Bookshop Singapore: A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the City
If you’re a book lover in Singapore, you’re in luck because there are plenty of bookshops to explore. From popular chains to speciality and independent stores, you’ll find something for everyone. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the world of bookshops in Singapore and highlight some of the best ones to visit.

One of the most popular bookshops in Singapore is Times Bookstores. They offer a wide range of books, study materials, educational toys, and stationery, making it a great one-stop-shop for all your reading and learning needs. Another popular option is Books Kinokuniya, which has a collection of over 500,000 quality titles from all over the world, including English, Japanese, Chinese, French, and German publications.
If you’re looking for something more unique, there are plenty of speciality and independent bookshops to explore. Grassroots Book Room is a charming independent store that offers a carefully curated selection of books on Chinese culture, literature, and history. Another great option is BooksActually, a quirky store that specializes in fiction, poetry, and literary works by Singaporean authors.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore has a variety of bookshops to explore, from popular chains to speciality and independent stores.
- Times Bookstores and Books Kinokuniya are two of the most popular bookshops in Singapore.
- Grassroots Book Room and BooksActually are great options for those looking for a more unique and independent bookstore experience.
Popular Bookshops in Singapore

If you are a book lover in Singapore, you are in luck, as there are plenty of bookshops to choose from. Here are some of the most popular bookshops in Singapore that you should definitely check out:
Kinokuniya
Kinokuniya is a Japanese bookstore chain that has a branch in Singapore. Located in Ngee Ann City, this bookstore is a heaven for book lovers. The store has a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, magazines, and Japanese comics. The store is well-organized, making it easy for you to find the book you are looking for. Kinokuniya also offers discounts to students, so if you are a student, don’t forget to bring your student ID.
Times Bookstores
Times Bookstores is a popular chain of bookstores in Singapore. With multiple branches across the city, Times Bookstores has a wide range of books for all genres. The store also has a great selection of stationery and other office supplies. If you are looking for Chinese books, Times Bookstores has a dedicated section for Chinese books. The store also has a section for students, where you can find textbooks and other study materials.
Popular Bookstore
Popular Bookstore is a one-stop-shop for all your book and stationery needs. With multiple branches across Singapore, Popular Bookstore has a comprehensive range of merchandise, including books, educational resources, stationery, multimedia, gadgets & IT products, titbits, household appliances, and more. The store has a great selection of books for all genres and age groups, making it a great place for children and adults alike. Popular Bookstore also offers discounts to students, so if you are a student, don’t forget to bring your student ID.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a great bookshop in Singapore, you can’t go wrong with Kinokuniya, Times Bookstores, or Popular Bookstore. With their great selection of books, discounts, and other merchandise, these bookstores are a must-visit for any book lover in Singapore.
Speciality and Independent Bookshops

If you are looking for a unique and personalised book shopping experience, Singapore has a range of speciality and independent bookshops to choose from. Here are some of the best ones to check out:
Basheer Graphic Books
Basheer Graphic Books is a must-visit for design enthusiasts. Located in Bras Basah Complex, it offers an extensive collection of design books, including architecture, fashion, and graphic design. You can also find a range of art supplies and materials here.
Littered with Books
Tucked away in Duxton Hill, Littered with Books is a cosy and charming bookshop that offers a curated selection of fiction and non-fiction books. You can find books on a variety of topics, including travel, cooking, and design. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they can help you find the perfect book to suit your interests.
BooksActually
BooksActually is a beloved independent bookshop that has been around since 2005. The shop specialises in local literature, including poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. You can also find vintage stationery, such as postcards and notebooks, here. The shop is located in Tiong Bahru, a trendy neighbourhood with a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Woods in the Books
Woods in the Books is a charming children’s bookshop located in Tiong Bahru. The shop offers a range of children’s books, including picture books, graphic novels, and chapter books. You can also find children’s toys and gifts here. The shop hosts regular events, such as storytelling sessions and book launches.
Grassroots Book Room
Grassroots Book Room is a non-profit bookshop that focuses on Chinese culture and literature. The shop offers a range of books on Chinese history, philosophy, and literature. You can also find Chinese language learning materials here. The shop is located in the Tanjong Pagar Distripark, a former industrial building that has been repurposed as a creative hub.
Other speciality and independent bookshops in Singapore include Epigram Coffee Bookshop, which combines a bookshop with a cafe; Ethos Books, which focuses on publishing works by Singaporean authors; Gohd Books, which specialises in rare and out-of-print books; and Thryft, a second-hand bookshop that also sells vinyl records. Whether you are looking for cookbooks, travel guides, or rare books, there is a bookshop in Singapore that caters to your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the largest selection of books in Singapore?
If you’re looking for a wide range of books, stationery, and other merchandise, the largest POPULAR Bookstore outlet in Singapore is located in Bras Basah Complex. The store covers an area of over 35,000 square feet, making it the perfect place to find your next read.
Are there any online bookshops that offer delivery in Singapore?
Yes, there are several online bookshops that offer delivery in Singapore. OpenTrolley Bookstore Singapore is a popular online bookstore that offers a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. They offer free delivery within Singapore for orders over SGD 35.
What are some good bookstores for English literature in Singapore?
If you’re looking for English literature, Kinokuniya is a great bookstore to check out. They have a wide selection of English books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. Another great option is BooksActually, which specializes in independent and alternative literature.
How do I find bookshop outlets near me in Singapore?
If you’re looking for bookshop outlets near you in Singapore, you can use the National Library Board’s library locator tool. Simply enter your postcode or location, and the tool will show you the nearest libraries and bookshops.
Where can I buy affordable books in Singapore?
If you’re on a budget, you can find affordable books at several bookstores in Singapore. Popular Bookstore is a great option for affordable books, as they often have promotions and discounts. Another option is The Salvation Army Thrift Store, which sells second-hand books at affordable prices.
Are there any iconic bookstores in Singapore that are considered must-visits?
Yes, there are several iconic bookstores in Singapore that are considered must-visits. Kinokuniya is one of the most well-known bookstores in Singapore, and is a great place to find books on a wide range of topics. Another iconic bookstore is BooksActually, which specializes in independent and alternative literature. Finally, Woods in the Books is a unique children’s bookstore that is worth checking out.