Visiting China’s Tallest Bookstore in the Sky — Duoyun Bookstore, Shanghai Tower

Having lived in China for several years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit many different bookstores and libraries. Some are tucked away in quiet courtyards, others hidden in busy shopping malls, and a few are surprisingly modern in design. But on a recent trip to Shanghai, I found something totally different—a bookstore with a view. And not just any view. This one turned out to be the highest bookstore in China, 52 floors up inside the country’s tallest building, the Shanghai Tower.

I had heard about Duoyun Bookstore before, but seeing it in person was a completely different experience. The bookstore sits more than 700 feet above the ground, and even though it’s only halfway up the tower, the views are already breathtaking. You feel like you’re floating above the city.

Exploring the Area Around the Tower

Before heading up, I spent a little time exploring the surrounding area. It’s right in the heart of Lujiazui, Shanghai’s financial district. This is the part of the city you often see in postcards and videos—glass towers everywhere, wide open spaces, and beautifully landscaped city parks.

There’s something calming about this part of the city. Even though you’re surrounded by skyscrapers and office buildings, there’s still greenery, flowers, and walking paths. Lujiazui Central Park is a great place to stop if you’re early or just want a peaceful break before heading into the tower. I recommend visiting around sunset or just after dark, when all the buildings light up. It feels like you’re walking through a futuristic city.

You can also get some great photos of the Shanghai Tower itself from ground level. Looking up, the building seems to twist up endlessly into the sky. It’s actually the second tallest building in the world, reaching over 2,000 feet. And the design is really beautiful—like a spiral ribbon made of glass and steel.

How to Get to Duoyun Bookstore

To get to the bookstore, head toward the Shanghai Tower, which is clearly the tallest building in the area. It’s hard to miss, especially when standing next to the nearby Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center (also known as the “bottle opener” building). As you walk around the tower, look for signs that say Duoyun Bookstore or 多云书店 in Chinese.

The entrance isn’t inside the main tower lobby used for the observation decks or offices. Instead, it’s tucked around the side. If you’re unsure, just keep walking around the base of the building and you’ll find the small entrance area marked for the bookstore. You can also watch this short video I made where I show exactly how to get there and what to expect once you’re inside.

Booking Your Visit in Advance

Something important to know—you’ll need to book a time slot online before visiting. The bookstore has become quite popular, especially among travelers and locals who enjoy reading or photography. Time slots often fill up fast, especially on weekends or during holidays. You might still be able to get a spot on the day if it’s quiet, but I wouldn’t count on it. It’s safer to book online ahead of time so you don’t make the trip for nothing.

When you arrive, you’ll check in, then wait in a small queue. Once your group is ready, you’ll be led through a short security check and then into the elevator. From there, it’s a quick but exciting ride up to the 52nd floor.

What’s Inside the Bookstore

The bookstore itself has a really unique layout. It feels cozy, almost like you’ve entered someone’s private study in the sky. There are shelves filled with Chinese literature, art books, design and photography collections, and a selection of translated Western classics.

Even if you’re not fluent in Chinese, it’s still a lovely place to explore. The design is modern but warm, with wooden shelves, soft lighting, and quiet corners where people sit and read or just enjoy the view. I spent quite a while just browsing and soaking in the atmosphere.

The Balcony and Café Area

But the real star of the visit is the balcony café. It’s not just a place to grab a drink—this is where the view really takes over. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, you can see across the whole of Pudong and over to the Bund on the other side of the Huangpu River. On a clear day, you can even see the curve of the river winding through the city.

The outer balcony area is beautifully designed, with wooden decks, small trees, potted plants, and benches where people sit quietly with a book or coffee. There’s even a small bell that sometimes rings softly in the wind. It doesn’t feel like you’re in a major city at all—it feels like a peaceful hideaway above the clouds.

To step outside onto the balcony, you’re asked to purchase something from the café. The drinks are slightly pricier than your average coffee shop in China, but still very reasonable—especially compared to Western prices. I got a simple latte and sat on a bench watching the sun begin to set over the skyline. It was quiet, peaceful, and completely surreal.

Tips for Your Visit

• Try to go on a weekday if possible. It’s much quieter, and you can enjoy the space without too many crowds. Also check which days it’s open first as this may change.
• Bring your phone or camera, especially if you’re into photography. The light up there is amazing, especially during golden hour.
• Use the restroom before going up, as the facilities are limited on that floor.
• Book in advance online, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Don’t rush. Take your time, grab a drink, read for a bit, and enjoy the view. It’s not just a bookstore—it’s an experience.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Duoyun Bookstore was one of the highlights of my trip to Shanghai. It’s not just the height or the view that makes it special. It’s the feeling of being completely above the noise and rush of the city—surrounded by books, plants, soft light, and wide-open skies.

If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and want to see something different from the usual tourist spots, this is a quiet gem well worth the climb. Whether you’re a book lover, a photographer, or just someone who enjoys peaceful spaces, Duoyun Bookstore offers a moment of calm and beauty in one of the busiest cities in the world.