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China’s Most Most Jaw-Dropping Libraries (You Won’t Believe #3)
China's Jaw-Dropping Libraries & Photogenic Bookstore
Today, I’m taking you inside two of the country’s most stunning libraries and a bookstore so breathtaking, it might just be the most photogenic spot for book lovers anywhere in the world. #LibrariesinChina #China #chinatravel #beijing #tianjin
Today, I’m taking you inside two of the country’s most stunning libraries and a bookstore so breathtaking, it might just be the most photogenic spot for book lovers anywhere in the world.
Prepare to be amazed by China's most jaw-dropping libraries and a bookstore so beautiful, it's a photographer's dream! Rafa Goes Around! explores architectural marvels that are more than just places to read; they are experiences. Discover spaces that blend design, culture, and a passion for books in ways you've never imagined. This is a visual feast for anyone who loves literature and stunning aesthetics.
Today, I’m taking you inside two of the country’s most stunning libraries and a bookstore so breathtaking, it might just be the most photogenic spot for book lovers anywhere in the world.
Rafa Goes Around! takes us on a tour of China's most photogenic libraries and bookstores, starting with the iconic Tianjin Binhai Library. This massive 33,000 sqm space features a giant eye-like sphere and wavy shelves—but many of the books are actually printed on metal plates because the shelves couldn't handle the real weight. The library lacks air conditioning, which feels odd for such a modern building. Next, the Beijing City Library, opened in late 2023, stuns with its 16-meter-tall book columns and a main reading hall that resembles a futuristic airport. It can hold 8.4 million books and 2,400 readers. Finally, the Chonguka bookstore in Zibo, Shandong, offers a dreamlike experience with mirror ceilings, curved bookshelves, and a nine-floor pagoda containing a bar with city views. This multi-purpose space includes a cafe, kids' playground, tea lounge, and creative workshops, attracting thousands daily. Rafa marvels at the architectural ambition but notes the occasional maintenance issues. The tour highlights China's investment in cultural spaces that blend education, design, and social engagement.
Rafa takes us inside three of China's most jaw-dropping book spaces—from the viral 'Eye of Binhai' library in Tianjin (where most books are actually fake) to Beijing's soaring 16-meter reading hall, and finally a mind-bending mirrored bookstore in Zibo. Each one blends architecture, culture, and a dash of surprise.
Rafa explores three stunning Chinese libraries and bookstores, from Tianjin's fake-book masterpiece to a mirrored wonder in Zibo.
China's Most Jaw-Dropping Libraries & Bookstores Tour
2:35 The Tianjin library's high shelves are for display only—most books are printed on metal plates due to weight concerns. Don't expect to grab a book from the upper levels.
4:23 Visitors are advised not to wear high heels when climbing the stepped shelves in the Tianjin library, as the sloped surfaces can be dangerous.
7:00 The Beijing City Library's main hall is best visited in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural light from the skylights.
8:32 The Chonguka bookstore in Zibo offers more than books—explore the basement kids' play area, the second-floor cave-inspired zone, and the seventh-floor tea lounge with nightly light shows.
9:15 For panoramic views of Zibo, head to the bar on the fifth floor of the pagoda inside the Chonguka bookstore—it's a great spot for photos and drinks.
2:35 The Tianjin library's high shelves are for display only—most books are printed on metal plates due to weight concerns. Don't expect to grab a book from the upper levels.
4:23 Visitors are advised not to wear high heels when climbing the stepped shelves in the Tianjin library, as the sloped surfaces can be dangerous.
7:00 The Beijing City Library's main hall is best visited in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural light from the skylights.
8:32 The Chonguka bookstore in Zibo offers more than books—explore the basement kids' play area, the second-floor cave-inspired zone, and the seventh-floor tea lounge with nightly light shows.
9:15 For panoramic views of Zibo, head to the bar on the fifth floor of the pagoda inside the Chonguka bookstore—it's a great spot for photos and drinks.
0:50 Starting in Tianjin
1:06 Tianjin Binhai Library
2:35 The fake books reveal
4:44 No air conditioning
5:36 Beijing City Library
6:26 Massive book columns
8:15 Chonguka bookstore in Zibo
9:15 Pagoda with bar and views
10:21 Conclusion and wrap-up
0:50 Starting in Tianjin
1:06 Tianjin Binhai Library
2:35 The fake books reveal
4:44 No air conditioning
5:36 Beijing City Library
6:26 Massive book columns
8:15 Chonguka bookstore in Zibo
9:15 Pagoda with bar and views
10:21 Conclusion and wrap-up
Why is there no air conditioning in the library?
I don't understand that really. It's quite hot but there's no air conditioning.
Are all the books in the Tianjin library real?
Most of them are just metal plates with printed images of books because the shelves couldn't handle the weight of real books.
What should I avoid wearing when visiting the Tianjin library?
They recommend not to come in high heels because the stairs can be dangerous.
