now has branches in Yokohama, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Aiming to facilitate the cultural and intellectual pursuits of readers, Kelly & Walsh has got great books in store for its customers. We’re huge fans of its stunning giant coffee table books that cover all sorts of topics. Whether you’re looking for design and fashion or rare volumes on the weird and wonderful, you’ll find it here.
Kelly & Walsh, Shop 204, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway Road, Admiralty, Hong Kong, p. 2522 5744
7. Art and Cultural Outreach
Independent Hong Kong bookstore Art and Cultural Outreach is well known for its great selection of alternative reads. In particular, you’ll find everything from photography books to poetry to children’s books here. What’s more, this Hong Kong bookstore is situated in the historical Foo Tak Building. This means it’s a quiet and atmospheric readers’ haven. Furthermore, Art and Culture Outreach is dedicated to promoting different cultural events and art exhibitions in Hong Kong.
Read more about Foo Tak Building.
Art and Cultural Outreach, 14/F, Foo Tak Building, 365-367 Foo Tak Building, Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p. 2893 4808
8. Lily Bookshop
As one of our favourite indie Hong Kong bookstores to grab second-hand volumes, Lily Bookshop is a wonderful community-based bookstore situated in the heart of Sheung Wan. What’s more, this quaint shop has a great collection, ranging from European history to Chinese poetry to gender studies. Not only does Lily’s diverse collection prove it to be a gem in our vibrant literary community, but it’s also a calm oasis amidst the concrete jungle.
Lily Bookshop, Room F & G, 1/F, Kai Fung Mansion, 189-205 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2964 9483
9. Bookazine
With multiple branches spread across Hong Kong, Bookazine is an English bookstore chain that supports and champions local authors and writers. Other than the New York Times’ Best Sellers, it also sells greeting cards, a selection of cookbooks, adorable knick-knacks, and kids’ favourite sweets, making it a fun and diverse place for families and friends to hang.
Bookazine has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
10. Kubrick
Located just around the corner from Broadway Cinematheque in Yau Ma Tei, Kubrick is one of our favourite Hong Kong bookstores. Not only does its vast collection of non-fiction, graphic novels, soundtracks, CDs, and vinyls impress us, but we’re also fascinated by the selection of niche magazines on offer. From underground graphic novels published by Fantagraphics, to selected works by the legendary poet Bei Dao, Kubrick never ceases to surprise us with its outstanding choice of books. In particular, this place is a fun house for all that are into literature, music, and film!
In addition to the book shop, Kubrick also doubles as a cafe in Yau Ma Tei. So, grab a cuppa and get tucked in with a nice novel.
Kubrick, Shop H2, 3 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong, p. 2384 8929
11. Clark’s Comics
Opening its first shop in 1993, Clark’s Comics has grown into the largest comic retailer in Hong Kong, selling not only comics but also interesting action figures and collectible toys. From Marvel to DC Comics to Image Comics, including the hit I Hate Fairyland by Skotti Young, Clark’s wide variety of American comics has gained the shop a huge following. In particular, it’s one of the best Hong Kong bookstores to shop comics.
Clark’s Comics, Shop B7, B/F, Causeway Bay Centre, 15-23 Sugar Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, p. 2890 7718
12. Parenthèses
Parenthèses is a cosy French bookstore located on the second floor of Duke Wellington House in Central. In particular, it has an amazing array of French literature. These include textbooks, magazines, travel guides, graphic novels (we’re big fans of Guy Delisle), and even French films on DVD! So, French beginners, it’s time to grab your copy of Le Petit Prince or L’etranger at Parenthèse and practise.
Parenthèses, 2/F, Duke Wellington House, 14-24 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2526 9215
13. Vibe
A haven for book and music lovers, Vibe is hidden in Mui Wo and stands in the former site of Imprint, a bookstore known as the ‘nameless’ bookstore due to the absence of a proper signboard. The previous owner, Terry Boyce, has passed his legacy on to Gary Brightman in 2018. Renamed Vibe – and now having an actual logo outside – the store now offers both well-loved and new books in English, Chinese, French, and other languages. It also welcomes local creators to sell their own literary and musical compositions, making this venue a neighbourhood favourite when it comes to finding a quiet place to read and listen to music.
