Independent bookshops have always been more than places to just purchase books. They are vital components of local communities, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Unlike larger chains or online platforms, self-run, brick-and-mortar bookshops tend to have collections that reflect the diversity of their clientele, offering a wide range of titles that champion different voices and experiences. These spaces transcend their role as mere retail outlets, evolving into cultural and social hubs for people from all walks of life to find representation, support, and a sense of belonging.
In an often unwelcoming world, inclusive bookstores provide a sanctuary where othered individuals can explore literature that speaks to their identities and experiences. The carefully curated selections in these stores highlight the different dimensions of the human experience, offering everything from historical accounts and theoretical texts to contemporary fiction and memoirs. By putting works by queer authors at the forefront, these bookstores affirm the importance of diverse narratives and ensure that different voices are heard and celebrated.
In Asia, independent, inclusive bookstores play a crucial role in democratising the literary landscape by championing local writers and stories that challenge societal norms and highlight marginalised narratives. By endeavouring to offer readers access to literature that encompasses a myriad of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, their commitment to creating a more diverse literary world paves the way for better representation of various identities and histories. Here, find the most inclusive and diverse independent bookstores across Asia—from Tokyo to Bangalore.
1 / 5
GinGin Store in Taipei, Taiwan
Established in 1999, GinGin Store is the first LGBTQIA+ bookshop in Asia. Founded as a community space for the Chinese-speaking queer community, the cultural hub provides both books and essential services, which is why you will find chest binders for sale alongside a vast collection of queer literature, artistic photo-books, and gender studies textbooks.
2 / 5
Loneliness Books in Tokyo, Japan
An independent publisher and bookstore dedicated to the literary exploration of queer and gender issues in Asia, Loneliness Books is an online store that has an underground reservation-only reading room situated in Okubo, and a curated selection of their works at the inclusive cocktail bar Tac’s Knot in Shinjuku alongside artworks by local queer artists.
3 / 5
Champaca Bookstore in Bangalore, India
With its diverse selection of books spanning various genres and perspectives, this women-owned and run space features works that speak of the great diversity in India and around the world. On the shelves, you’ll find books depicting caste narratives in rural India; moving personal memoirs on mental health; poetry bound in sari cloth; as well as translations from over twenty languages.
4 / 5
Post Bookshop in Jakarta, Indonesia
Situated in a traditional market in Jakarta Selatan, Post Bookshop seeks to offer an independent, alternative space for literature and dialogues. Books are handpicked by the owners and keepers, fostering a collection of unique, hard-to-find titles. All year round, they stock a collection of reads by feminist and queer authors—both local and imported.
5 / 5
Dali Bom in Seoul, South Korea
Named after its founder Soyeon Ryu’s cats Dali and Bom, this independent bookstore’s unique name holds a profound Korean meaning: to look differently. Nestled in Seoul’s Gwanak district, its cozy, compact space is brimming with feminist and LGBTQIA+ literature, including women’s stories published by Ryu herself.
