Can building blocks capture a journey?
Absolutely.
We’re used to freezing memories with photos and sending postcards to mark our travels. But now, there’s a more tangible way to preserve those moments—by building them.
With this special edition, you won’t need a map or GPS to begin your journey. All you need is a familiar childhood friend—The Teddy Bear.
Penrose has teamed up with Teddy to bring the warmth of companionship into a buildable world: four cities, four iconic sceneries—from the tiled alleys of Chengdu to the sunlit lighthouse in Shantou; from the glowing night of Hongya Cave in Chongqing to the snow-laced cathedral of Harbin.
Each destination is lovingly recreated in a suitcase-sized diorama. These aren’t just miniature landmarks; they’re physical snapshots of emotion and memory.
Unbox it, and you’re there. Turn on the lights, and the world comes alive. This isn’t a whirlwind sightseeing tour—it’s a slow, tactile “memory map” that comes together piece by piece at your fingertips.
Let’s Unbox It
Unboxings are nothing new, but Penrose’s Teddy Bear City Tour Series offers packaging with a thoughtful twist.
Each box’s color palette reflects its city’s personality. For example, the “Snowbound Sofia” edition features an icy blue theme, echoing Harbin’s winter charm.
The box includes an official licensing logo on the bottom-right corner and comes with a security code and replacement part request ID on the base. So don’t toss that box just yet!
What’s inside:
l Two numbered parts bags (1 & 2)
l LED light and battery case
l Acrylic background panel
l Instruction manual + after-sales card
Building Experience
All four sets share a consistent structure: a vintage suitcase shell, a miniature landmark scene, and a themed Teddy Bear minifigure. The build process is satisfying, offering a rich variety of techniques.
Each set takes about 2.5 hours to complete and is moderately challenging. The division between Bag 1 and Bag 2 could be more refined, but overall it’s manageable.
The build breaks down into four key sections:
Outer Frame: Classic suitcase structure with stacked plates. SNOT techniques (Studs Not On Top) add dimensional detail and visual texture.
Drawer: Although there’s no actual track, smooth tiles reduce friction, making it easy to slide in and out. The handle uses a clever inverted build technique.
Landmark Scene: Each cityscape uses SNOT for walls, trees, and fine details—like Harbin’s snow-covered pine or Chengdu’s stone walls—creating impressive complexity.
Decoration: Most details rely on stickers rather than printed pieces, which may disappoint some, but still falls within acceptable limits for this style of product.
Four Cities, Four Vibes
Stop 1: Chengdu
Chengdu is synonymous with leisure, buzz, and a strong street culture. This set draws from those familiar cues—mahjong tiles, tiled roofs, bamboo groves, pandas—and turns them into a charming mini-scene.
From Kuanzhai Alley to the IFS panda sculpture and bamboo-lined walkways, each detail brings the city’s cozy pace to life.
Highlights:
IFS Panda Sculpture: Instantly recognizable with its black-and-white brick build.
Kuanzhai Alley: Archways and brick walls authentically mimic Chengdu’s traditional streets.
Bamboo: Layered green rods simulate lush groves for a full, natural composition.
Teddy Minifig: Dressed in a panda-themed tee, holding an ice cream, with an adorable panda cap—pure local flair.
The LED lights are subtly tucked behind the archway and panda sculpture, casting a soft glow that enhances the acrylic background’s depth.
Stop 2: Shantou
In contrast to bustling cities, Shantou—especially Nan’ao Island—offers a quiet, wind-swept escape. Its lighthouse, coconut palms, and tranquil sunrise create a perfect, slow-travel vibe.
This build centers around the themes of nature, ocean breeze, and morning calm. Among all four, it best captures the feel of a peaceful getaway.
Highlights:
Changshanwei Lighthouse: The centerpiece, built with elegant proportions and fine detail, commands attention.
Coconut Trees: Sloped green bricks recreate palm fronds and bring coastal character.
Scenic Marker Sign: A tiny road sign reading “Tropic of Cancer · Must-Visit” adds a touristy flourish.
Teddy Minifig: White hat, pastel tee, vintage camera in hand—looks just like a beachside traveler.
When lit, the scene softly mimics sunrise, making it the most atmospheric of the four.
Stop 3: Chongqing
Hongya Cave was the natural pick to represent Chongqing—not only is it iconic, but it also showcases the city’s layered structure and bustling personality.
Stilt houses, multi-level buildings, and vertical street layouts are packed into a single suitcase-sized diorama, distilling Chongqing’s signature “3D urban maze” aesthetic.
Highlights:
Hongya Cave Architecture: A mix of blocks and slopes form layered terraces; SNOT builds replicate windows, roofs, and overhangs in rich detail.
Golden Plaque: “Hongya Cave” in gold characters on red background grabs the eye.
Greenery: Side plants add color balance and depth.
Teddy Minifig: White tee, green baseball cap, camera at the ready—relatable and cheerful.
The lighting is placed between the buildings and the backdrop, illuminating both façade and background for a layered, night-market glow.
Stop 4: Harbin
When people think of Harbin, they picture snow, cathedrals, and fairy-tale winters. This set blends the majestic Saint Sophia Cathedral with the festive sparkle of the Ice and Snow World.
Artfully combining Byzantine architecture with frosty magic, this is perhaps the most visually elegant of the entire series.
Highlights:
Saint Sophia Cathedral: A compact but high-recognition replica with dark green domes and golden spires.
Ice World Details: Snowflake Ferris wheel evokes the playfulness of Harbin’s winter festivals.
Snowman & Pines: A classic red-hat snowman and evergreens complete the cozy winter scene.
Teddy Minifig: Dressed in ski gear with snow goggles and snowboard—ready for the slopes. Bonus: the figure can stand on the snowboard!
Lighting here adds a crystal-clear glow, creating a dreamlike snow-globe ambiance.
Bonus Feature
The drawer isn’t just decorative—it’s functional! Perfect for storing leftover pieces or small items. A charming touch that blends display and practicality.
Product Details
Brand: inbrixx
Series: Teddy Bear City Tour
Set Names: “Tranquil Tiles” (Chengdu) / “Tropic Echo” (Shantou) / “Starlit Steps” (Chongqing) / “Snowbound Sofia” (Harbin)
Set Numbers: 881311 / 881312 / 881310 / 881313
Figure: One themed Teddy Bear minifig per set
Recommended Age: 6+
The Meaning of Travel
Travel isn’t just about checking off destinations on a map—it’s about leaving a piece of yourself behind and carrying something back with you.
Some people capture memories with photos. Others write them down. And some—
Build them, one brick at a time.
Penrose’s Teddy Bear City Tour Series may be compact, but it holds the heart of four cities and the quiet joy of hands-on creation.
So… where to next?
No rush. Start with the places your fingertips have already been.