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An inter-city train runs between Shaoxing and Ningbo. [Photo/IC]

Starting this week, residents in Shaoxing and Ningbo can use mobile payment apps or citizen cards to take a train between the two cities, local media outlets reported on March 18.

"Now, taking a bullet train between Shaoxing and Ningbo is as convenient as taking a subway," said Ni Pengjiong, a staff member of Shaoxing Rail Transit.

He said that rail transport operators in the two cities are working together to offer passengers more payment choices when buying an inter-city train ticket. Locals can use their citizen cards, while expats can search for "Shaoxing inter-city train" in Alipay or WeChat.

"I got here at 7:56 am and paid with my citizen card," said a Ningbo resident surnamed Wu. "I visited Lu Xun Native Place and Anchang Ancient Town. It was a fulfilling and convenient trip."

In September 2019, the municipal government of Shaoxing announced plans to strengthen participation in the integration of the Yangtze River Delta region by developing connections with Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shanghai.

According to Shaoxing Rail Transit, inter-city trains now connect Shaoxing, Hangzhou, and Ningbo, transporting over 2,000 passengers per day.