Whether you’re a die-hard bookworm, a casual reader, or someone who simply loves dreamy interiors, aesthetic bookstores in KL are the perfect spots to wander, relax, and feed your soul. Kuala Lumpur isn’t just about food and skyscrapers—this city is also home to charming book havens that double as design gems.

From cozy indie spaces to repurposed cultural hubs, here’s your ultimate list of the most aesthetic bookstores in KL that you absolutely need to visit.

1. Riwayat Bookstore – A Rustic Aesthetic Bookstore in KL’s Chinatown

 

Image Source: RiwayatBookstore

Riwayat is the kind of place you stumble into and instantly feel like you’ve discovered a secret. Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, this indie bookstore offers a mix of thoughtful reads, rich character, and a quiet ambiance that feels worlds away from the city’s usual buzz. It’s small but soulful, with a warm rustic interior that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.

The books here lean toward literature, regional writing, philosophy, and Malaysian history—perfect if you’re in the mood for something meaningful and off the beaten path. There are also zines, rare finds, and self-published works you won’t see in mainstream shops.

Why it’s aesthetic: Exposed brick walls, antique wooden shelves, moody lighting, and vintage decor elements like typewriters and handwritten tags create a nostalgic, film-like atmosphere. It feels like a bookish time capsule.

Try this: Climb up to the loft-style mezzanine for a peaceful corner with beautiful natural light filtering in from the upper windows. It’s a perfect reading and photo spot.

Address: 34, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Daily | 11:00am – 7:00pm

2. BookXcess @ RexKL – Aesthetic Bookstores Must-Visit in KL

Image Source: 1000libraries

Housed in the iconic RexKL building—a former cinema turned cultural hub—BookXcess brings a creative, immersive spin to the bookstore experience. With towering book tunnels, neon-lit corners, and maze-like aisles, it’s a must-visit not just for readers, but also for anyone into art, architecture, or interior aesthetics.

The space blends industrial vibes with playful design. Expect high ceilings, exposed beams, and art installations scattered throughout. The selection is vast—fiction, children’s books, coffee table titles, and even discounted gems. Plus, it’s open late, making it an unexpected but super cool nighttime hangout.

Why it’s aesthetic: Think floor-to-ceiling book tunnels, spiraling shelves, raw textures, and soft spotlights that give every corner its own unique vibe. It’s a visual feast with endless angles to shoot from.

Try this: Don’t miss the signature tunnel of books—arguably the most photographed corner of the place. Go at golden hour for that warm glow seeping through the entrance.

Address: Second floor, at RexKL, Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Daily | 10:00am – 10:00pm

3. Lit Books – A Minimalist Aesthetic Bookstore Just Outside KL

Image Source: LitBooks

Lit Books is a quiet literary oasis tucked away in Petaling Jaya. Founded by two former journalists with a deep love for good storytelling, the bookstore specializes in English-language literary fiction, non-fiction, and titles you might not find elsewhere in KL. Every book on their shelves feels carefully chosen—and that care is reflected in the vibe of the space.

With Scandinavian-inspired design, soft lighting, and curated displays, it’s equal parts bookstore and retreat. The staff are passionate and always ready to give recommendations that feel like warm personal notes.

Why it’s aesthetic: The minimalist interiors—clean white walls, custom shelves, and neutral tones—create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Pops of color come from book covers, indie artwork, and little touches like hanging plants or handwritten blurbs.

Try this: Ask about their book blind dates. These mystery reads come wrapped in kraft paper with only a few clever clues scribbled on the front. They make for great gifts or just a fun surprise for yourself.

Address: 3rd Floor, Tropicana Avenue, 12, Persiaran Tropicana, Petaling Jaya
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun | 1:00pm – 7:00pm
Closed on Mondays

4. Junk Bookstore – A Vintage Treasure Trove Among KL’s Most Aesthetic Bookstores

Image Source: Junk Book Store (The Biggest Secondhand Bookstore)

If you love the scent of old books and the joy of unexpected finds, Junk Bookstore will be your happy place. This decades-old KL institution is stacked—literally—with secondhand treasures. There’s little in the way of aesthetic styling here, but the pure chaos of the space somehow adds to its character.

Every corner is filled with paperbacks, hardcovers, magazines, and vintage oddities. Books are piled on the floor, crammed into shelves, and sometimes stacked to the ceiling. It’s a place you explore with your hands, your eyes, and a sense of literary adventure.

Why it’s aesthetic: It’s aesthetic in a beautifully messy, cinematic kind of way. Think faded covers, handwritten pricing, retro signage, and aisles that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a Studio Ghibli film.

Try this: Set aside a good hour or two. You’ll lose track of time digging through titles, but that’s half the fun. Look out for out-of-print editions and unexpected gems.

Address: 78, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon–Sat | 10:00am – 6:00pm
Closed on Sundays

And there you have it,  4 Aesthetic Bookstores in KL

Whether you’re hunting for your next great read, on a quiet solo date, or just need a fresh spot for your weekend stroll, these beautiful bookstores in KL have something special to offer. Each one invites you to slow down, explore, and lose yourself in stories—both on the page and in the atmosphere.

So go ahead, light up your feed with a little bookish magic—and don’t forget to tag us @citykaki.life when you post your favorite find!

Also read: 8 Aesthetic Mosques in Kuala Lumpur