Life’s Simple Pleasures

Thursday 10^th March 2011

Life’s Simple Pleasures.

On Thursday after work, I decided to get away from busy city life and find some quiet space. I had seen ‘The Old China Hand book store’ mentioned in tourist guide books a few times and had really wanted to go there. It is open until midnight and has half its book shelves filled with Chinese books (specifically rare art and literature books about Shanghai’s rich culture) but the the other half is filled with English ones – plus a few old out of print French books. I had read that well-known photographer and historian Deke Erh had set it up in 1997 and that the reading rooms are filled with traditional Chinese art such as calligraphy on the walls, giving it a very relaxing and ambient vibe for reading. It is situated in a nostalgic quiet street with typical Shanghai-style residences and many publishing houses. It is a reading café, rather than a bookshop, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own books. 

I set off from my hotel armed with my Chinese translation, which would allow me to get a cab:

Han Yuan Book Store 漢源書店

27 Shaoxing Road, Luwan District

27紹興路，盧灣區

 

When I arrived at the reading rooms, I immediately noticed the traditional architecture and relaxed vibe of the people around the area.  Walking in, I was hit by warm air (as it is freezing outside) and ambient French music playing from a gramophone. I immediately fell in love with the place. There was a grand piano also, with lots of curved carved wooden bookshelves and delicately dressed tables where you could have tea or coffee, whilst reading. The interior of this gorgeous place also includes old furniture and antiques from owner Erh's own collection, including antique tea sets, paintings, lamps, cameras, bibles and other aged books.

Whilst I was here I had a lovely cup of ‘English’ tea and a cucumber filled toasted sandwich, which I thought was rather quaint in the middle of China! I also met a new friend here, a clever Australian gent called Henry. He said he could speak a bit of Chinese but explained that one of his parents was from Taiwan and the other Australia. He was working on a research project about Chinese foreign policy. It sounded very interesting and we agreed to try and catch up over weekend. 

I had read that this place was designed for people with a Xiao Zi (pretty Bourgeoisie) lifestyle, as it encourages indulgence in ‘me time’.  I loved it and found it a lovely place to relax. I will definitely be returning!