Vibe, Shop E, Silver Centre, Silvermine Bay, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, p. 9088 2370
14. Eslite
As the best known retail bookstore chain in Taiwan, Eslite has taken Hong Kong by storm since its arrival in 2012. The multi-level location in Hysan Place is our favourite, since it’s easy to lose time browsing across its shelves. What’s more, spanning several floors, this space is filled with quality books by writers and illustrators across every genre imaginable. In addition to books, you’ll also find a large selection of stationery, DVDs, and other wonderful finds.
Eslite has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
15. Muse Art & Books
Nestled inside Hotel Stage, Muse Art & Books is part of a unique art and cultural space named The Muse. In particular, this area includes a book shop and art gallery, a wine bar, and the Spotlight live performance venue. Seamlessly transitioning between the three, Muse Books & Art is the perfect starting point to your journey at The Muse. What’s more, you can explore a plethora of artisan books there, covering topics from design and photography, to lifestyle and poetry. So, found a book of interest? Simply make the purchase and head up to Club Stage, where a tranquil library lounge awaits.
Muse Art & Books, Hotel Stage, 1 Chi Wo Street, Jordan, Hong Kong, p. 3953 222
16. Rebooked
With a commitment to sustainability and making reading accessible, Rebooked is the largest Hong Kong bookstore for second-hand English children’s and YA books. Established in 2019, the store has crafted a handy platform where families are encouraged to both donate and pick up quality pre-loved children’s books. Starting at the modest price of just $10, Rebooked makes it affordable for kids to discover the joys of reading, all while playing a part in cutting down waste.
Check out our guide to the coolest gifts for kids in Hong Kong for even more great finds!
Rebooked, 1/F, 9 Mee Lun Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 6349 5025
17. Lok Man Rare Books
If you’re in search of rare books and signed editions, look no further than Lok Man Rare Books. In particular, this classy bookstore has an array of antiquarian books, including first editions and folios by celebrated authors from around the world. Genres such as modern and classic literature, children’s fiction, food and wine, history and travel, even finance and sports can be found at this bookstore. In particular, this is a true treasure trove for bookworms in Hong Kong.
Lok Man Rare Books, 6 Chancery Lane, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2868 1056
18. My Book One
My Book One has emerged as a saving grace for iconic Hong Kong bookstores. This platform unites cherished names like The Commercial Press, Joint Publishing, and Chung Hwa Book Co Ltd, empowering them to continue operations both online and offline. Since early 2022, My Book One has been the backbone for nearly 40 brick-and-mortar bookshops scattered throughout various Hong Kong neighbourhoods. By rallying these establishments under one banner, My Book One not only safeguards their esteemed histories, but also ensures that the local community continues to have access to a wealth of books and reading culture.
Find bookstores under My Book One at multiple locations across Hong Kong.
19. Book Punch
Dedicated to creating a community space for book lovers in the 852, Book Punch is a secluded haven for readers in the neighbourhood. In particular, it stocks a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction books in both Chinese and English. Since Book Punch is helmed by a fellow literary enthusiast, there’s a high chance you’ll come across niche pocket companions and theoretic books usually not seen in mainstream outlets. So, if you’re hunting down a rare volume, head over to Book Punch and try your luck!
Book Punch, 3/F, Tai Nan Commercial Building, 169-171 Tai Nan Street, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
20. Seeds Children’s Bookstore
Committed to promoting child-parent reading, Seeds Children’s Bookstore is stocked from floor to ceiling with a variety of kid-friendly books. In particular, we love that this Hong Kong bookstore offers volumes in both English and Chinese. So, you can nurture your little one’s bilingual skills from day one. What’s more, Seeds’ vibrant and spacious store in Central makes for the perfect literary haven for children to browse for their own books. Psst – you’ll also find a selection of learning materials at Seeds. These include practice books that focus on languages and maths, as well as volumes designed to develop imagination and nurture good behaviour in kids.
Seeds Children’s Bookstore, 10/F, On Building, 162 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2698 8939
[This article was originally published in July 2018 and updated in 2024 by Celia Lee.]
