Finally an excuse to switch to a color e-reader! Carry your own personal library everywhere — why has Kobo become the talk of the book fair?

Surrounded every day by endless short videos and updates, how long has it been since you last truly settled down and finished a book? In this fast-paced city, more women are getting into the habit of pulling out a lightweight e-reader during their MTR commute or at a coffee shop on the weekend, enjoying a moment of solitude. If you’d like to cultivate this lovely new habit too, this summer is the perfect time to get started.

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The annual 2026 Hong Kong Book Fair will take place from July 15 to 21, and e-book giant Rakuten Kobo is bringing plenty to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this year. Along with its latest range of color e-readers, the brand has transformed its booth into a “ding ding” tram inspired by Hong Kong’s local culture. Popular DJs Ah Zheng and Elsie will also make surprise appearances as one-day store managers, making it one of the fair’s most anticipated highlights for trend-conscious book lovers.

Step into the “ding ding” tram reading space

Inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic urban culture, the brand has incorporated elements of the beloved classic tram into its booth this year, creating a photo spot that combines a comfortable reading atmosphere with local character. The design perfectly conveys the brand’s warm vision of “bringing reading into everyday life.” Beyond the detailed tram design, you’ll also spot the adorable Rakuten mascot Okaimono Panda around the booth. Whether you’re taking photos beside the tram or trying out different models in the hands-on area, you’ll feel a cultural familiarity unique to Hong Kong.

How do color e-readers compare, and how do you choose one?

If you’re still unsure about entering the paperless world of e-books, take a look at the latest market trends first. Color E Ink e-paper technology has made major advances in recent years, leaving behind the dim displays of the past for soft, warm color that’s easy on the eyes. It’s ideal for reading fashion magazines, illustrated books, manga, and travel guides. Compared with other e-reader brands, Kobo offers an especially extensive catalog of Traditional Chinese titles, while its system is deeply integrated with public-library borrowing, making it highly practical. At the book fair, the brand is showcasing its full product lineup, so visitors can compare different sizes and features in person. These two featured color models, in particular, come highly recommended by the editors as everyday companions:

Color e-reader pick 1: Kobo Clara Colour for a lighter commute

For office workers who squeeze onto the MTR every day, portability is the top consideration. This model features a 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 color display and is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it easy to hold and read with one hand. Its water-resistant design and built-in Kobo Audiobooks let you enjoy books anytime, anywhere, even on rainy days or aboard a moving train. It’s well suited to everyday reading and commuting.

Color e-reader pick 2: Kobo Libra Colour for handwritten notes

If you’re a devoted reader or like to write and sketch as you read, this model with a 7-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 color display is the one for you. Its streamlined, ergonomic design and popular physical page-turn buttons make it especially comfortable to hold. Most appealing of all, it’s compatible with the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing you to take handwritten notes in color and highlight key passages directly on the screen. It brings reading and note-taking together, instantly doubling your efficiency at work and while studying.

Limited-time book fair offers

As a style-conscious shopper who knows how to make every dollar count, you’ll want to look out for the best e-reader deals at the fair. The brand’s limited-time discounts and gift items are impressively generous. First, selected e-readers purchased on-site are up to HK$ 411 off. Add a magnetic protective cover at the same time for an additional HK$ 60 off.

If work keeps you from visiting the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, the brand is also offering the same promotions on its official website. During the book fair, enter the limited-time promo code HKBF26 when purchasing e-books on the official website to receive 21% off all e-books. It’s time to finally clear out that wish list you’ve had your eye on!

Rakuten Kobo @ 2026 Hong Kong Book Fair
Dates: July 15-21, 2026
Location: Hall 3, Booth 3F-F16, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai

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