Chongqing's compound stores lure young from malls

Huang Li, a 37-year-old cafe owner in Jiazhou Garden, had an ambitious plan to transform the compound into the most artistic of its kind in Chongqing after seeing the upsurge of visitors following the optimization of COVID-19 controls.

Her idea gained immediate support from 11 shops in the compound, including clothing stores and restaurants.

"The increase in visitors speaks volumes for the fact that we are on track," Huang said.

Another shop located in a compound in Chongqing's Jiangbei district known as the "Anonymous Bookstore" has recently intrigued youngsters in pursuit of food for thought.

Mo Bi, its 33-year-old owner, worked in the real estate sector until seven years ago. She admitted that it is an adventure to run a bookstore.

The everyday routine can become somewhat trivial, and she has had to grapple with the challenge of surviving on a smaller income.

Fortunately, the rent in the compound is far lower than in malls and on shopping streets, and the store's popularity has grown beyond her expectations.

Mo's books are niche. She generally stocks the kind she enjoys reading herself, such as titles about feminism, but to her surprise, they have attracted like-minded youngsters.

"Many books have been snapped up since Spring Festival," she said.

One of the store's regulars said: "There are so many books here you don't normally see, it's a real feast for the eyes. I love reading in spaces like these, so full of life."

Mo organizes discussions and other activities for her customers, and some end up staying into the small hours.

"When I see readers losing themselves in my books, I feel that all my work and effort have been worth it," Mo said.

Xinhua