As the year draws to a close, designer toys in Shanghai are increasingly finding their way into exhibition spaces, shopping malls, and beverage stores, rather than remaining confined to retail display shelves.

One recent example is the Shanghai stop of the Crybaby special exhibition, which opened at M Factory in Gate M West Bund Dream Center. Presented by Pop Mart, the show marks Crybaby's first large-scale exhibition in China and its largest stop globally, attracting steady crowds since its debut.

Titled Letting Go… Holding On…, the exhibition brings together Crybaby, Crybunny, and Cryteddy for the first time. Spanning four floors and nearly 2,000 square meters, the venue is filled with immersive installations designed to encourage visitors to slow down, reflect, and unwind.

A standout feature is an 800-sq-m "tear ball pit", divided into three color zones symbolizing protection, courage, and freedom. The installation has quickly become a popular spot for visitors to rest, take photos, and engage with the exhibition.

Beyond exhibitions, Pop Mart is also extending its characters into daily consumption. Recently, its character Twinkle Twinkle partnered with tea brand Heytea for a global co-branded campaign. Featuring themed packaging, in-store decorations, and limited-edition merchandise, the collaboration adds visual and collectible elements to the purchasing experience.

Crybaby Special Exhibition: Shanghai

Open: Now until Jan 25

Where: M Factory, Gate M West Bund Dream Center, No 2266 Longteng Avenue

Sources: Shanghai Observer, Pop Mart, and official WeChat account of Xuhui district "xuhuifabu"