Source: CCTV.com

07-02-2008 09:13

A group of Chinese mainland tourists will soon inaugurate a new weekend charter air service between the Mainland and Taiwan. The first group on this newly agreed service, heads off, on July fourth. Taiwan is renowned for its natural scenery. But local culture and arts are indispensable to the Taiwan experience. So today we're gonna take a look at Taiwan's distinctive cultural ambience.

You may never think of walking into a bookstore at midnight,  unless you're in Taipei. (Photo: CCTV.com)

You may never think of walking into a bookstore at midnight, unless you're in Taipei. Eslite, is one of the largest bookstore chains in Taiwan. Its stores attract a lot of who like to go out at night, but who prefer to spend their time in a bookstore.

Eslite was the first to set up 24-hour store openings on the island. The innovation grew out of the closure of Eslite's first shop, back in 1995. The store, on Dunhua South Road was moving to a new location. The owner launched a farewell sale, that went on, uninterrupted for days. The store remained open. Readers loved it. The reaction was so enthusiastic, Eslite established an instant tradition and began 24-hour-a-day operations.

Books are not the all Eslite has to offer. The stores have a cozy reading atmosphere.

The interior design is very accommodating. There are staged areas where people can sit and read. They can have a coffee at the Eslite Cafe, while enjoying a book.

Eslite has over 50 stores across Taiwan. Each has its own unique attraction. Some stores extend the bookstore service by adding a theatre and art gallery.