BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – A small second-hand bookstore tucked inside a narrow alley off Jalan Camplung Tanduk in Seminyak is quietly attracting attention from international visitors seeking a different side of Bali’s tourism scene.
Known as Oki’s Bookshop, the store operates daily from 10:00 to 17:00 WITA and offers a curated selection of used books at relatively low prices. Despite its discreet location, the shop has become a “hidden gem” among tourists exploring the area.
When visited on Sunday (April 12, 2026), the shop appeared unattended before its owner, Irwansyah Priadi, known as Oki arrived shortly after completing his midday prayer.
Oki, 47, said he has been running the second-hand bookstore for around 15 years. His business has relocated multiple times, from Legian to Seminyak, before settling in its current location about six months ago due to rising rental costs.
“Rental prices keep increasing, so I had to find a more affordable space. Selling books requires adjusting to the cost of rent,” he explained.
Like many small businesses, Oki’s shop faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that many similar bookstores closed during that period, while his business managed to continue operating.
“After COVID, many shops shut down. Before that, there were quite a lot, but now most are gone,” he said.
The store’s appeal lies not only in its quiet atmosphere but also in its pricing. Books are typically sold between IDR 75,000 and IDR 85,000, with some room for negotiation.
Oki sources his inventory from individual collectors and regular suppliers, gathering books weekly. His collection now includes around 1,000 titles, mostly in foreign languages such as English, along with selections in German, French, and Dutch. Indonesian-language books are available but limited.
“Most are foreign-language books. Indonesian readers tend to buy less, so the collection is dominated by English titles,” he noted.
Before placing books on the shelves, Oki checks each item to ensure it remains in good condition, focusing on completeness and physical quality. Basic care, he said, involves keeping books away from water and excessive heat.
Visitor numbers vary depending on the tourism season. During peak periods, the shop can receive up to 20 visitors per day, mostly international tourists.
“It depends on the number of tourists. When visitor arrivals are high, the shop gets busy. Otherwise, it’s quieter like this,” Oki added.
Despite its modest setup, Oki’s Bookshop has gained visibility through social media, with visitors sharing their experiences online. Many highlight the personal interaction and welcoming service as part of the appeal.
“Many people post about the shop on Instagram and TikTok. They say they enjoy the experience and the friendly service,” he said.
The presence of small, independent businesses like Oki’s Bookshop reflects a niche segment of Bali’s tourism landscape, where personalized experiences continue to resonate with visitors.