Finding the cutest toys in Shanghai: We go soft for revolutionary pigs

Forget a comfy mattress, silky sheets and the feathers of geese -- if you ask me, invariably the key to a good night’s sleep is having something, or someone, to snuggle up to. The perfect prescription -- a cuddly toy. I took a stroll around town with three cute aficionados: Jia and Senng Hua from South Korea and Julie from China, in search of the absolute cutest plush toys in Shanghai.

Julie could BYO her own sketches if she wanted.

Design your own toy made from Tibetan yak down or “yashmere” at Shokay when you bring in a photo or drawing of your future buddy. Within ten days, the customized cuddler will be ready to see its new home.

“I love how soft the material feels,” said Julie while squeezing a replica of the mammoth-looking animal. “And in Tibet, the symbol on this blanket represents harmony.” 

Shokay, Taikang Lu, Lane 274, No. 9, near Ruijin Er Lu 泰康路274弄9号, 近瑞金二路

Jia: "I really like the long arms and legs because you can swing it around."

Nothing’s wrong with good old-fashioned cotton and buttons.

Funny shaped pillow-like dolls (RMB 88-128) by local designer Rabbit and Hare can be found wedged between flower printed dresses and pint-sized button downs at children’s clothing store Chou-Chou Chic. 

“This one is a little strange looking, but I like it because it’s unique,” said Jia while untangling the square guy’s (right) limbs.

“I really like the long arms and legs because you can swing it around.”

Let’s hope that Jia doesn’t plan on getting a pet anytime soon.

Chou-Chou Chic, No. 162-8 Shaanxi Nan Lu, near Changle Lu 陕西南路162-8号, 近长乐路

The power of the pig Senng Hua appears overcome by cuteness at esydragon.

Step into esydragon on Taikang Lu and be welcomed by a tub of revolution pigs (RMB 70) sporting green Mao suits circa 1949. Separating the girl piggies from the boy piggies are blonde curls poking out from the workers cap. 

“I really like the red stars on their hats because they’re very Chinese,” said Senng Hua who couldn’t get enough of the toy. “I really like pigs too. They’re so cute!”

esydragon, Taikang Lu, Lane 248, No. 51, near Ruijin Er Lu 泰康路248弄51号1楼, 近瑞金二路