Nui-katsu: The Japanese Trend Of Bringing Plushie Toys Out To Have Fun

If you’ve ever felt like the plushies in your house deserve to see and be seen by the world, you're not alone. In Japan, there’s a wholesome trend called nui-katsu AKA living with plushies. It’s short for nuigurumi katsudou, which translates to “plushie activities”.

Nui-katsu is all about taking your stuffed toys out and snapping photos of them in picturesque settings like a café. It’s especially popular among those who want to post publicly on social media while keeping their faces off-camera, letting their plushies be a stand-in for themselves.

This trend is a fun way to add a unique touch to your photos, and brings a little whimsy to everyday life.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

The Perfect Plush Toy for Nui-katsu: Urupocha-chan Plush

Of course, not just any plushie will do. You’ll want one that is small enough to carry around with you, photogenic enough to pop in photos, and for bonus points, nostalgic - like a classic Disney character. And when it comes to Disney merch, Japan always goes above and beyond. Their designs are next-level adorable, simply kawaii-fied to perfection! And the good news is, some of Disney Store Japan’s exclusive merchandise is now available right here in Singapore via Disney Store Singapore.

One that’s practically made for nui-katsu is the Urupocha-chan collection. These palm-sized plushies ($15.90 each) can easily slip into your handbag and even sit upright on their own - ideal for snapping shots of them “enjoying” your meal.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

These petite plushies are irresistibly squishable thanks to their chubby, rounded shapes and ultra-soft texture. Then there are the little details like their shiny, button-like eyes that spark cute aggression (in the best way).

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

There are currently 14 characters to choose from, including Disney favourites like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and even more that will soon be joining the line-up!

Take Winnie the Pooh and his friends out for brunch, let Chip and Dale motivate you studying or working at the library, or lounge with Stitch and Angel for a people-watching session. 

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

You can even get your friends in on the nui-katsu trend! Have them bring their own Urupocha-chan plush toys and snap adorable group photos of your little squad hanging out.

And if you’re already swooning from the cute overload, just wait till you see the full range of Disney Store Japan exclusives available online via Disney Store Singapore.

Elevate Your Bag Game: Plush Keychains

If you prefer your plush toys with a little more functionality, check out Disney Store Japan Plush Keychains. These come with a gold-tone keyring and lobster clasp so you can clip them onto your bag, but they’re also designed to sit upright when not in use.

Most of the designs have a shy, innocent demeanor in soft hues that make them all the more endearing. The Sitting Plush Keychains are styled with a tilted head and one hand raised to the mouth, almost like they’re reacting with a bashful “Ehhh?!” or “Sugoi!” in classic Japanese fashion.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

With over 20 characters to choose from, there’s something for every aesthetic and mood.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

Channel demure and mindful energy with Marie ($22.90) from The Aristocats, or embrace your cheeky side with Thumper ($22.90) from Bambi. 

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

And then there’s Dumbo ($22.90), one of the most irresistible designs in the range thanks to his oversized ears and bashful pose.

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

And for fans of the “more is more” approach, have both Jaq ($25.90) and Gus ($25.90) from Disney’s Cinderella II: Dreams Come True, on your tote for a kawaii statement. This mischievous duo will be launching on Disney Store Singapore on 20 June.

For Bigger Hugs: Stitch Day Medium Plush

Looking for a plushie that you can really hold tightly in your arms? Here’s your new cuddle buddy: Stitch Day Medium Plush ($45.90).

Photo from GirlStyle Singapore

This large and fluffy plush toy has the cutest facial expression while sipping on a baby bottle - feels like having your own li’l Stitch at home! It’s part of the new Stitch Day collection, just launched today, 13 June, that also has plush keychains, a shopping bag, bath mat, face towel and more.

Where to Shop Disney Store Japan Merchandise

For a limited time, Disney Store Singapore is offering free delivery on orders over $70. It’s your sign to start (or expand) your plushie and keychain collection with a few more Disney friends.

Feeling inspired to hop on the nui-katsu trend? Shop the Urupocha-chan Plush and more Disney Store Japan merchandise on disneystore.sg. To get a first look at new arrivals that drop every week, follow them on Instagram @DisneyStoreSG.

This post is brought to you by Disney Store Singapore.