The first branch of its kind to open in Shanghai, Tsutaya Books 📚 can be found in Columbia Circle in a villa that used to be the residence of Sun Yat Sen’s son. The store has been open for a just couple of months but has already taken Chinese social media by storm. A number of unique books can be found in Tsutaya - many of which we haven’t really found at other bookstores. Among them, there’s a particularly large selection of books related to art, as well as architecture and design. There’s also a small section of books in English. The store’s interior is characterized by narrow hallways and old fashioned woodwork, offering a contrast to many of Shanghai's newly opened, ultramodern stores. It’s worth a visit even if to just check out the architecture. Sculptures and other pieces of art can be found scattered among the shelves and shelves of books. A café can be found on the first floor just as you walk in. On the second floor, you’ll find a restaurant with Japanese-American style fusion cuisine. Try out dishes like gyoza hot wings , beer steamed mussels, and cheese ebi chili. Cocktails with literature-inspired names are also on the menu, like Between Calmness and Passion and Theory of Relativity. A meal with drinks will average out at around CNY300 per person. In all of its splendor, this bookstore is quite popular among locals looking for the next insta-worthy shot. For this reason, you’ll have to make a reservation in advance on the store’s WeChat mini program if you want to visit. 📍 Location: Columbia Circle, 1262 West Yan’an Road ⏰ Hours: 10:00–23:00 #shanghaistyle #shanghaichic #bookstore #bookshop  #lightthecity#urbanexplorer#hipsterbookstore