Labubu alert: elves turn into soccer fans in Houhai

Until August 21, visitors to Shenzhen’s bustling Houhai area will be greeted by six larger-than-life installations featuring Pop Mart’s beloved Labubu elf tribe.

Six Labubu installations welcome visitors in Houhai, Nanshan District. Photos by Wang Haolan unless otherwise stated

At the lakeside platform in Talent Park, a giant silver vintage hairdryer emblazoned with Labubu motifs stands at the center of the display, seemingly blowing warm air toward a relaxed Labubu lounging on a fluffy white cloud. With its eyes closed and a dreamy, contented expression, the elf appears to be basking in pure bliss, while smaller clouds are scattered across the platform.

The lakeside platform in Talent Park.

According to creator Kasing Lung’s lore, Labubu belongs to a forest-dwelling elf clan, whose female members are led by a single male chief named Zimomo. These charmingly quirky creatures are known for their nine teeth, pointed ears, and tailless forms.

At the circular lawn in the northern part of the park, visitors can find Zimomo in a playful hair salon setting.

The waterfall plaza at MixC Shenzhen Bay. From Shekou News

Meanwhile, the waterfall plaza at MixC Shenzhen Bay has been transformed into a soccer pitch, where the elves, dressed in jerseys, are warming up for a match.

Inside a corridor of the shopping mall, another elf — fresh from a salon visit — admires its reflection in a mirror.

Over at the second-floor corridor of Houhai Plaza, two elves — one blonde, the other with a carrot-shaped head — stand hand in hand by a retro bus stop, as if waiting for a ride to the big game.

A Labubu elf is having its hair done.

At Haide Square in Coastal City, you’ll spot elves with wavy hair and polka-dot skirts, holding banners or speakers, ready to cheer on their favorite team.

Those who collect stamps from all six installations can redeem souvenirs and enter a lucky draw, with prizes including an Adidas soccer kit, a Lego World Cup trophy, or Labubu figurines.

A live performance at Talent Park. From Shekou News

The main stage at Talent Park will host a variety of live performances, including a jazz night, DJ parties, and light music concerts.

On July 19 — the evening before Qixi, also known as China's Valentine’s Day — a special concert will fill the air with romantic melodies.

Throughout the event, a night fair will offer a tempting selection of snacks, hamburgers, desserts, and drinks for visitors.