Search for it: 5 unique bookstores across Taiwan that sell not just books but also human connection, heritage, and the meaning of travel

Reported by Xiao Wanning / Taipei

While many people imagine bookstores as quiet and somewhat unexciting, some are quite different. Eastern Media Travel Cloud has compiled a list of five unique bookstores across Taiwan—some sell not only books but also unexpected items, others are converted from old inns, and some even allow stays in exchange for secondhand books or specialize in travel books. These eclectic bookstores are just waiting to be visited.

1. Xiao Jian Book & Produce

▲ Xiao Jian Book & Produce was formerly a rice mill. (Photo / FromXiao Jian Book & Produce Facebook)

This bookstore that sells both books and produce might surprise you—it was transformed from an old rice mill. A couple who once worked as engineers and designers in Taichung grew tired of city life and turned to a self-sufficient farming lifestyle. Not only that, they source friendly vegetables from local farmers in Yilan and sell them through a book-for-produce exchange.
Address: No. 124, Shangshen Road, Yuanshan Township, Yilan County
Phone: (03) 922-0781

2. Shui Ping Bookstore

▲ Anyone who’s been to Shui Ping Bookstore is familiar with its iconic “book walls.” (Photo / By reporter Xiao Wanning)

When it comes to bookstores, the “cheapest bookstore in the country” is a legendary spot. The bookstore’s soul is its outspoken owner, Tseng Ta-fu, who loves to banter with customers. “This book is amazing—if you don’t think so, I’ll give you a round-trip ticket to Japan,” he says, thrusting the book into a customer’s hands. This quirky marketing tactic leaves everyone in line wide-eyed. Haven’t been to Shui Ping? Then you haven’t really explored bookstores.
Address: No. 1, Pucheng Street, Taipei City
Phone: (02) 2364-5726

3. Nong Yong Bookstore

▲ Nong Yong Bookstore has a retro vibe. (Photo / FromI Love Xizhou People Facebook)

Located in Xizhou, Changhua, Nong Yong Bookstore was once the “Success Inn,” which witnessed nearly a century of the town’s rise and decline. After the sugar refinery that once dominated the area left, the inn gradually fell into disuse—until it was reborn as a bookstore with a focus on agricultural literature. It’s not just about selling books here, but also preserving cultural heritage.
Address: No. 50, Fuxing Road, Xizhou Village, Xizhou Township, Changhua County
Phone: (04) 889-126

4. Huang Huang Secondhand Bookstore

▲ The story behind Huang Huang Secondhand Bookstore is heartwarming. (Photo / FromHuang Huang Secondhand Bookstore Facebook)

Bookstores that let you trade secondhand books for a stay are extremely rare, but one exists in Taitung. It’s not just a great place for travelers to buy books, but also offers book lovers the chance to exchange secondhand books for accommodation. The name “Huang Huang” has a touching backstory—visitors to Taitung should chat with the owner to hear the moving tale behind it.
Address: No. 8, Lane 503, Xinsheng Road, Taitung City
Phone: 0914 073 170

5. Traveler's Study

▲Traveler's Study. (Photo / fromTraveler's Study FB)

The Traveler's Study, a bookstore primarily featuring books that combine humanities with travel, is located on Qingtian Street in Taipei. The shop owner not only enjoys traveling but also places great emphasis on the meaning of travel itself. The bookstore’s categorization is based on travel themes — a rare approach that makes travel enthusiasts feel right at home.
Address: 2F, No. 12-2, Lane 12, Qingtian St., Taipei City
Phone: (02) 2322-4772