Introduction

In recent years, running an independent bookshop in Hong Kong has become increasingly challenging. The city is grappling with soaring rents, restricted physical space, and increasingly complex legal restrictions following China's imposition of a stringent national security law in 2020. In addition, a resurrected colonial-era sedition law has also emerged, making it difficult for bookshops to determine which materials could be deemed sensitive. This climate of uncertainty has led to censorship, with public libraries receiving orders to remove specific titles deemed inappropriate. In one notorious case, five speech therapists were sentenced to 19 months in prison for publishing children's books that allegedly violated the sedition law.

Despite these setbacks, a handful of independent bookshops continue to flourish, driven by innovative ideas, supportive landlords, and a passionate reading community that still values the charm of rare and secondhand books. Here are some notable survivors in the ever-evolving landscape of Hong Kong’s literary scene.

Lok Man Rare Books

Founded in 2006 by Lorence Johnston, Lok Man Rare Books stands out for its unique focus on rare and collectible gems. After moving from Chancery Lane to the upscale Pedder Building in Central, this shop features deep, inviting armchairs and an impressive collection that spans various literary genres. Over the years, Johnston has cultivated knowledge about the rare book market, offering extraordinary titles, including rare editions of renowned works. While many customers are collectors, most seek meaningful gifts that evoke cherished memories or inspire new adventures, with prices often starting at around HKD 3,000 (approximately USD 386) and soaring much higher.

Gentle Books

Following a successful stint selling vintage clothes at a flea market in 2023, friends Diane Wang and Jessica Cheung decided to host exclusive pop-up book shops instead. By sourcing donations and creating a community-focused atmosphere, they aim to nurture a “circular book economy.” Their pop-ups have been hosted at local cafes, drawing in both dog-walkers and book lovers alike. They also promote reading through innovative events like silent reading sessions and themed book club nights, creating an engaging environment for the literary community.

Dionysus Books

In the serene town of Sai Kung, Stephanie Chong and her husband, Samuel Li, realized a dream of opening a bookstore after Chong left a job she found unfulfilling. Their shop, Dionysus Books, thrives despite its remote location, offering an eclectic mix of affordable secondhand English books and new Chinese-language titles. With a focus on meaningful literature that transcends national boundaries, Chong's passion is evident in the care with which she selects each title. Operating without a large commercial agenda, the couple sees Dionysus more as a passion project than a traditional business, making just enough to sustain themselves while sharing their love of reading with the community.

Lily Bookshop

Nestled in Sheung Wan, Lily Bookshop greets visitors with stacks of books waiting to be discovered within its cozy spaces. Owned by Lily Wang, the shop primarily features donations, with an extensive collection of antique and unique editions. Among its highlights is a rare 1967 Hong Kong directory, a testament to the shop's treasure-trove of historical significance. Originally sharing space with Flow Bookshop, a well-known independent bookstore, Lily Bookshop not only continues to thrive today but also supports Flow’s mission of preserving the reading habit in the community.

Conclusion

While independent bookshops in Hong Kong face increasing challenges, stories of creativity, community, and perseverance underscore their vital role in the city's cultural fabric. These literary havens invite shoppers to explore the magic of reading, reminding us all that books are not just commodities; they are connections to our past, pathways to new ideas, and bridges in our community. As Hong Kong continues to evolve, each page turned in these shops symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity.