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Shapaley plush toys turn Tibetan cuisine into cultural keepsakes

Updated: 2025-08-12 (chinadaily.com.cn) Print

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A Tibetan noodles toy by Shapaley. [Photo/WeChat account: xzrbxinwen]

A new wave of Tibetan cultural creativity is winning hearts online — this time, in a plush form.

The Shapaley series, named after the Tibetan meat pie, has transformed traditional foods into charming stuffed toys, with one standout modeled after a bowl of Tibetan noodles.

Complete with soft noodle strands, detachable beef toppings and tiny chopsticks, the design is said to capture the warmth of everyday Tibetan life.

The brand aims to turn familiar flavors into portable memories. "We wanted Tibetan noodles to become a symbol of home — something people can carry with them," said Fu Shiyu, the product manager.

The team's designs blend humor and heritage. A zippered meat pie plush doubles as a coin purse, while the "flower in yak dung" toy reflects local wit. A Potala Palace plush has become a hit among tourists and the noodle plush aims to evoke the cozy feel of a street-side teahouse.

In just two weeks, over 1,000 units have sold both online and offline, with orders pouring in from across China. "People are asking for more designs — they finally see cultural products that speak to real Tibetan life," Fu said.

At a recent event, staff dressed as teahouse owners and used the plush toys to simulate noodle-making, delighting visitors. The brand now plans pop-up collaborations and a second product line to expand its playful take on Tibetan culture.

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