Yucheng Posthouse
A visually stunning bookstore in Shanghai's Thames Town, featuring a breathtaking book tunnel and innovative architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Yucheng Posthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A visually stunning bookstore in Shanghai's Thames Town, featuring a breathtaking book tunnel and innovative architecture.
"A beautiful bookstore, but it doesn’t look like a bookstore! Its design is diverse and eye-opening."
📚 Not All Books Are Real
Enjoy the visual spectacle, but know that some books are decorative.
☕ Cafe Hours Vary
The cafeteria may be off-duty; check hours beforehand if you plan to eat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Book Tunnel
Main Hallway
A breathtaking tunnel lined with books, creating an immersive literary experience.
Architectural Diversity
Various Sections
Explore unique spaces resembling libraries, churches, and even cafes within the bookstore.
Books Everywhere!
Walls, Stairs, Floors
Discover books integrated into the architecture, from walls to glass floors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bookworm's Paradise, But Manage Expectations
Thames Town's Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Not All Books Are Real
Enjoy the visual spectacle, but know that some books are decorative.
☕ Cafe Hours Vary
The cafeteria may be off-duty; check hours beforehand if you plan to eat.
📸 Capture the Design
The unique architecture is a major draw; bring your camera!
📍 Thames Town Location
It's located in Shanghai's Thames Town, a unique themed area.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Not All Books Are Real
Enjoy the visual spectacle, but know that some books are decorative.
☕ Cafe Hours Vary
The cafeteria may be off-duty; check hours beforehand if you plan to eat.
📸 Capture the Design
The unique architecture is a major draw; bring your camera!
📍 Thames Town Location
It's located in Shanghai's Thames Town, a unique themed area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Yucheng Posthouse's stunning and unique bookstore design, particularly the book tunnel and architectural integration of books. However, some note that not all books are real, and the on-site cafeteria may not always be operational, leading to mixed experiences regarding amenities.
"One of the most beautiful bookstores I have ever seen, however not all the books on the tunnel are real and by the time I saw it the cafeteria was off duty."
Javier GM
"😮😮😮😮😮"
Shokrullah Osmani
"A beautiful bookstore, but it doesn’t look like a bookstore!
Thames Town in Songjiang, Shanghai is its warm and comfortable home. Books are everywhere, pasted on the walls, leaning against the stairs, lying under the steps, sleeping under the glass floor... Their traces can be seen anytime and anywhere.
Zhongshuge is a bookstore, but it doesn’t look exactly like a bookstore. How should I put it? Its design is diverse and divided into many blocks. Some look like libraries, some look like churches, some look like convenience stores, some look like cafes, some look like iron cages... It is very interesting.
Here, literature, art, architecture and business meet happily, which is really eye-opening!"
cc wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yucheng Posthouse is located in Thames Town, Songjiang District, Shanghai. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Shanghai Metro Line 9 to Songjiang New City Station, then transferring to a local bus or taxi to Thames Town.
Thames Town is designed to resemble a British town, and while charming, it's best to use a map app or ask locals for directions to specific spots like Yucheng Posthouse.
Walking is a great way to explore Thames Town. Local buses and taxis are also available for longer distances within the area.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available in Thames Town. However, traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours.
Yes, it is accessible via Shanghai Metro Line 9, followed by a bus or taxi. The journey can take around 1-1.5 hours depending on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Yucheng Posthouse itself is generally free, as it's a bookstore. However, specific events or exhibitions might require separate tickets.
Opening hours can vary, but bookstores typically open around 10 AM and close around 9 PM. It's advisable to check their official social media or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Thames Town is a residential and commercial area, so there is no admission fee to enter. You only pay for purchases within the shops or cafes.
Information on booking tickets for special events is usually found on the bookstore's official channels or through ticketing platforms.
Discounts are typically not advertised for general entry. However, loyalty programs or special promotions might be available for book purchases.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, especially to capture the unique design. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in certain areas.
The book tunnel, the staircases with books, and any section with unique architectural features are prime photo opportunities.
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's best to contact the management beforehand to inquire about permits and fees.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons, when the lighting is softer and crowds are thinner, are ideal for photography.
Yes, the books integrated into the walls are a key visual element and are popular for photos.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Yucheng Posthouse typically has a cafe. However, reviews indicate that it may be off-duty at times, so it's best to check in advance.
The cafe usually offers coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. The menu might vary.
Thames Town offers various dining options, including Western-style restaurants and cafes, reflecting its British theme.
It's generally not recommended to bring outside food and drinks into a bookstore cafe to maintain the ambiance and cleanliness.
It can be, but be aware of potential closures. If open, it offers a unique setting to relax with a drink.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Thames Town itself provides a pleasant environment for families to walk around. The European-style streets offer a different kind of exploration. While the bookstore's intricate designs might require closer supervision for very young children, the overall experience can be a memorable outing, especially for families who appreciate unique aesthetics and a break from the usual city sights.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting during weekday mornings or late afternoons is recommended to avoid crowds and capture softer lighting. Be mindful of other visitors and any potential restrictions on flash photography. The surrounding Thames Town also offers charming European-style backdrops for outdoor photography, making it a dual-purpose destination for visual artists.
📚 Book Lovers
It's worth exploring the actual book selections available, though the primary draw remains the design. The bookstore's unique layout encourages discovery, and the atmosphere is conducive to browsing. For those who appreciate bookstores as spaces of art and design, Yucheng Posthouse is a must-visit, even with its unconventional approach to book display.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Yucheng Posthouse
The bookstore is divided into various themed sections, each with a distinct architectural style. Visitors can find spaces that evoke the grandeur of libraries, the solemnity of churches, or the intimacy of cafes. This diversity ensures that every corner offers a new perspective and a unique experience, making it a highly photogenic location. The integration of literature, art, and architecture creates an eye-opening experience for all who visit.
While the visual impact is undeniable, it's important to note that not all books displayed are real. Many serve as decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic. This is a common practice in such uniquely designed spaces. Despite this, the overall effect is incredibly powerful, drawing visitors into a dreamlike atmosphere where books are an integral part of the very structure.
Experiencing Thames Town
Exploring Thames Town is an experience in itself. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque streets, admire the European-inspired buildings, and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants. The area is popular for pre-wedding photoshoots due to its romantic ambiance. While Yucheng Posthouse is a major attraction, the entire town offers a unique backdrop for exploration and photography.
Getting to Thames Town involves a metro ride followed by a local bus or taxi. It's a bit of a journey from central Shanghai, but many find the unique atmosphere and the architectural novelty of both the town and the bookstore well worth the trip. It's a destination that offers a different pace and a distinct visual identity within Shanghai.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit