Being a woman in China is getting harder. But in Chengdu, female-only spaces are flourishing

The socially relaxed city has seen a cautious feminist revival despite authorities’ growing alarm at women who shun traditional roles In a small, unassuming bookstore in south-west China, a discreet community of women dream of a more equal future. Here in Chengdu, 42-year-old Shen Shen runs one ...

Source: [Guardian International](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/10/chengdu-female-only-spaces-china-women-feminist-revival)