Hongya Study Introduction
Inspired by Chiang Wei-shui, over the past 20 years, this bookstore claims to be "the most active independent bookstore south of the Zhuoshui River", hosting more than a thousand lectures. From the authoritarian era to the digital age, the 10-square-meter Hongya Bookstore is filled with the ideals and persistence of its owner, Yu Guo-xin. The selection of books on its shelves is never swayed by commercial interests, and one can find a comprehensive collection of history and literature books from Chiayi and Taiwan, as well as books on literature, history, and philosophy. Yu Guo-xin believes that opening a bookstore can change the cultural atmosphere of the city, connect and promote cultural activities, and present meaningful local landscapes. As the digital age arrives, the print market faces significant challenges, and the future of physical bookstores is worrying, leading many bookstores to rely on food and merchandise to sustain their economy. Hongya Bookstore insists: it must continue to sell books to realize the true function of a bookstore. Inspired by the pioneer of Taiwan's democratic movement, Chiang Wei-shui, over the past 20 years since its establishment, the bookstore has held cultural lectures every Wednesday, totaling more than 1,200 sessions. The biggest draw among all lecturers is said to be Wu Nien-chen, with reports indicating that listeners lined up outside on the street. Image source: Chiayi City Government Tourism Bureau｜Photographer: Margaux
