On October 18, a cultural journey that transcended borders unfolded in Dongguan's Shipai Town, where around 20 international talents and their families from the U.S., Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, Italy, Sri Lanka, and the UK explored the heart of China's art toy capital. 

This event marked the launch of the "Dongguan City Tours for the Expat Community 2025" series, organized by the Dongguan People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. The program aims to deepen cultural exchanges, foster a sense of belonging among foreign professionals living in Dongguan.

Part 01 Toy City

The first stop took visitors to ToyCity, a creative powerhouse behind some of China's most popular original toy IPs, including Laura, MONBOO, Mr. PA, and dululu. Guests were especially intrigued by Mr. PA, an AI-powered interactive plush toy affectionately called "Xiao Pa." Covered in soft fur and able to hold conversations in English, it quickly became a star of the day.

"I like it! It's good." A five-year-old boy from Sri Lanka couldn't let go of his new friend, chatting nonstop with Xiao Pa and laughing with delight. "That's the first time he's ever talked to a toy that can reply," his mother Chathuri Weeratunge from Sri Lanka laughed, "It was such a fun experience, we actually want to explore more!"

"It's amazing, I didn't expect toys could be this smart and expressive," said a participant from Malaysia. "You can really feel how Dongguan blends technology and creativity in such a fun way."

Part 02 China Art Toys Center

Inside the China Art Toys Center, the families wandered among rows of creative designs, co-branded IPs, and original Dongguan-made figures. 

Here, they also learned about how Dongguan's art toy industry has grown from small workshops into a global cultural force, recently making waves at Animation and Trendy Toys Exhibition in Tokyo.

For Anthony, an Australian teacher living in Dongguan, the tour revealed a side of the city he had never known. "We've lived here for a while, but had no idea Dongguan was the heart of the toy world," he said. "Last week we saw the mascots for the 15th National Games in Guangzhou, and today we learned they were made right here, that's so cool."

His daughters were equally delighted. "Learning about different cultures through toys is pretty cool," said Isabella, while her sister Natasha added that the visit made her "want to collect them all."

Part 03 Animation Fair Center

Dongguan Animation Fair Center, known as China's largest art toy selection hub, offered another visual feast. "It's not just for kids, in the world of toys, adults fall in love just as easily," Francesca from the UK said with a smile. "I'd describe Dongguan's toy culture in one word, incredible!"

Her husband, Ajron, added: "It's all about creativity. You can feel that every figure here carries a story, something people can relate to and feel proud of."

According to Luo Weidong, Deputy Director of the Dongguan Foreign Affairs Bureau, the city has been expanding such cultural exchange events to help international residents experience Dongguan's dynamic transformation up close.

"Dongguan is not only known as a manufacturing powerhouse," Luo said. "It's also a city full of creative energy, youthful spirit, and cultural confidence. Through activities like this, we hope our international friends can see a more vibrant, imaginative Dongguan."

He added that similar exchange programs will continue, connecting international residents with Dongguan's innovation and culture through themed activities such as Smart Manufacturing, Basketball, Fashion Experiences, Culinary and Heritage Discoveries.