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Eslite Bookstore Bookstores in Taipei, TPE
Photo: Google
View of Eslite Bookstore in Taipei, TPE
Photo: Google
View of Eslite Bookstore in Taipei, TPE
Photo: Google

Eslite Bookstore

4.2(41 reviews)$$Activity
🕑 1.5-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the colorful picture book section and interactive displays, while elementary-aged kids can explore English and bilingual books, stationery, and educational toys. Teens may enjoy the manga section and trendy stationery.

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. 1.Visit the children's floor during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience
  2. 2.Look for English language children's books in the international section, though the selection focuses primarily on Chinese titles
  3. 3.Check the events calendar online for English-friendly storytelling sessions or craft workshops, typically held on weekends
  4. 4.The stationery section has unique kawaii-style items and affordable souvenirs that kids love to collect
  5. 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.

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