Bookstore inside 326-meter sinkhole becomes viral landmark

chinadaily.com.cn2025-11-27 20:07

　　A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　A cliffside bookstore in the walls of a 326-meter-deep sinkhole in Hechi, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, is drawing widespread attention for its dramatic setting and unusual reading experience.

　　After opening in May inside the Mianhua Tiankeng Scenic Area, the bookstore quickly became a landmark. At night, lights illuminate more than 10,000 books arranged along the cliff, creating what operators call a "knowledge canyon". Visitors must descend over 1,000 plank-road steps to reach it.

　　A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　He Zhijian, founder of the scenic area, said construction was highly challenging due to the steep karst terrain that required specialized anchoring technology. He said the concept was inspired by Japan's Tsutaya Bookstore and elements from its Hangzhou branch.

　　"A unique trait of the bookstore is that no matter how heavy the wind and rain become, it never gets wet," He said. "The sinkhole acts as a natural shelter, shielding it perfectly."

　　A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　Wei Kaiyong, deputy general manager of the site's development company, said the design aims to connect readers with the surrounding landscape rather than maximize book sales.

　　The project has helped reshape the local tourism economy. Once isolated and limited by water shortages, Mianhua village, where the bookstore is located, has seen dramatic changes since authorities began developing the scenic area in 2019. Improved infrastructure has encouraged villagers to return and open homestays and restaurants.

　　A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　According to Wei, the scenic area also includes a cliff pool, a hotel, and a cafe. To date, it has welcomed over 100,000 visitors and become a viral photo spot.