Bookstore inside 326-meter sinkhole becomes viral landmark

A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Wei Kaiyong, deputy general manager of the site's development company, said the design aims to connect readers with the surrounding landscape rather than maximize book sales.

The project has helped reshape the local tourism economy. Once isolated and limited by water shortages, Mianhua village, where the bookstore is located, has seen dramatic changes since authorities began developing the scenic area in 2019. Improved infrastructure has encouraged villagers to return and open homestays and restaurants.

A cliffside bookstore in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has redefined the reading experience with its one-of-a-kind setting. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

According to Wei, the scenic area also includes a cliff pool, a hotel, and a cafe. To date, it has welcomed over 100,000 visitors and become a viral photo spot.