BEST BOOKSTORES IN SINGAPORE

The home-grown success story that is BooksActually is one of the pioneers of the independent bookstore scene in Singapore. Aside from rare books and Asian literature, you’ll also find a range of vintage tchotchkes and stationery. BooksActually is home to Math Paper Press, their publishing arm, that gives local emerging writers a platform to be read and heard. A familiar space for local writers and readers alike, the store regularly hosts literary events that anyone can enjoy. Drop in for a poetry reading, get your book signed at a book launch, or stay the night during their annual 24 hour bookstore event. 

Hang around long enough and you might just catch a glimpse of one of their three cats! They're often found basking in the sunlight near the glass doors, or casually sauntering along the bookshelves. 

Littered With Books on Duxton Hill is also sure to delight book lovers — it’s a charming, quaint space with cozy reading corners and staff recommendations handwritten on post-its all over the shop. Find an array of fiction and non-fiction titles on their neverending bookshelves, and a children's section for the little ones. The two-storey shophouse also features a themed mystery section dedicated to the likes of Agatha Christie, Jo Nesbo, and P. D. James - pick up a suspenseful thriller, or delve right into spine-chilling true crime. 

Coffee lovers will enjoy a trip to The Moon - a bookstore, cafe, and event space located in the heart of Chinatown. Their specially curated collection shines a spotlight on women authors and writers of colour, where you can discover underrepresented writers and fresh, fascinating stories. With seating options scattered throughout their two-storey shophouse, spend the day here curled up on a cushion with a good book, or sip on a latte while browsing new buys. Literature aside,The Moon also carries candles, totes and artworks both designed in-house and by local creators.     

For rare and out-of-print books, check out Gohd Books, which has an online store in addition to its physical store, and ships worldwide.

Singapore’s biggest bookstore deserves mention here: the Japanese chain, Kinokuniya, with three locations across the island. Their store stocks wide selection of well-curated books, including a wide selection of Japanese books, magazines and stationery.

It's also worth making a trip down to Bras Basah Complex, known as the 'City of Books', located in the Bugis area. The space features several second-hand bookstores, art stores and a huge stationery store. Creatives should also head to Basheer Graphic Books, with their range of graphic books and magazines spanning across architecture, fashion, graphic design, interior design, movies, and photography.

Potter around Singapore’s bookstores and find something uniquely Singaporean to bring home — a book about Singapore’s culture or history, a collection of short stories by a local author, or a handcrafted notebook. These delightful alternatives to the usual souvenirs will make your Singapore memories much more valuable!