


Eslite Bookstore
About
Eslite Bookstore is a beloved Taipei landmark featuring multiple floors of books, with an impressive children's section that encourages young readers to explore and discover. Beyond books, families will find interactive play areas, arts and crafts supplies, and regular storytelling sessions and cultural activities. The late hours (open until midnight) make it a perfect rainy day destination or evening activity when jet-lagged kids are wide awake.
Highlights
- ✓Extensive children's book section with colorful displays and reading nooks
- ✓Interactive play areas where kids can test toys and games before buying
- ✓Unique Asian stationery, kawaii items, and educational materials
- ✓Regular weekend storytelling sessions and craft workshops
- ✓Late opening hours (until midnight) perfect for jet-lagged families
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit the children's floor during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience
- 2.Look for English language children's books in the international section, though the selection focuses primarily on Chinese titles
- 3.Check the events calendar online for English-friendly storytelling sessions or craft workshops, typically held on weekends
- 4.The stationery section has unique kawaii-style items and affordable souvenirs that kids love to collect
- 5.Take advantage of the in-store cafe on upper floors for a snack break, many families spend hours here
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) offer the quietest experience. Weekend afternoons get crowded with local families, but that's when special events and activities are most likely scheduled. Evening visits (after 7pm) work well for jet-lagged families.
What to Know
Admission is free, and you can browse without purchasing. The store is easily accessible via Zhongxiao Dunhua MRT station. While most signage is in Chinese, staff are generally helpful and some speak basic English. Credit cards widely accepted.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Special literary events and children's activities increase during Taiwanese school holidays (January-February for Lunar New Year, July-August for summer break). Air-conditioned comfort makes it ideal during hot, humid summer months.
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Nearby Eats
Din Tai Fung's flagship location is a short walk away, famous for kid-friendly soup dumplings (xiaolongbao). For quicker bites, the basement food court at nearby Breeze Center offers multiple Asian cuisine options with high chairs and family seating.
More Activities Near Taipei
Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola offers families a spectacular 30-minute cable car journey ascending from Taipei Zoo through lush mountain terrain to the famous tea-growing region of Maokong. Kids will be mesmerized by the panoramic bird's-eye views of Taipei 101, the city skyline, and verdant tea plantations below, while parents appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned cabins and the chance to combine urban exploration with mountain nature in one unforgettable outing.
Taipei Zoo
Taipei Zoo is one of Asia's largest and most impressive zoos, spanning over 400 acres with more than 400 species including the famous giant pandas. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature themed areas representing different world regions, a convenient gondola system for getting around, and stunning mountain backdrop views that make this a memorable day out for the whole family.
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, with over 700,000 treasures spanning 8,000 years of history. While best suited for older children who can appreciate the stunning jade carvings, ancient calligraphy, and intricate porcelain pieces, the museum offers family-friendly audio guides and special children's tours that bring history to life. The famous jade cabbage and meat-shaped stone are particularly captivating for young visitors.
Daan Forest Park
Daan Forest Park is Taipei's beloved green oasis, offering families a peaceful escape from the bustling city with expansive lawns perfect for running and playing, well-maintained playgrounds, and shaded walking paths. Kids can feed the ducks at the ponds, explore the ecological pools, and enjoy open spaces for ball games and picnics while parents relax under the trees.