Bookstore Street

Introducing Bookstore Street

There aren't many streets in the world named after bookstores, but two are famous: Kanda Book Street in Tokyo, Japan, and Kaifeng's Bookstore Street. Kaifeng's Bookstore Street, located in Longting District, has a history dating back a thousand years to the Northern Song Dynasty, while Kanda Book Street only has a history of over a century.

Bookstore Street runs north-south, connecting East-West Street in the north and Drum Tower Square in the south. During the Northern Song Dynasty, this area was known as Gaotou Street, adjacent to the Song Dynasty Imperial Palace. At the time, the primary commodities traded here included clothing, books, calligraphy and paintings, antiques, and traditional Chinese medicine. It wasn't until the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty that the area was officially named "Bookstore Street," becoming renowned for its books, calligraphy, paintings, and the four treasures of the study.

Bookstore Street stretches just over 600 meters, and its two-story, loft-style buildings, mostly constructed from dark blue bricks with white seams and tiled roofs, feature overhanging eaves and sloping ridges, creating a simple and elegant style. The street is home to over 40 bookstores of various sizes, over 100 cultural goods stores, and other businesses, including restaurants, department stores, and handicrafts.

The memorial archway at the north entrance of Bookstore Street and the former site of the Henan-Shaanxi District Committee of the Communist Party of China at the western corner of the street are where Wang Ruofei and Xiao Chu'nu once fought. At the southern end of Bookstore Street stands a blue-gray Qing Dynasty building, with a sculpture of a "God of Longevity Holding a Peach" above its gate. This shop, called "Jinyang Yu," was founded during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty and once sold fruit, groceries, and pastries. It is now a bookstore.

Climate and best time to travel

With a warm temperate continental monsoon climate, you can stroll along Bookstore Street and feel the accumulation of history and culture. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Kaifeng Bookstore Street is a unique street in Kaifeng. It's the only historical district in China named after a bookstore. Bookstore Street was already famous during the Northern Song Dynasty, and by the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was a popular spot for strolling, reading, and relaxing.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bookstore Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bookstore Street in Kaifeng is a renowned cultural destination that showcases the city's long history of literature and education. The street is lined with many bookstores, from traditional to modern, offering a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers. It’s a place where visitors can explore China’s literary heritage while enjoying a modern shopping experience.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Bookstore Street is located in the center of Kaifeng, Henan. It is easily accessible by taxi, local buses, or even walking if you're staying nearby. Public transport is the most common and convenient way to get there from major parts of the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Bookstore Street is open daily, generally from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest hours in the afternoon and evening. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for Bookstore Street, as it is an open street with various bookstores. Visitors are free to browse at their leisure, but items from the stores will have individual prices. Payment for books and merchandise can be done in-store.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required for visiting Bookstore Street, as it is a public area. However, if attending a special event, such as a book launch or lecture, it might be wise to check availability and book in advance if necessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Bookstore Street can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend in each bookstore or the cafés along the street. For those interested in reading or browsing, you might want to allocate more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The unique bookstores that specialize in various genres such as Chinese literature, history, and art.
• Cafés where you can relax with a book and enjoy local tea or snacks.
• The street’s traditional architecture and peaceful vibe, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not commonly available in Bookstore Street, but some bookstores may offer individual assistance to help you find specific books. Most assistance is likely to be in Chinese, though some larger stores may have English-speaking staff.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the street itself, where the traditional architecture of the shops and the bustling atmosphere make for great shots. Don’t miss the beautiful signage of each bookstore and the cozy corners of the cafés.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main stretch of Bookstore Street, browsing the various bookstores. Stop for a coffee or tea break in one of the cafés along the way. If you have more time, explore any side streets or nearby attractions such as local markets or cultural sites.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no light shows or night tours available specifically for Bookstore Street. However, the street is beautifully lit at night and is an enjoyable place for an evening stroll. Special events may be held at some bookstores or nearby cultural centers, so it’s worth checking the local schedule.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Bookstore Street can get quite crowded during weekends, especially in the afternoon. To avoid the crowds, try visiting in the morning or on weekdays, which tend to be quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Toilets are available in some of the larger bookstores and public areas nearby.
• Food and water can be purchased at various cafés along the street or in the surrounding area.
• Shops selling books, stationery, and souvenirs are abundant.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The street is generally accessible, but there are some uneven surfaces and steps, so it may not be ideal for wheelchair users. It is a child-friendly place with lots of open space for kids to enjoy, but elderly visitors should be cautious of the crowd, especially during busy hours.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most bookstores and cafés accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as credit and debit cards. Cash is less commonly used, but it is advisable to have some local currency just in case.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Several small cafés and tea houses line the street, offering a relaxing place to enjoy a drink or snack.
• Nearby restaurants serve local Henan cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and various regional dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some cafés and restaurants, especially in the larger eateries. Halal food options are less common in this area, but may be found in larger cities like Zhengzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are budget hotels and guesthouses nearby, offering basic accommodations. For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in the city center of Kaifeng, where more high-end hotels are available.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Kaifeng Iron Pagoda, a historical landmark.
• The Kaifeng Museum, which provides insight into the region's cultural history.
• Dragon Pavilion, another famous site in Kaifeng with historical and cultural significance.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops along the street offer a range of products, from traditional Chinese arts and crafts to modern stationery and books. Popular souvenirs include local handicrafts, bookmarks, and books about Chinese culture and history.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxi or public buses are the best options to continue your trip. For longer distances, you can take a train from Kaifeng Railway Station or a bus to Zhengzhou or other nearby cities.