How Bookstores Became Coffee Shops in China

When Beijing’s most respected independent bookstore, FENG RUSONG, finally closed its doors, it wasn’t just another casualty of online retail. It marked the end of an era for the city’s once-vibrant community of high-end, humanities-focused bookstores. Like many others, FENG RUSONG struggled against the combined pressure of marketisation and e-commerce—but unlike most, it had been a symbol of resistance. Its fall didn’t go unnoticed.

The short answer? To survive, many surviving bookstores turned to hybrid models—adding coffee shops inside or nearby, and hosting cultural events. Some even rent space to cafes for steady income. That shift helped keep doors open while preserving the reading experience.

Why Independent Bookstores Struggled

For decades, Beijing was home to a network of beloved independent bookstores that specialised in philosophy, literature, history, and the arts. These were not just places to buy books—they were cultural hubs. But as book retail moved online and big-box stores dominated, these niche stores found themselves unable to compete on price or convenience. The rise of digital reading further eroded their customer base.

A Notable Loss: FENG RUSONG

Among the most respected was FENG RUSONG, a flagship of the high-end humanities bookstore scene. Its closure was widely seen as symbolic—proof that even the strongest players couldn’t survive the dual pressures of digital disruption and shifting consumer habits. Staff and regulars lamented the loss, not just of books, but of a community space built around serious reading.

The Hybrid Survival Strategy

In response, industry insiders began advocating for “diversified operations.” One of the most effective strategies was integrating a café into the bookstore space—or locating the bookstore inside or alongside an existing café. This approach brought in a new revenue stream while also attracting foot traffic that might otherwise never enter a traditional bookstore.

CHENGDU’s HONG WEN JU is one example. Its owner, ZENG HUA, experimented with mixed-use spaces that blend books and beverages. The goal wasn’t just survival—it was creating a new kind of cultural venue where people could read, drink coffee, and attend events.

Real-World Example: SAN LIAN SHU DIAN

Another well-known case is BEIJING’s SAN LIAN SHU DIAN, once a leading high-end bookstore focused on the humanities. By October of last year, its second floor had been transformed into a flagship coffee shop. According to store management, the café pays an annual rent of 1 million RMB—relieving financial pressure on the bookstore itself. Importantly, the café has not disrupted the reading environment. On the contrary, the presence of a coffee area has been seen as complementary, maintaining the overall atmosphere while ensuring the bookstore remains economically viable. The café’s operation is carefully designed not to interfere with the bookstore’s core identity or customer experience.

What This Means for the Future of Bookstores

The transformation of bookstores into hybrid book-and-café spaces reflects a broader trend in retail: combining services to meet changing consumer expectations. For bookstore owners, it’s not just about selling books anymore—it’s about creating an experience. The café model offers a way to maintain a cultural space while adapting to economic realities. And for customers, it means access to both literature and community in one inviting setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did so many bookstores in Beijing close?

Many closed due to competition from online bookstores and the broader shift to digital retail. Rising rents, falling foot traffic, and changing consumer habits—especially among younger readers—also played major roles. Humanities-focused stores were hit hardest, as they served niche audiences with less mass-market appeal.

Which bookstore closures were especially significant?

The closure of FENG RUSONG was seen as symbolic. It had been one of Beijing’s most respected independent bookstores, known for its focus on serious literature and academic works. Its shutdown marked the end of an era for the city’s high-end humanities bookstore scene.

How do bookstores and coffee shops work together?

In many cases, bookstores have added cafés inside their spaces or partnered with existing coffee shops. The café generates steady rental income or cross-promotional traffic. In some instances, the café pays the bookstore rent, as happened when a flagship coffee shop began operating on the second floor of SAN LIAN SHU DIAN, contributing 1 million RMB annually to support the bookstore.

Does having a café inside a bookstore affect the reading atmosphere?

According to reports, including from SAN LIAN SHU DIAN, the presence of a café has not negatively impacted the reading environment. Instead, it is seen as complementary—enhancing the atmosphere without disrupting the bookstore’s core purpose or alienating traditional readers.

Are cultural events part of the hybrid bookstore strategy?

Yes. Many surviving or adapted bookstores host cultural events, art salons, and community gatherings. These events help draw in visitors, create a sense of community, and provide additional value beyond book sales. This approach has been used by owners like ZENG HUA of CHENGDU’s HONG WEN JU.

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