Zhongshuge 钟书阁 has a reputation across China for having “the most beautiful bookstores,” and their location inside Beijing’s Galeries Lafayette department store (北京老佛爷百货商店, 100 Xidan North St.) certainly lives up to the title. While many modern bookstores these days opt for boxy minimalist cubes, Zhongshuge leans into the surreal.
The journey begins at the main entrance, where a traditional-style plaque hangs above a massive circular opening. The mirrored ceiling immediately doubles the height of the room, creating an infinite vertical library that feels both grand and slightly disorienting.
Play a tune while browsing.
The hallmark of this specific branch is the use of nested circular frames.
Standing at one end of the corridor, the rhythmic repetition of these “moon gates” creates a mesmerizing tunnel effect. The bookshelves aren’t just storage; they are the architecture itself, curving around you as you walk.
As you step inside, even the floor demands your attention. The stairs are designed to resemble the spines of books. It’s a playful touch that sets the tone for the rest of the store—every surface is an opportunity for a thematic detail.
Looking through these portals feels like looking through a camera lens or a telescope. The architects have used these circular cutouts to frame specific views of the store, encouraging visitors to slow down and appreciate the geometry of the space.
Tucked away within these circular structures are individual reading nooks. Some are fitted with leather cushions, offering a semi-private space to sit and browse through a selection of Chinese classics. It’s a clever way to integrate seating, and also a perfect framing device for selfies.
The interplay between the wooden curves and the mirrored ceiling creates a kaleidoscope of wood and paper.
At certain angles, it becomes difficult to tell where the actual shelf ends and the reflection begins, making the relatively compact store feel like an endless maze.
The main thoroughfare maintains this high-contrast aesthetic—polished black floors reflecting the warm glow of the circular portals. The space is divided into distinct zones, with books ranging from classic literature to modern bestsellers, each framed by these glowing arches.
At this intersection, the lighting shifts, a signpost directs the shopper to various book categories. Rows of warm, exposed bulbs hang from the ceiling, reflecting off the dark floors and adding a touch of “old-world” charm to the otherwise futuristic design.
Beyond the main stacks, one set of circles eventually lead you to a more functional study area. Even here, the “portal” motif persists, framing the sight of students and readers quietly working at their tables, separated from the main browsing area by the circular geometry.
Another set of circles lead you to a more conventional space that displays merchandises such as stationary and toys. The dark, mirrored surfaces give way to a bright, white-floored space.
It’s a stark transition that makes the main part of the bookstore feel even more like a hidden, separate world dedicated entirely to the printed word.
A dedicated children’s book section offers a visually calmer, less disorienting atmosphere; and low shelves.
Zhongshuge isn’t just a place to buy books; it’s an architectural experience defined by optical illusions, mirrored ceilings, and a series of circular portals.
Whether you come in search of a particular title or simply to wander among its mirrors and moon gates, it remains one of the most visually striking corners of Beijing’s retail landscape. Fortunately, I can read just enough Chinese to make the visit more than an architectural experience—it also became a productive shopping outing.
The bookstore is at the northern end of Xidan Commercial Street; 北京市西单北大街110号老佛爷百货B1层11-12号.
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