Forest Books is a small independent bookstore located at 1748 Buchanan Street in San Francisco’s Japantown. It specializes in used, rare, and out-of-print books. The shop is owned and operated by Gregory Wood, who has run it for decades. Forest Books originally opened in the Mission District but moved to Japantown in 2013. The relocation brought the store closer to a community interested in Asian culture and allowed it to continue offering a carefully curated selection in a quieter, more affordable space. Most of its floor space is devoted to literature, philosophy, art, and social sciences.
Inventory and Specialties
Forest Books focuses on categories that are not always well covered by mainstream bookstores. Its inventory includes:
- Used and out-of-print titles across the humanities.
- Rare and collectible editions, including first editions and signed copies.
- Books on Eastern religion and philosophy, such as Buddhism, meditation, and Zen.
- Art, literature, and social science works with an emphasis on quality and depth rather than popularity.
The selection is curated by the owner. This means it changes regularly and tends to reflect his areas of interest. Customers will not find large quantities of new bestsellers but instead a mix of overlooked or specialized books.
Owner and Service
Gregory Wood is closely involved in the day-to-day running of the store. He is known for being approachable and willing to discuss books with visitors. Regular customers value his recommendations and knowledge of the stock. Because the shop is small and independent, interactions tend to be more personal than in larger retail chains.
Forest Books occasionally hosts Zen meditation sessions and other small gatherings connected to literature and spirituality. These events reflect the store’s focus on Eastern philosophy and offer a way for the local community to engage beyond book buying. The shop has a steady base of regulars but also attracts visitors who are exploring Japantown and looking for an independent bookstore experience.
Practical Details
- Hours: Typically open afternoons and evenings, roughly 12 pm to 8 pm most days
- Pricing: Ranges from inexpensive used books to more costly rare and signed editions.
- Browsing: The store is designed for slow, careful browsing. Shoppers are encouraged to take their time.
- Contact: Because the inventory changes frequently, it can be helpful to call or email in advance if you are searching for a specific title.
